Feb 18/19: Winter Free Fishing Weekend

On Saturday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 19 everyone in Michigan – including residents and non-residents – can fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.

Those two days make up the Winter Free Fishing Weekend – an annual effort to promote Michigan ’s plentiful fishing opportunities. 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 these events include:

—-28th Annual Moose Lodge Fishing Derby at the AuTrain Lake Boat House in Munising, Feb. 18 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This event is free for those age 12 and under who attend with a registered adult. There are several categories for this derby – with cash prizes and trophies provided to the winners. Adults are required to pay a $10 entry fee.

There are many more events scheduled in various locations throughout the state. For more information about the 2012 Winter Free Fishing Weekend please visit www.michigan.gov/freefishing.

Michigan has been celebrating the Winter Free Fishing Weekend annually since 1994. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 36,000 miles of rivers and 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a natural match.