Don’t let the cooler temps get you down. Embrace them! If your kids love fishing in the summertime, why not introduce them to ice fishing? This winter activity is fun for all ages, and Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekend, which takes place Feb. 15-16, 2020, is the perfect time to get started.
Many Free Fishing Weekend events are a bit of a hike from home, but why not make a weekend of it? Browse our list of ice fishing for families in Macomb County and beyond during Free Fishing Weekend and beyond. Plus, peek at the list of the best places to ice fish right in Macomb County.
For more Free Fishing Weekend events, visit the Department of Natural Resources website.
Bay City State Park Winter Festival
Feb. 15, 2020
- Distance: A day trip
- Address: Bay City State Park, 3582 State Park Dr., Bay City
- Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Cost: Free
This winter festival offers ice fishing (bait and holes provided), a youth ice fishing clinic and a snow snake tournament. Wildlife programming, including live animal presentations snacks and more, too.
Ice Fishing for Beginners
Feb. 15, 2020
- Distance: Close to home
- Address: Kensington Metropark, 4570 Huron River Parkway, Milford
- Time: 10 a.m.-noon
- Cost: $5/person, $10/vehicle pass
This program starts indoors at the nature center with a lesson in ice fishing basics including ice safety and hole-drilling. After, head out to Kent Lake to try out what you’ve learn. Dress for the weather and bring a bucket to sit on.
Free Centennial Ice Fishing Derby
Feb. 15, 2020
- Distance: Close to home
- Address: Seven Lakes State Park, 14390 Fish Lake Road, Holly
- Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Cost: Free
To celebrate the 101st anniversary of the Michigan State Parks, this Holly park is hosting an ice fishing event that’s geared at kids but features fun for the whole family. In addition to ice fishing, there will be food, prizes and a fire to keep warm.
Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Wild About Winter Activity Day
Feb. 15, 2020
- Distance: An overnight stay
- Address: Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery, 34270 County Road 652, Mattawan
- Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Cost: Free
Have a cup of hot chocolate by the fire as you learn about ice fishing at the Ice Fishing Discovery Table. Then try your hand at ice fishing or other outdoor winter experiences including a scavenger hunt, and jig making.
 Rifle River Recreation Area WinterFest
Feb. 15, 2020
- Distance: An overnight stay
- Address: Rifle River Recreation Area, 2550 E. Rose City Road, Lupton
- Time: Noon-2 p.m.
- Cost: Free
This fest offers more than ice fishing. In addition, find hayrides, sledding, snowshowing and more. There’s event a campfire you can roast hot dogs over. Bring your own sled and fishing equipment.
Spots for ice fishing in Macomb County
Thanks to the map of winter activities in Macomb County, it’s easy to find the best places to ice fish, among other cold-weather activities.
Here are the top spots for ice fishing in Macomb County:
- Blossom Heath Park, St. Clair Shores
- Brandenburg Park, Chesterfield Township
- Lake St. Clair Metropark, Harrison Township
- MDNR Clinton River Cut-Off Boat Access, Harrison Township
- Selfridge Boating Access Site, Harrison Township
- Stony Creek Metropark, Shelby Township
- Walter & Mary Burke Park, New Baltimore
This post was originally published in 2019 and is updated regularly.
For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
