GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is hoping you'll get outside this weekend to take advantage of the Three Free Weekend on Saturday and Sunday.
It's two full days that Michiganders and out-of-staters alike can fish without a fishing license, go off-roading on state trails for free and enter state parks without an entry fee.
“We’re excited to celebrate ‘Three Free’ Weekend, a time when everyone gets to enjoy and take part in some of Michigan’s best outdoor recreation opportunities: fishing, off-roading and exploring Michigan’s award-winning state parks,” said DNR Director Scott Bowen. "Whether you're an avid outdoors-person or someone just discovering all that our beautiful state offers, 'Three Free' weekends make it easy to visit a new park, try a new nature experience or spend time with friends and family in a place you love."
FREE ENTRY | Waiver of the Recreation Passport
To encourage people to pursue free fishing and other outdoor fun, the DNR waives the regular Recreation Passport fee that grants vehicle access to Michigan's state parks, 1,000-plus state-managed boating access sites and many other outdoor spaces. Learn more about Passport benefits at Michigan.gov/RecreationPassport.
West Michigan has many state parks to enjoy, from P.J. Hoffmaster in Norton Shores, Saugatuck Dunes State Park in Holland, to Grand Haven State Park.
There are 103 state parks in Michigan, so you'll find something to do for just about everyone whether that's camping, fishing, hiking, boating, ORVing and more.
Free Fishing and Free ORV weekends each take place on back-to-back days twice a year, but the "Three Free" Weekend happens only in June.
FISHING
Residents and out-of-state visitors can fish on both inland and Great Lakes waters for all species of fish for free on June 8 and 9. All fishing regulations will still apply.
You don't need a boat or a ton of fancy fishing gear to have a great time on the water this weekend.
"We have a number of fishing platforms where people can walk out and get out and fish and partake of that. That makes it easier. Bank fishing is available. Most parks have a water feature, whether it's along a stream or a small lake," Ron Olson said.
If it's your kid's first time out on the water and they land a fish, you can print a certificate for them here:
FREE ORV WEEKEND
You can legally ride 4,000 miles of state routes and trails, as well as on six scramble areas without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit.
You can find out the latest trail, safety and closure info here.
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