Cast A Line! It's Michigan Winter Free Fishing Weekend

DETROIT (WWJ) - On Saturday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 19 everyone in Michigan - including residents and non-residents - can fish without a license. It's part of the Winter Free Fishing Weekend - an annual effort to promote Michigan's plentiful fishing opportunities.

Finding a fishing spot should be easy, as Michigan is home to more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, over 11,037 inland lakes and 36,350 miles of rivers and streams, including 12,000 miles of trout waters.

But, just because you can fish for free, doesn't mean you can disregard the rules. All fishing regulations will still apply.

While many individuals and families will bundle up and head out to fish for free on their own, the DNR is pleased to share that there are numerous organized events scheduled throughout the state to celebrate the weekend as well. Some of the local events include:

• Free Fishing (and More!) at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg
  Feb. 18 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

This event will offer two winter activities, ice fishing and snowshoeing. If winter weather doesn't cooperate, alternative activities will be provided. This event is free, but a Recreation Passport is required for entry.

• Learn How to Fish at Brighton Recreation Area
  Feb. 19 from 2 to 5 p.m.

Come on out for this special one hour of ice fishing instruction and find out more about fishing in Michigan's State Parks. Fishing goodies will be given away to attendees. This event is free, but a Recreation Passport is required for entry.

• Free Fishing Weekend Special Event at Ionia Recreation Area
  Feb. 19 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Stop by and learn all about ice fishing at this special event during Free Fishing Weekend. Gear will be provided and cool fishing materials will be given away to attendees. This event is free, but a Recreation Passport is required for entry.

• Izaak Walton League Ice Fishing Derby at Seven Lakes State Park in Holly
  Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This event will consist of a free ice fishing class from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. and then a fishing derby from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. This event is free, but a Recreation Passport is required for entry.

The DNR is also holding activities at several other locations throughout the state. For a full list of activities, click here.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/freefishing.