‘I Caught a Fish This Big, and It Didn’t Cost a Thing’

With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, more than 11,000 inland lakes and tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams, it’s hard to find a better place to fish than Michigan.

And on one weekend this winter, anglers can get their fix for free and participate in special activities designed to promote Michigan’s fishing industry.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Fisheries Division has set aside Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15-16, 2014, as this year’s Winter Free Fishing Weekend. That means that during those two days, fees for fishing licenses will be waived for both residents and out-of-state visitors.

The waiver applies to all species of fish during their respective open seasons. All other regulations will still apply. Check out seasons here.

Local groups traditionally schedule activities around the free fishing weekends. During the 2013 winter event, more than 1,000 people participated in 18 events registered with the state agency, including fishing derbies, classes for beginners and winter recreation festivals. Many of the participants were adults and youths fishing for the first time, according to the DNR’s web site.

Groups and individuals planning 2014 Winter Free Fishing Weekend events should register them online. Resources to help with the planning are also available online. The online tool kit also includes outreach and public relations materials.

The Fisheries Division also offers free fishing during warmer weather. The 2014 Summer Free Fishing Weekend is June 7-8.