Fishwhisper

Osborn’s 2014 Big Ice Fishing Contest
The dates for this years contest will be February 21st, 22nd, and 23rd.

Osborn Sport Shop Web Site

Duane Fewins with 2013 Winning Fish

Steve Conrad northern pike caught on a tip up using a golden shiner measured 34.25 inches weighed 11.2 lbs. Wellston Michigan

I hope the warm weather will start the fishing again on the inland lakes, Grand Traverse Bay they are still catching many whitefish and lake trout.

The fishing team of Ryan, Kayle and Jake are back.
They seem to to best late afternoons. This trip be sides
others, they caught a 33″, 8.40 lb. and a 30″, 6.03 lb. pike.

FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP

Ice Fisherman sharpen your augers. You can expect 2 feet of ice on lakes Cadillac, Mitchell and surrounding lakes. Listen to the hum of power augers. Those with hand augers don’t cut many holes. Snowmobiles, quads, cars and trucks are on the lakes.

Some have finally found keeper size Bluegills and Sunfish. Best chances are outside the Big Cove on Mitchell. They’re deep! Fish 12 to 14 foot depths using red spikes on small jigs. During the day they’re on the bottom. Late afternoons as the sun goes down, they suspend and may be right under the ice.

Best catches of Crappie are still coming from the Kenwood Park area on Cadillac. Try out far enough so you can see down the canal at Mitchell State Park. Walleye anglers report catching slab size Crappie on tip-ups baited with Walleye size minnows. Take advantage of this since the Walleye have temporally disappeared. Those using electronics do best.

Pike seem to bite anytime of day, but the action isn’t as what it was. Hammer handles are common. Its a numbers game waiting for those 30 inters.

Smelt Fishermen:

Green Lake: The numbers are picking up on Green Lake. Catches are coming through out the day not just at night. We’re told counts in the low hundreds have been normal.

Crystal Lake: Some are catching smelt big enough to fillet. Numbers have been good and they’re “Big.”

Higgins Lake: No current reports.

Tired of Ice Fishing. Try Steelhead fishing. The Manistee River is only a short distance from Cadillac. Steelhead have been cooperating. Bobber fishing with jigs tipped with waxworms or wigglers has been effective. Some have found they eat minnows just like the other fish.

March 1st – The New 2014 licenses will be available.
The Licenses prices and structure have changed.

Around the circuit today it seems like the inland lakes are still slow, reports on Skegemog was the bigger perch are biting.

Crystal Lake the smelt fishing is great off of Lobb Rd.

Higgins Lake the perch and lake trout are biting great. Smelt fishing is terrible as I have not heard of one caught off the west access.

Houghton Lake was slow but a few fish started biting this afternoon with some nice perch being caught.

Lake Missaukee has been slow this week, Casey for Miller’s Corner fished Saginaw Bay during the week and the fishing was really slow as the ice has got so thick the walleye have shut down

Grand Traverse Bay the whitefish, lake trout, and ciscoes are still biting good but no reports of perch.

Portage lake has been slow but some fish started to bite this afternoon.

Lake Margrethe the fishing is slow with guys seeing lots of fish but they will not biting.

Burt, Mullet and black are real slow as too much snow and slush

6 man limit plus dozens more released — with Greg Alsip, Devin Lakvold, Wyatt McCoy and
Kyle Walkowiak with two others. It was a two mile hike from Bigham out to the bank on Power Island 6 inches of hard clear ice

Grand Traverse Bay: Has fishable ice so anglers are heading out for whitefish, lake trout, perch and rainbows. They have been catching ciscos out on the brush grounds on west bay. Lake trout, whitefish have been good off of Bigham, Bluff Rd, Bower’s Harbor. Some perch off of east bay and clinch park.

Long Lake by Traverse City has been good for perch and walleye this week and the slush has tighten up.

Crystal Lake: In Benzie County has decent smelt fishing at night in 45 to 50 feet of water off Lobb Rd,. Use hali jigs with wax worms. Some have caught lake trout just off the bottom. Look for perch along the weeds in 25 to 35 feet of water. Try tear drops tipped with a minnow or wiggler.

Green Lake: Continues to produce smelt for those fishing near the Betsie River or the Music Camp at night. Try a teardrop or hali jig with a wax worm.

