LOVE & LURES: MICHIGAN’S FREE FISHING WEEKEND

 Photo: Michigan.org
by Lia Biondo, MUCC Policy Intern
An annual tradition, Michigan’s free fishing weekend is scheduled for February 14-15. All fishing license fees are waived for Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15. All other fishing regulations still apply.
This is a great occasion to spend Valentine’s Day out on the ice with that special someone! Michigan is home to 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, more than 11,000 inland lakes and tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams.
The goal of Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekend is to offer some of the finest freshwater fishing to those who may not regularly have that opportunity. Research shows that youth especially are suffering from not being able to enjoy the outdoors as much as past generations. If you know a child who has yet to experience the thrill of ice fishing, this weekend would be an excellent chance to “hook” them on the activity, free of charge!
Additionally, the free fishing weekend exposes an otherwise non-fishing public to the great work done throughout the year by our DNR Fisheries Division. Offering someone their first fishing opportunity can be a huge step in bridging the gap between knowledge and understanding. Those who have fished before are more likely to connect with the natural aquatic ecosystem and understand the rules and regulations that come with protecting that resource.
The next free fishing weekend is scheduled for the coming warmer months, on June 13 and 14, 2015.
To find Winter Free Fishing Weekend events in your area, check out the DNR’s official list of registered events by clicking HERE.
To find even more piers and fishing access locations, click HERE.