LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Jim Runestad reminded residents on Monday of a great opportunity to take advantage some favorite summertime activities this weekend at no cost.
“Michigan’s annual Summer Free Fishing Weekend is this Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9,” said Runestad, R-White Lake. “The opportunities for fishing are incredible. We have more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 36,000 miles of rivers, 11,000 inland lakes and a tremendous variety of fish species. And this weekend, they can all be fished for free.”
Runestad said residents and nonresidents alike can fish without a license on these two days, though all other fishing regulations still apply. Entry into state public boating access sites, state parks and recreation areas is free of charge.
Since 1986, Michigan has celebrated the free weekend as a way to promote awareness of the state’s vast aquatic resources and to give families a great chance to pass along the joy of fishing to the next generation.
The Summer Free Fishing Weekend concludes the Michigan Boating Week, an annual celebration of the great outdoor activities offered by the state. It is a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Michigan Waterways Commission and the Michigan Boating Industries Association.
The week-long event offers many opportunities to start boating, get back onboard or learn some new skills to use on the water. For more information, including a list of activities across the state, visit www.Michigan.gov/FreeFishing.
Runestad said Saturday and Sunday also mark one of the summer’s free ORV weekends, a time off-road enthusiasts can ride Michigan DNR-designated routes and trails without an ORV license or trail permit. Riders can find out more at www.Michigan.gov/ORVInfo.
To encourage visitors to visit a state park during the weekend, the state is waiving the regular Recreation Passport entry fee that grants vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks.
“This is yet another opportunity for residents to get out and enjoy Pure Michigan at no cost,” Runestad said.