This weekend everyone in the state can fish free of charge.
This weekend anyone in the state can try their luck catching the big one, without a license.
Saturday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 19, mark Michigan's Winter Free Fishing Weekend.
The annual effort promotes Michigan's plentiful fishing opportunities. While many individuals and families will bundle up and head out to fish for free on their own, the Department of Natural Resources is also hosting organized events throughout the state to celebrate the weekend.
In Antrim County, you can take part in the Ellsworth Shiverfest on the Breezeway. The celebration of winter will feature snowmobile, sledding and snowshoeing events. The Free Fishing Weekend promoted with ice fishing opportunities available. All children's events are free, but some activities will charge fees for participating adults.
In Newaygo County you can take part in the Dam to Dam Ice Fishing Contest. The annual event held on S. Corton Hardy Drive in Newaygo, raises money for Big Brothers Big Sisters. In addition to fishing, the event will have an Ice Golf Tournament, Ice Skating and two Fishing Experience Tents on the ice. It costs $5 per adult to participate and that includes a raffle ticket. Children under the age of 13 are free this year with a paying adult.
In Roscommon County the 2012 Higgins Lake Winterfest is taking place at the North Higgins Lake State Park.Admission for all events at the 2012 WinterFest are $5, children age five and under are free. On Saturday, February 18 there will be a Lake Fishing Derby at North Higgins Lake State Park from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
You can see a full list of the events by clicking here.
Michigan has been celebrating the Winter Free Fishing Weekend annually since 1994.
