Free Fishing Weekend in Michigan, Beware Dangerous Ice

Michigan's annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend is tomorrow and Sunday on all state waters. That means that no fishing license is required to fish, but all other rules and regulations apply according the the DNR. Rivers in southern/central Michigan have open, flowing water and can be fished using conventional gear. Lakes are a bit trickier, with ice conditions considered dangerous in areas south of the the Saginaw Bay. If you plan to ice fish, please try to limit your efforts to ice over shallow waters.

According the DNR, fish can be found in 2 to 3 feet of water this time of year. If you fall into water that shallow, it will be uncomfortable, but usually not deadly. A man died this week after falling through the ice on a Lapeer County lake. Sheriff's department dive teams removed his body and found the ice to be only 2 inches thick. Use caution on the water this weekend. Fish open waters from shore or from a boat if possible. Fishing is a lot of fun and is a huge part of of Michigan's economy. Please enjoy it safely.

The pictures are of me fishing Algoe Lake last year. No fish were harmed or disturbed during that excursion. I don't exactly strike fear into the hearts of aquatic creatures, but still enjoy trying.