Make an Icy Catch during Free Fishing Weekend

The bountiful freshwaters of Michigan make fishing one of the state's premier outdoor activities. From Lake Huron to countless inland lakes, plus abundant rivers and streams, the Oscoda area is the ideal spot to try a little fishing during your next getaway. But wait, you're visiting in the winter? No worries... the fishing doesn't stop when the water freezes.

Ice fishing is a popular sport here in Michigan. Virtually every fish that's available to anglers in the summer can be caught through the ice – some more frequently in winter. And with more than 150 species of fish to catch – from salmon and walleye to bass and lake trout – you don't want to let a little cold stand in your way from a trophy catch.  

At Wellman's Party and Bait in Oscoda, they've got the supplies and the know-how to get you prepped for your ice fishing adventure. Stop in for all your gear – from ice augers to rods, reels and bait. They can offer up suggestions on the best ice fishing spots, including Van Etten Lake and Cedar Lake. They'll even clean your catch for you! Need some inspiration to give ice fishing a try? Check out the LT Outdoors YouTube channel featuring Oscoda-native Lowell Miller, as he takes you along on some of his successful ice fishing adventures.

Michigan's Department of Natural Resources offers a great incentive to try ice fishing this February with its free fishing weekend. You won't need a fishing license on Feb. 19 and 20 to break out your tackle box, because all fishing license fees will be waived for those two days for Michigan residents and visitors. As a bonus, a Recreation Passport will not be needed to get into any of the state parks, including nearby Tawas Point and Sturgeon Point state parks.

"Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after." — Henry David Thoreau