Saginaw Bay: A few walleye were caught in 20 feet of water off Linwood and the Bay City State Park. A couple perch were caught in 6 feet off Newman Road. Those wading at the Hot Pond caught a few pike. Those heading off the end of Callahan Road caught some nice walleye about 8 miles out. Near Quanicassee, perch anglers did well off and on at Vanderbilt Park. They were fishing out near the first pressure crack. Walleye anglers continue to fish about 10 miles off Sunset Bay Marina and Thomas Road. Catch rates were hit-or-miss. Attention Anglers: The Village of Sebewaing is planning to use dynamite to break up some of the river ice to prevent flooding. This action will take place on or about February 20th. There are signs posted to alert the public. For now, anglers are fishing off the VFW, Rose Island and Geiger Road. Most are likely fishing the Slot or crossing the Bar to deeper water. Perch were spotty at Mud Creek.

Saginaw River: Walleye fishing was slow at Wickes Park, Middle Grounds, Cass Avenue, Veterans Park and Smith Park. A few fish were taken south of the Zilwaukee Bridge near the grain silos in 23 feet or downstream of the Liberty Bridge and out to the channel in 23 feet. Some five and six pounders were taken between I-675 and First Street but those fishing near the mouth off Patterson Road caught many sub-legal fish.

Portage Lake is still slow but reports a few fish have been caught the last few days. Pike have started to bite but reports there is still lots of snow on the lake but it is starting to settle.

Hamlin Lake is still hard to get around with quads but fish have started to bite the last two days. About a dozen fishing on the lake today. Slush is starting to tighten up. Crappie being caught on the upper lake, minimal pan fish…..smaller in size. Best catch just before dark.

Pentwater seems to be the place as there was 40 cars fishing there today. It is a easy place to fish as short walk and perch are biting.

White Lake reports fishing is really bad as too much snow and no parking.

Around Baldwin a few pike and gills being caught but lots of snow.

Hesperia reports good pike fishing and a few gills but lakes still have lots of snow.

Northwestern Michigan

East and West Grand Traverse Bay are froze and guys are getting out so this might be the best bet this weekend for whitefish, Lake trout and perch.

Green Lake: In Grand Traverse County is producing some smelt and big pike. Smelt have been slow with the arctic front. red spikes, white spikes, waxworms with a hali jig have been the best bet. Ice is good at both landing with many shanties out off the south access .

Skegemog- Perch were biting but nobody out this week Call Jack’s Sport Shop@231-258-8892

Fife Lake- Fife Lake fishing Derby is this Sat Feb 8 Lakeside Party @ 231-879-3341 for latest info

Portage Lake- Slow this week Call Osborne’s@ 231-889-3775 for latest fishing report. Also Don’s Sporting Goods@ 231-723-5028

Hamlin Lake- Slow this week too much snow Hamlin Grocery@(231) 843-2058 and Capt. Chucks @ (231) 843-4458

Lake Missaukee- Is producing a few perch and crappie. The better fishing is usually along the weed beds on the west side of the lake with a minnow or spike. Pike have started to bite Call Miller Corner@ 231-839-0440.

Crystal Lake: Lobb road has been ok for smelt and perch has excellent smelt fishing at night in 45 to 50 feet of water. Use Hali jigs with wax worms. Look for perch along the weeds in 25 to 35 feet of water. Try tear drops tipped with a minnow or spike.

Lake Cadillac: Anglers are catching pike and crappie. Call Pilgrim Village 231-775-5412 latest info

Lake Mitchell: Is another good lake for pike, crappie and bluegill. Call Pilgrim Village 231-775-5412 latest info

Manistee River: Steelhead can be found up near Tippy Dam. Below High Bridge the river is iced up and not fishable.

Pere Marquette River: Has steelhead. Those wading have caught steelhead and the occasional brown trout.

Pere Marquette Lake: The U.S. Coast Guard is warning anglers and other recreational users to use extreme caution due to ice breaking operations. They will be making two trips and stopping at Ludington’s Occidental Chemical Facility. Officials say ice fishermen should remove their ice shanties and equipment from these areas. Recreational users should plan their activities carefully and avoid the shipping channels.

Long Lake, Lake Leelanau has started to pick up this week with walleye and perch.

Big Glen Slow this week too much snow .

Duck Lake by Interlochen Slow this week too much snow

Lake Bellaire has been fair for walleye and pike.

