(MICHIGAN) - The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has announced that the first of its two annual Free Fishing Weekends for 2026 will take place Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15.
During the winter event, both residents and out-of-state visitors may fish for all species in Michigan's inland waters and Great Lakes without purchasing a fishing license.
The state also will waive the Recreation Passport fee for the weekend, allowing free vehicle entry into all 103 Michigan state parks and more than 1,000 DNR-managed boating access sites.
While license requirements are suspended, all other fishing regulations -- including size limits and daily bag limits -- remain in effect.
The DNR is urging anglers planning to fish on the ice to use extreme caution and review official ice safety guidelines, noting that ice conditions vary across the state.
Michigan's second Free Fishing Weekend of 2026 is scheduled for June 13-14 and will coincide with a "Three Free" weekend that also includes free ORV trail access and park entry.