Michigan's Free Winter Fishing Weekend is Feb. 15-16, 2025

Looking to get outside and catch some fish?

Heads up that one of Michigan's Free Fishing Weekends is on the way in February!

👇DISCOVER 58 FISHING RECORDS SET IN MICHIGAN👇

When is Michigan's Free Winter Fishing Weekend?

Michigan's Free Fishing Weekend is Saturday February 15 through Sunday February 16, 2025.

It's two full days when residents and visitors can fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.

During Free Fishing Weekend, the DNR also waives the regular Recreation Passport entry fee that grants vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks and more than 1,300 DNR-managed boating access sites.

Michigan has celebrated Free Fishing Weekend every year since 1986 to promote awareness of the state’s fine fishing and vast aquatic resources.

Before heading out make sure you're prepared for changing winter weather, and check out the DNR's ice safety tips here.

Already have a fishing license? You take someone new out with you. Find out more about Free Fishing Weekend here. Current fishing regulations you'll find here.

Michigan's 2025 Free Fishing Weekend dates

While the Winter Free Fishing Weekend is in February, there's another one in the summertime too!

UP NEXT: This Has Been Crowned Michigan’s Most Popular Attraction… And it’s Not a Lake

Michigan's Summer Free Fishing Weekend is June 7 and 8, 2025. It coincides with "Three Free" weekend, where residents and nonresidents can grab a fishing rod, ride the off-road trails and visit state parks and boating access sites - all free of charge.

Michigan's 58 Fishing Records: Species, Weight, Length, and Date

While fishing is considered a leisure sport, it can be incredibly competitive. From fishing tournaments to combo rod dock fishing, it's a sport that doesn't have age requirements to set records. All you need is a means to fish and measure your catch. According to LandBigFish.com, here's a look at the 58 fishing records set in Michigan.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow