Family Fishing Event with Grand Ledge Library

lschultz • June 14, 2022

On Saturday the 11th, MUCC, the Great Lakes Fisheries Trust, and the Grand Ledge Library partnered to hold a free fishing weekend for local families.

Over four hours, more than 30 youth and their parents learned the basics of casting, tackle/equipment selection and spent time fishing. Throughout the day, lots of laughter was heard along the banks of the Grand River.
Participants ranged in age from five to 12 years old. Casting practice was the most arduous portion of each session. The kids practiced underhand casting to avoid tangles and aimed at grass fish targets and hula-hoops. As the youth practiced, parents and grandparents volunteered their “tips” and encouragement.

Each group spent about 30 minutes fishing. But before they could hit the river, they had to learn how to bait their hooks. We used redworms and each kid got a lesson in baiting their hook. After lots of “oohs” giggles and uncertainty, worms were on hooks and bobbers started hitting the water.

At the end of the day, the harvest was minimal, apparently, this stretch of river is better known for carp fishing than panfish, but we still landed a few sunfish and rock bass.

Overall there were substantially more smiles made than fish caught. Some days that is what it is all about. We would like to thank the Great Lakes Fisheries Trust for providing the funding for the program and the library for encouraging outdoor programming along with their summer reading program. After sending each kid home with their own new pole and tackle box, we are excited to hear from the families about their fishing adventures later this summer.

Recent Posts

On the Ground: Clean Up at Yates Park

By Olivia Triltsch • April 23, 2026
On Saturday, April 18, 2026, MUCC’s OTG program partnered with the Clinton River Watershed Council and Metro-West Steelheaders to host the annual Clinton River clean-up at Yates Park. Volunteers removed about 270 pounds of trash from the riverbanks and the surrounding watershed. Approximately 80.3 acres of fish and wildlife habitat were directly impacted by this project, in addition to improving local outdoor recreational opportunities. Cleaning up the watershed is critical for ensuring safe drinking water, safe recreation, and a clean habitat for fish and wildlife alike.

OTG Volunteers Needed in Crawford County Tree Plantings

By Olivia Triltsch • April 16, 2026
MUCC’s On the Ground (OTG) will be in the northern lower peninsula in late spring to improve habitat for wildlife. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, April 25th, from 8 AM to 12 PM and Saturday, May 3rd, from 9 AM to 2 PM to plant trees across Crawford County. These projects will take place rain or shine, except in the event of severe weather, so please dress accordingly. All registered volunteers will receive lunch and a free appreciation gift for their efforts.

White Oaks vs Red Oaks: Why Does It Matter?

By Olivia Triltsch • April 9, 2026
Oaks are a critical tree species for wildlife in Michigan as they provide food, cover, and long-term habitat in forests, field edges, and public lands. Both red oaks and white oaks are native to Michigan, but there are differences in management between the species, making an impact on conservation and hunting success. The growth patterns are important to understand when planning for land management due to variation in growth, acorn production (mast), and wildlife use.
More Posts