Northeast Michigan

Black Lake: Pike and walleye have been spotty this week Call Parrots Outpost for the latest ice conditions (989) 733-2472

Mullet Lake- Is producing perch for those using minnows and waxworms call Mullet Lake Party store@ (231) 627-4644 or Topinabee Market@ 231-238-9578

Burt Lake: Slow on walleye and perch.. Call Pat & Gary’s Party Store 231-238-6776

Grand Lake: Was producing a few perch. Try 15 to 25 feet of water around Grand Island.

Long Lake: Is producing walleye and perch. Call Bucks@ 989-595-2121

Fletchers Pond: Was producing a few crappie for those using minnows, wax worms or spikes. A few pike were taken on tip-ups. They have a fishing derby this weekend call Wild Bills Bait and Tackle@ (989) 742-4874

Otsego Lake- Fishing has been slow on Otsego Perch fishing has been fair on Bradford, chub Lake trout fishing has been good. The sturgeon have been slow this week Call Northern Sports@ 987-448-2014 for latest info

Higgins Lake- Lake trout are being caught on greys. Perch anglers were starting to catch a few bigger ones in 8 to 12 feet of water on the east side of the lake off Maple Hurst Road and Flag Point. Perch were caught south of the Sunken Island by those using minnows, spikes and wax worms. Rainbow trout can be found in the shallows off Big Creek and the Conference Center. Most are using blues. Perch were caught near Big Creek, Treasure Island, or B & B Marina. On the south end of the lake, perch were caught off Sunken Island. A few pike were taken on tip-ups and large minnows. Those spearing were seeing smaller pike. Kelly Beach on the south-end has been great for perch this weekend
.Call Erik@ Silver Dollar Express (989) 821-6227 or Dave@Sports Barn 989-821-9511 for latest fishing info.

Houghton Lake- Catch rates for bluegill were slow but should improve as the weather warms. Try along the weed beds in 10 feet or more for walleye. Middle Grounds has been good for walleye as lake conditions improve.

Angelo’s Party Store has shanties call for the latest info@ 989-202-4422

Dave at Four Season Party Store has his shanties out and they were catching fish call Dave @989-422-5230

Lyman’s Shanty rental @ 989-422-3231 says pike walleye and perch have been fair with a walleye once in a while just before dark.

Korbinski’s Shanty Rental call Rod@ 989-366-9500

Pappa’s Bait reporting walleye fishing off the middle grounds on Houghton Lake he also has a fishing tournament this weekend. 989-429-5780

Hubbard Lake: has been steady.

Au Sable River: Has steelhead in good numbers. Anyone making the effort to get to the open areas on the river should be successful when using spawn, wax worms or small spinners. There is ice built up along the banks but open water areas up river between the Whirlpool and the dam. Parking is at a minimum in most places. You may be able to launch at Whirlpool and Rea Road, but launches have ice built up so you may have to break through to launch a boat. The snowmobile trails have been very active so use caution if walking on the trials.

Lake Margrethe: Is producing some walleye, perch and pike. Call Skips Sport@ 989-348-7111 for latest info

Tawas: Perch were caught off Jerry’s Marina and inside the harbor. Most fish were 6 to 8 inches but a few were up near the 10 inch range. Walleye fishing was active out near the edge of the safe ice but catch rates were slow. Pike spearing was also slow.

Au Gres: Most of the fishing activity was down near Pointe Au Gres off Booth Road. Perch were taken at the edge of the drop-off in 8 feet and some walleye were taken out further. Down off Palmer Road, walleye anglers are getting a few fish from the Catfish Hole at dusk. Catch rates for perch about a mile offshore were spotty in 6 feet of water.

Wixom Lake has been great for gills, pike and lots of crappie.Ice fishing is great here on Wixom Lake, Gladwin County. Be sure to stop at Sandys Market to get your bait! call Joe (989) 435-9688

Sanford Lake has been fair call Sanford Sport for info on Wixom and Sanford @ 989-687.5161

Secord Lake has been fair for panfish. Sandy’s Market call Joe (989) 435-9688

Wiggins and Sugar Springs have been good for pike and panfish

Lake St. Helen: Catch rates were slow but fish have been caught. For pike, try tip-ups with large minnows. Anglers will find crappie in waters 8 feet or deeper. They were hitting on small minnows and wax worms. The lake is producing a few perch ranging 10 to 12 inches but no big numbers. Most anglers are fishing First Lake especially the north and northwest side as well as off the boat launch. Call Dave @ Malcomb’s 989-389-2100 for latest info.

Upper Peninsula Fishing Report

Marquette: Anglers are ice fishing however caution needs to be used because ice thickness varies from one area to the next. A few ice anglers were targeting menominee and splake out from the Lower Harbor but catch rates were poor. Some are fishing near the bubblers however few fish were caught.

Chocolay River: The wayside on M-28 is plowed. The river is frozen however ice thickness is not uniform because of the current. Anglers typically fish for steelhead and brown trout this time of year.

Au Train: A couple anglers were targeting coho and steelhead out from the Rock River however few bites were reported as ice fishing was slow. No activity to report from the Brownstone Launch or the Au Train River. All areas are iced in and the launch areas are not plowed.

Munising: Ice in the bay is very thick and may be a challenge for those without a power auger. Anglers are targeting whitefish however catch rates were slow. For splake, catch rates were slow and the vast majority of fish were sub-legal. Those fishing in Trout Bay caught coho along with the occasional lake trout and steelhead. Small perch were caught at Sand Point.

Menominee: Anglers are still targeting whitefish off Henes Park and Red Arrow Park. They are using a jig with a small piece of minnow or wax worm in 30 to 40 feet. Catch rates were fair.

Menominee River: Those targeting panfish are jigging wax worms off the Menikaunee launch or behind K-Mart. Catch rates were still a bit slow however some bluegills were caught. Pike are still being marked off the Mystery Ship launch but few were caught. Anglers are jigging rapalas or using tip-ups with large minnows. For walleye, anglers are fishing through the ice on the Wisconsin side near the Hattie Street Dam. Catch rates were fair to good with the occasional whitefish also caught. Most are jigging a piece of minnow or wax worm. Some are targeting trout in the open water on the Michigan side but no fish were caught.

Little Bay De Noc: Angler participation was down as deep snow is making travel difficult. Catch rates for walleye were fair with Portage Point and Second Reef the hot spots. Anglers used tip-ups with minnows or were jigging rapalas in 24 feet on the Second Reef and 40 to 50 feet near Portage Point. Some fish were suspended 10 to 12 feet from the bottom. Sand Point was producing a fair number of whitefish in 75 to 90 feet and off the Terrace Bay Inn in Gladstone in 30 to 45 feet. Minnows and spawn work best. Perch fishing was slow but a few fish were taken in 14 to 17 feet near Kipling. A few jumbo perch were caught in the Kipling Flats in 23 to 30 feet.

Southeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Lake Erie: Is producing walleye in Brest Bay. Try 12 to 20 feet of water with Swedish pimples, small Cleo’s or jigging rapalas tipped with a big minnow. Those fishing off the Metro Park Marina caught perch and bluegills.

Detroit River: Perch have been caught in the canals around Gibraltar. Try shiners, spikes or wax worms. Those heading out to Airport Bay are getting perch. Anglers will have to park at Groh Road and then take the half mile walk down Frenchmen’s Creek to get out to the Bay.

Lake St. Clair: Still has a lot of snow on the ice and that makes travel more difficult. Despite the cold temperatures, there are still some areas with open water so anglers need to use caution. Perch fishing was spotty with mainly small fish caught.

Harbor Beach: Had a few anglers fishing in the boat channel off the Edison Plant and some off the discharge channel. There were rumors of perch being caught but the only fish recorded was a brown trout.

Saginaw Bay: A few walleye were caught in 20 feet of water off Linwood and the Bay City State Park. A couple perch were caught in 6 feet off Newman Road. Those wading at the Hot Pond caught a few pike. Those heading off the end of Callahan Road caught some nice walleye about 8 miles out. Near Quanicassee, perch anglers did well off and on at Vanderbilt Park. They were fishing out near the first pressure crack. Walleye anglers continue to fish about 10 miles off Sunset Bay Marina and Thomas Road. Catch rates were hit-or-miss. Attention Anglers: The Village of Sebewaing is planning to use dynamite to break up some of the river ice to prevent flooding. This action will take place on or about February 20th. There are signs posted to alert the public. For now, anglers are fishing off the VFW, Rose Island and Geiger Road. Most are likely fishing the Slot or crossing the Bar to deeper water. Perch were spotty at Mud Creek.

Saginaw River: Walleye fishing was slow at Wickes Park, Middle Grounds, Cass Avenue, Veterans Park and Smith Park. A few fish were taken south of the Zilwaukee Bridge near the grain silos in 23 feet or downstream of the Liberty Bridge and out to the channel in 23 feet. Some five and six pounders were taken between I-675 and First Street but those fishing near the mouth off Patterson Road caught many sub-legal fish.

Tittabawassee River: A couple walleye were caught through the ice downstream of the Center Road Bridge. This area is close to open water so anglers use caution.

Southwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

St. Joseph River: Has shelf ice and the ramps are extremely icy. Anglers have caught a couple steelhead on the warmer days.

Kalamazoo River: Is still iced up with shelf ice. Look for steelhead fishing to improve as the temperatures warm up.

Gull Lake: Anglers have caught a few smelt, northern pike and some lake trout on the north end of the lake.

Gun Lake: Was producing bluegill, black crappie, walleye and perch.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Has shelf ice along the banks. The better steelhead fishing will be down near the dam. Walleye can usually be found near the dam or under the bridges.

Lake Lansing: Some bluegills were caught in 15 feet of water. Try a tear drop with a wax worm or spike.

Muskegon River: Catch rates should increase as temperatures rise by the end of the week.

Portage Lake is still slow but reports a few fish have been caught the last few days. Pike have started to bite but reports there is still lots of snow on the lake but it is starting to settle.

Hamlin Lake is still hard to get around with quads but fish have started to bite the last two days. About a dozen fishing on the lake today. Slush is starting to tighten up. Crappie being caught on the upper lake, minimal pan fish…..smaller in size. Best catch just before dark.

Crystal Lake the smelt are still biting off of Lobb Rd.

Green Lake the smelt fishing is picking up.

Pentwater seems to be the place as there was 40 cars fishing there today. It is a easy place to fish as short walk and perch are biting.

White Lake reports fishing is really bad as too much snow and no parking.

Around Baldwin a few pike and gills being caught but lots of snow.

Hesperia reports good pike fishing and a few gills but lakes still have lots of snow.

PENTWATER ANGLER
Hosts the: 3rd Annual Ryan Williams Fishing Derby

Feb 15th 2014
(Free fishing weekend)
7:00AM – 2:30PM
WHERE: PENTWATER LAKE
ENTRY FEES: $5 ADULT $3 KID
Weigh In: Boathouse bar and grill

FOR RULES & REGISTRATION
CALL OR VISIT
PENTWATER ANGLER
560 S. HANCOCK ST.
PENTWATER, MI 49449
231-869-5357
OR
VISIT US ON FACEBOOK
KEY SEARCH: PENTWATER ANGLER

Ryan Williams Perch Tournament Rules:
The contest is scheduled for Saturday Feb. 15th 2014, from 7:00 to 2:30pm on Pentwater Lake.
• Weigh in is from 1:00pm to 3:00pm
• You must be in line to weigh/measure your fish at the Boat house Bar and Grill by 3:00pm no exceptions.
All DNR Rules Apply
All Fish are measured by tournament officials and length will be determined by them. In the event of a tie, the angler with the largest single fish will be awarded the greater prize. If the largest fish is also a tie then tournament officials will move down the order of fish they entered measuring each one until a decision is made.
Each person attends and participates in the contest at their own risk. Pentwater Angler, The village of Pentwater, Harbor view Condos, participating sponsors and/or involved agents are and shall not be liable for any injuries or accidents including but not limited to those caused by negligence of any party involved.
Ethical and sporting conduct is mandatory. Unruly/disorderly contestants will be disqualified by a contest official. Please be considerate of your fellow contestants, and enjoy the contest.
• Kids are separate from adults. A kid is not eligible for adult prizes
• Adult prizes are cash or gear totaling entry money
• Amounts of each place prizes will be determined by the entry amount of participation. Prize Amounts will be posted at weigh in.
• This is a perch derby with a added total measurement of five perch determined by the angler. Each angler must determine the five fish to measure before they come to the weigh in table.
• At a minimum 1st ,2nd , and 3rd place prizes will be paid.
• In addition to overall all tournament there will be a side pot for the largest perch caught by an angler with a White River Perch pounder in their possession. This will have a $50.00 cash prize donated by White River Tackle of Hesperia. Kid entries will also be Eligible for this prize.
• In addition to the overall derby of five fish, There will be a $25.00 prize for the largest perch measured in.

