(WWJ) -- Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned fisherman, this weekend is your chance to drop a line — free of cost!
It's Free Fishing Weekend across Michigan, with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) allowing both residents and non-residents to fish without a license on Saturday, Feb. 17 and Sunday, Feb. 18.
DNR fisheries biologist Cleyo Harris tells WWJ's Beth Fisher that there are plenty of opportunties to catch some fish in Michigan, which boasts more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams, and 11,000 inland lakes.
Still, Harris says ice fishing is not currently recommended in the southern lower region of the state, because temperatures have been too warm this winter.
Still, if you're feeling like waiting for some even warmer temps to grab your tackle box and wade into the water, there will be another fishing weekend opportunity on the weekend of June 8 and 9. Learn more here.
The annual fishing license fee for Michigan residents is $26; seniors pay $11.
Additionally, access to all Michigan state parks and boating access sites are also free this weekend.