With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 36,000 miles of rivers and 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan is home to some of the world’s best fishing.

In an effort to increase awareness of Michigan’s great fishing, the state offers two weekends each year when residents and out-of-state visitors can get together and enjoy fishing – at no charge.

This year’s Winter Free Fishing Weekend is Feb. 14-15.

The free weekend is an excellent opportunity to introduce the joy of fishing to children and help pass down the tradition of Michigan fishing to the next generation of anglers. It is also a chance for even the most experienced angler to try winter fishing for the first time.

During the weekend, all fishing license fees will be waived, but all fishing regulations will still apply. Residents and visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland lakes and the Great Lakes for all species of fish.

To celebrate the free fishing weekend, organized activities have been scheduled across the state. These activities are coordinated by a variety of organizations, including local and state parks, constituent groups, schools, businesses and others.

For more details on Winter Free Fishing Weekend, including a list of activities across the state, visit www.michigan.gov/freefishing.

The website also includes useful information about ice fishing. An article titled “Fishing Technique: Ice Fishing, The Coolest Sport Around” is located under Related Resources.

Ice fishing can be dangerous for those who don’t follow safety procedures or who head out unprepared. To help make sure your time is a safe and enjoyable one, the article features sound safety advice and basics on getting started and commonly used equipment.

I encourage Southwest Michigan anglers – and those who have never gone fishing – to get out and take part in one of our state’s premier outdoor activities this weekend.

Please remember that having fun starts with being safe.

 

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents Southwest Michigan.