Sponsors for the 3rd Annual Ryan Williams Perch Derby are:
PENTWATER ANGLER BAIT SHOP
BOATHOUSE BAR AND GRILL
BROWN BEAR (Pentwater)
RIVERHOUSE TRADING POST
ANTLER BAR
SCHOONERS ISLAND BAR
HART PIZZA
PENTWATER CONVIENENCE CENTER
OCEANA WINERY (Pentwater)
STORYBOOK VILLAGE AND STARLIGHT THEATER
GOLDEN SANDS GOLF COURSE AND BUCKET BAR
WHITE RIVER TACKLE (Hesperia)
HOOKED GUIDESERVICE
DICK HERRMANN
CHARLIE’S MARINA
CENZO’S MARKET
BUC’S BAIT

Grand Traverse Bay has been great for lake trout and whitefish on both east and west bays. Jigging and tip ups with greys has been a great combo. Whitefish with a sand kickers, spawn and perch minnows. Some perch are being caught but they are very tight lipped about the locations.

Joe from Sandy’s Market caught some nice fish out of Wixom today call him at (989) 435-9688 Below is fish he caught

Crystal lake is still has a bite on the jumbo smelt, green lake has reports of smelt starting to bite again and some say they are catching 100 a night but I have not confirmed this with a smelt fry.

Check out the current list of officially registered 2014 Winter Free Fishing Weekend events. Perhaps you’ll attend one, or perhaps one will spark your interest in planning your own event!
All fishing license fees will be waived for two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes’ waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations still apply. For Free Fishing events in your area, click on any county listed below.
Please note that some events do require pre-registration and/or the DNR’s Recreation Passport.

Alger County

Event Name: Moose Lodge Fishing Derby
Location: Au Train Lake in Munising
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Details: This ice fishing derby is open to folks of all ages! There is a $10 entry fee for adults, kids 12 and under are free.
Contact: 906-387-2879

Alpena County

Event Name: Reel Fun Ice Fishing Tournament
Location: Grand Lake in Alpena
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Details: This 6th annual tournament has all proceeds going to the River Center. First prize is a 2014 John Deere gator. Only 1,000 tickets will be sold. Prizes will go to the top 30 places. Please note it costs $25 per person to participate. For more information, visit www.icefishingalpena.com.
Contact: info@icefishingalpena.com, 989-595-3919

Antrim County

Event Name: Ellsworth Shiverfest
Location: Ellsworth
Date: Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16
Time: All day, both days
Details: Ellsworth Shiverfest celebrates all there is to do in Ellsworth in winter?from sledding to snowmobiling to hiking to fishing and more!
Contact: 231-360-0676

Arenac County

Event Name: 2014 Forest Lake Ice Fishing Derby
Location: 6180 Bobcat Trail, Alger
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: Fishing starts at daybreak and concludes at 2:00 p.m.
Details: Participants must sign-up to participate, visit the Forest Lake office in advance or on the day of the event. The derby’s weight-in will begin at 2:00 p.m. There will be two divisions: Adult and Youth. Please note there is an entry fee, $10 for adults and $5 for youth age 16 and younger.
Contact: forestlakepoa@hotmail.com, 989-836-2155

Bay County

Event Name: Winter Festival
Location: Bay City State Recreation Area, Saginaw Bay Visitor Center (3582 State Park Drive, Bay City)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Details: Activities focus on getting out and exploring Michigan’s Winter Wonderland. Family Ice Fishing Derby, Snow Angel Contest, Snow Snake Tournament, Winter Wildlife Workshops, live animal programs, Backyard Bird Feeding Workshops, Snowshoeing, Owl Prowl Hike, Candlelight Walk/Ski and more! Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: blaschkav@michigan.gov, 989-667-0717

Event Name: Shiver on the River Walleye Contest
Location: Saginaw River and its tributaries
Date: Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16 (contest actually starts February 2, but all other days require a fishing license when participating)
Time: All day, every day
Details: This annual contest is put on by the Saginaw Spirit Hockey Club and looks to reward walleye anglers with the biggest catches. Please note there is a registration fee for anglers.
Contact: www.saginawspirit.com/shiver

Cheboygan County

Event Name: Waterways Ice Festival
Location: Mullett Lake Marina (7700 Mullett Lake Road, Cheboygan)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Details: The Waterways Ice Festival is a winter event put on by Mullett Lake Promotions for the northern communities in and around Mullett Lake. The ice fishing contest, one of several activities, runs all day and provides families an opportunity to enjoy/try ice fishing at little or no cost. All proceeds of the 3rd annual event go to selected organized youth groups in Cheboygan County. Please note there is an entry fee, $7.50 per person/$15 per family.
Contact: info@waterwaysicefestival.com , 231-268-3377

