Bring On The Fish Stories: Michigan Free Fishing Weekend Returns This Weekend

Free Fishing Weekend is back this weekend (February 19-20) in Michigan.

Growing up, some of my favorite memories were spending weekends with my dad and my brother fishing on Sears Lake in Milford.

We would fish off a dock or take an old rowboat around the lake and catch all kinds of fish, including bluegill, perch, bass, crappie, catfish, and the occasional pike.

Even as an adult I still love fishing. A few years ago I caught this sailfish in Costa Rica.

Michigan Free Fishing Returns For 2022

Twice a year the state of Michigan allows Michiganders and out-of-staters to fish without a license. The normal cost of a fishing license is $26 so the savings can add up quickly.

During the free fishing weekend, you can access state parks and boating sites for free as well. A Recreation Passport is needed to enter these areas normally. All fishing rules and regulations still apply, so make sure you follow the rules.

What kind of fish can you catch in West Michigan?

There are more than 150 species of fish in Michigan, and almost all of them can be caught through the ice. Popular species when the ice freezes over include panfish, such as bluegill and perch, as well as northern pike, walleye, and various trout species.

Where Can You Fish In West Michigan?

Camp Lake

Cranberry Lake

Lime Lake

Long Lake

Reeds Lake

The Michigan DNR Has Some Cool Certificates You Can Print Out For A Kid's First Fish

My First Fish certificate

My First Fish photo certificate

You will have another chance this summer to take part in the Free Fishing Weekend on June 11-12.