Michigan DNR Hosts Free Fishing Weekend and Online Ice Fishing Q&A
Published: Monday, February 14, 2022 12:00 pm
Ready for a classic Michigan winter outdoor experience? How about the annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend, this year on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 19 and 20 – two full days for family and friends to fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.
Michigan has celebrated Free Fishing Weekend every year since 1986 as a way to promote awareness of the state’s world-class fishing and vast aquatic resources. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams, and 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a perfect match.
Before heading out to your favorite spot, make sure you and your fishing buddies are prepared for winter weather. Take a few minutes to review our ice safety tips at Michigan.gov/IceSafety, too.
If you already have a fishing license, the Winter Free Fishing Weekend is a great opportunity to introduce someone new to Michigan fishing. Who knows? They might just get hooked on this popular pastime!
Another bonus: During Free Fishing Weekend, the DNR waives the need for the Recreation Passport, usually required for vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks and more than 1,300 DNR-managed boating access sites.
Get more details on the weekend at Michigan.gov/FreeFishing. Brush up on current fishing regulations at Michigan.gov/DNRDigests.
Questions about ice fishing? Join Tuesday's Facebook Q&A.
How do I choose a good spot to fish? Live bait or artificial lures? Which is better, a hand auger or a power auger? What types of fish can I catch while ice fishing? How do I know if the ice is safe?
If you're new to winter fishing and have questions like these, join our experts for a Facebook Q&A on ice fishing, 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, on the DNR's Facebook page.
Christian LeSage, a biologist with the DNR's Aquatic Species and Regulatory Affairs Unit, and Scott Heintzelman, the DNR's Central Lake Michigan Management Unit manager, will answer your questions and share insights and tips to get you started. LeSage and Heintzelman will be joined by conservation officers from the DNR Law Enforcement Division, who will be available to provide information on regulations and safety.
tags: Dept of Natural Resources, Events, Fishing, Kids & Pets, Michigan