Clinton County

Event Name: Ice Fishing Derby
Location: Bath Community Center (5959 Park Lake Road, Bath)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Details: Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Bath Community Center. Fishing will be held from 9:00 to 4:00 on Park Lake. Trophies will be awarded to the longest, legal fish. Door prizes will also be awarded. Please note there is an entry fee, $10 for adults. Kids under the age of 18 are free.
Contact: bgoodwin@bathtownship.us, 517-641-5167

Gogebic County

Event Name: 5th Annual Wakefield Volunteer Fire Department Ice Fishing Contest
Location: VFW Post 9084 (107 US Highway 2, Wakefield)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Central)
Details: Fifth Annual Ice Fishing Contest and Family Fun Day. Door prizes throughout the day for registered people. Free face painter and clown. Inside and outside fun! Please note there is an entry fee, $5 for adults, $3 for kids ages 3-12.
Contact: clerk@cityofwakefield.org, 906-229-5131

Iosco County

Event Name: Fishing for the Future
Location: Lake Van Etten at Ken Ratliff Park (F-41, Oscoda)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Details: This ice fishing event is designed to raise money and awareness about and for the issues surrounding local rivers, tributaries and the environment. Please help the Iosco Conservation District make a difference in Iosco County. This event will feature 220 holes in the ice, anglers will choose on a first-come, first-serve basis. Check-in will start at 10:00 a.m. Please note there is a cost to participate, $20 in advance or $25 the day of.
Contact: andrew.beebe@macd.org, 989-335-1056

Keweenaw County

Event Name: Ice Fishing Tournament
Location: Lake Fanny Hooe at Fort Wilkins State Park (15223 U.S. 41, Copper Harbor)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Details: Annual opportunity for folks of all ages to participate in ice fishing. Prizes awarded! Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry, and there is a $10 entry fee for adults. Kids are free.
Contact: 906-337-1738

Macomb County

Event Name: Annual Youth Ice Fishing Derby
Location: Gino’s Surf (37400 Jefferson Avenue, Harrison Township)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Details: Youth ice fishing derby for all ages (up to 17 years old). Registration costs $5 and includes free bait, hot dog and hot chocolate, and a chance to win some great prizes. Please note participants must pre-register.
Contact: georgepretty@yahoo.com, 248-342-7778

Montcalm County

Event Name: A Saturday Snow Day!
Location: 7389 E. Vestaburg Road, Vestaburg
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Details: Fishing, snowshoeing, sledding, target shooting, and indoor “warm-up” games. All ages are welcome. Dress warm! All equipment is provided, unless you want to bring your own. Visit www.rlca.org for registration information.Please note there is a $10 per person/$20 per family entry fee.
Contact: dan@rlca.org , 989-268-5377

Montcalm County

Event Name: A Saturday Snow Day!
Location: 7389 E. Vestaburg Road, Vestaburg
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Details: Fishing, snowshoeing, sledding, target shooting, and indoor “warm-up” games. All ages are welcome. Dress warm! All equipment is provided, unless you want to bring your own. Visit www.rlca.org for registration information.Please note there is a $10 per person/$20 per family entry fee.
Contact: dan@rlca.org , 989-268-5377

Muskegon County

Event Name: Muskegon Conservation Club Winter Expo
Location: 1921 Lake Avenue, North Muskegon
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Details: Come on out and enjoy the festivities, including free breakfast; kids fishing derby; ice skating; cross country skiing; bon fire with roasted hot dogs; and games such as broom ball, ice hole, and shuffle board. Bring your ice skates, skis, fishing rods, and other items.
Contact: darter169@gmail.com, worteaj@gmail.com, 231-327-2441

Newaygo County

Event Name: Dam to Dam Ice Fishing Contest
Location: Croton & Hardy Pond
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Details: This event is sponsored by River Country Chamber of Commerce, Leinenkugel, WLAV and Croton Bay Trading Post. Participants can fish all morning and then return to the American Legion for the weigh-in. There is a $5 fee per adult to participate, children are free with a registered adult. All proceeds will be given to Big Brother and Sisters of Newaygo County.
Contact: 231-652-2250

