West Shore Fishing Museum, located on the site of Charles and Aurora Bailey’s homestead and fishery, is committed to preserving and portraying fishing life on the West Shore of Green Bay in prehistoric, pioneer, and the modern eras.
The West Shore Fishing Museum is the restored home and fishery of Charles Bailey, who operated one of the area’s largest commercial fishing operations on this site from 1893 – 1950. Displays include the home, two exhibit buildings tracing fishing from prehistoric to modern times, and five commercial fishing boats including the completely restored gill net tug, Kate A. Bailey Park is located approx. 15 miles north of Menominee on M-35. Creation of the West Shore Fishing Museum began in 1997 by the Bailey Property Preservation Association. The all-volunteer Association works under the direction of Menominee County which owns the property and buildings.
Our museum has 23 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits, with more commercial fishing boats than any other museum in Michigan. We also have the largest collection of fishing gear on display. We have antiques and West Shore Museum merchandise available for purchase in our Gift Shop. Explore our groomed nature trails, a beautiful beachfront and picnic area. Our friendly docents are very knowledgeable with firsthand stories of commercial fishing life.
Admission is always free! Donations Welcome!
N5146 State Highway M-35, Menominee, MI 49858
Today | Closed |
Your donations, memberships and purchases from the gift shop help support our mission and reach our goals.
If you would like to become a member of the museum please contact us at
Celebrate the crafts and trades of bygone days! You'll be able to visit with weavers, spinners, wood carvers, a net mender, a blacksmith, and more. Leone's Garden will be open for a daylily walk with lilies for sale. The Zoom In food truck will be available for deep-fried deliciousness!
Cash raffle drawing at 3pm. Featuring: walking trails, ice cream treats, gift shop with antiques, and plant sale clearance.
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