Winter Free Fishing Weekend starts Saturday

Ready for some outdoor fun with family and friends? Join in this winter’s Free Fishing Weekend – Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 17-18 – two full days when residents and visitors can fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.

It’s a great time to get out and explore: During Free Fishing Weekend, the DNR also waives the regular Recreation Passport entry fee that grants vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks and more than 1,300 DNR-managed boating access sites.

Michigan has celebrated Free Fishing Weekend every year since 1986 to promote awareness of the state’s fine fishing and vast aquatic resources. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, over 52,000 miles of rivers and streams and 10,899 inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a perfect match.

Before heading out, make sure you and your fishing buddies are prepared for changing winter weather. As always, brush up on our ice safety tips at Michigan.gov/IceSafety, too.

If you already have a fishing license, take someone new along for the fun and fish tales! Learn more at Michigan.gov/FreeFishing and get the most current fishing regulations at Michigan.gov/DNRRegs.