Oakland County

Event Name: Rec 101: Intro to Ice Fishing
Location: Bald Mountain State Recreation Area, Hearth Shelter (1330 E. Greenshield Road, Lake Orion)
Date: Sunday, February 16
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Details: This exciting, family-friendly event will include ice fishing instruction and demonstration, and maybe a little intro to fly fishing as well. Instructors will explain all the gear needed, how to drill a hole in the ice, safety procedures and where to find the best fish. All the gear, guides, & good times are provided FREE! The event will take place whether there is ice or not, it may just have to be on land. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: ballt4@michigan.gov, 248-693-9780

Event Name: Ice Fishing Derby
Location: Seven Lakes State Park (14390 Fish Lake Road, Holly)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Details: This event is sponsored by Izaak Walton League of America, Fenton Chapter and Seven Lakes State Park. Limited equipment (fishing poles, bait, ice augers) available to use for those that don’t have any. Lots of prizes will be awarded. Bring the whole family for a day of fun. Refreshments will be available. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: 248-634-7271

Roscommon County

Event Name: Catch Us if You Can
Location: Higgins Lake, Houghton Lake, Lake St. Helen
Date: Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16
Time: All day, each day
Details: Catch a tagged fish in any of the three lakes listed above during the 2014 Winter Free Fishing Weekend and you will receive a $50 gas card and be entered into a drawing for $100,000 and a new boat package. Plus, all anglers who catch a tagged fish will receive a special prize!
Contact: info@visithoughtonlake.com, 989-422-2002

Event Name: WinterFest 2014
Location: North Higgins Lake State Park boat launch (11511 W. Higgins Lake Drive, Roscommon)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Details: WinterFest is a family-oriented event held each year that includes ice skating, cardboard sled racing, broomball tournament, Kid’s Karnival games, wagon rides, chili cook-off, polar plunge (sponsored by Special Olympics), snowmobile radar run, and ice fishing derby. Prizes during the derby are awarded for fish categories and fish sizes. Children are strongly encouraged to participate to learn the sport of ice fishing. Please note, a $5 WinterFest badge allows entry to all events.
Contact: info@hlrcc.com, 989-275-8760

Saginaw County

Event Name: Shiver on the River Walleye Contest
Location: Saginaw River and its tributaries
Date: Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16 (contest actually starts February 2, but all other days require a fishing license when participating)
Time: All day, every day
Details: This annual contest is put on by the Saginaw Spirit Hockey Club and looks to reward walleye anglers with the biggest catches. Please note there is a registration fee for anglers.
Contact: www.saginawspirit.com/shiver

Tuscola County

Event Name: 19th Annual Ice Fishing Tournament
Location: The Fowler Center (2315 Harmon Lake Road, Mayville)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Details: Come try to catch the grand prize northern pike worth $7,000! Fishing sessions will occur from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Concessions are available all day! Raffles, Door Prizes, Cash Prizes, and 50/50 also available all day!
Contact: info@thefowlercenter.org, 989-637-2050

Van Buren County

Event Name: Ice Fishing 101
Location: Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery (34270 County Road 652, Mattawan)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Details: Geared towards youth, participants will learn about basic ice fishing techniques, safety, proper equipment and good fishing spots in southwest Michigan.
Contact: 269-668-2876

Event Name: Ice Fishing Seminar
Location: Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery (34270 County Road 652, Mattawan)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Details: Geared towards adult, participants will learn about basic ice fishing techniques, safety, proper equipment and good fishing spots in southwest Michigan. Please note, pre-registration is required.
Contact: 269-668-2876

Washtenaw County

Event Name: Family Ice Fishing & Bonfire
Location: Eddy Discovery Center (17030 Bush Road, Chelsea) and Mill Lake
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Details: After making a jig stick at the Discovery Center, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, head down to Mill Lake to test it out. There will be ice fishing demonstrations as well as an area cleared for skating. Warm up afterwards around a bonfire with marshmallows and hot chocolate. Park at the Mill Lake Boat Launch on McClure Road or hike/ski over from the Discovery Center. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: mcglashenk@michigan.gov , 734-475-3170

Wayne County

Event Name: Kids Fish Free Weekend
Location: Lake Erie Metro Park boat ramp (32481 Jefferson Avenue, Rockwood)
Date: Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day
Details: Come experience free ice fishing for kids!
Contact: ljdoss369@yahoo.com, 734-674-6638

Wexford County

Event Name: Youth Ice Fishing Contest
Location: Mitchell State Park (6093 E. M-115, Cadillac)
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Details: Youth-oriented ice fishing contest. For more information, contact the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center at 231-779-1321. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: 231-779-1321