Freebies include fishing, ORVing and state park entry
By Barb Pert Templeton
If taking the family to a nearby state park to fish, swim or ride an off-road vehicle has been on your to-do list next weekend you can do all three for free here in Michigan.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is encouraging everyone to take advantage of the semi-annual “Three Free” Weekend, coming up Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14. The DNR also hosts a “Three Free” Winter Weekend in February.) It’s two full days when Michigan residents and out-of-state visitors can grab a fishing rod, ride the off-road trails and visit state parks, boating access sites and other outdoor locations – all free of charge. “This season, we’re encouraging newcomers to discover the outdoors and inviting longtime outdoor explorers to dust off their gear and get out there,” said DNR Director Scott Bowen. “Whether you want to cast a line, hit the ORV trails or relax in Michigan’s award-winning state parks, ‘Three Free’ Weekend checks all the boxes.”
The DNR’s “Three Free” Weekend includes: 1. Free ORV Weekend. Legally ride 4,000 miles of state-designated routes and trails and the state’s six scramble areas without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit.
2. Free Fishing Weekend. Fish for all in-season species, all weekend long, without a license. All other fishing regulations apply.
ORving in Manistee National Forest near Baldwin, Michigan
3. Free entry to state parks. To encourage people to pursue free fishing and other outdoor fun, the DNR Recreation Passport that grants vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks, 1,000-plus state-managed boating access sites and many other outdoor spaces is waived for the weekend.
Blue Water Healthy Living caught up with Fisheries Division Communications Specialist Marcee Wardell to post some additional questions about the special “Three Free” Weekend across the state.
Blue Water Healthy Living: How long has the DNR been hosting free fishing weekends in Michigan?
DNR Fisheries Division Communications Specialist Marcee Wardell: The first Free Fishing Weekend in Michigan was in 1986.
BWHL: Can you share what species are in season that local anglers may pursue that weekend?
Wardell: There are a lot of great opportunities in St. Clair County during this time of year. In the St. Clair River, it’s a good time to target walleye and smallmouth bass (catch-and-immediate-release only for bass, possession season does not begin until the third Saturday in June). In inland lakes, many anglers are targeting bluegill, sunfish, and bass. Make sure to check out the 2026 Michigan Fishing Regulations before you hit the water, as all regulations still apply.
BWHL: Any examples of groups that have attended the free fishing weekend that wouldn’t normally be able to due to the cost of the license and park entry?
Wardell: I don’t have any specific examples on hand, but I know that many groups hold events on Free Fishing Weekend and see a lot of participation, which suggests that waiving the fishing license fee can help people who are new to fishing give it a try. One of our partner groups We Fixin to Fish holds free learn to fish events for all ages, usually on Belle Isle; their Free Fishing Weekend event is one of their biggest events of the year in terms of participation.
BWHL: How much is a fishing license this year?
Wardell: The cost for an annual resident fishing license is $26. Daily fishing licenses are also available for $10 per day. For those who try out fishing this year on Free Fishing Weekend and enjoy the experience, getting your fishing license is how you can help support fishing opportunities and aquatic ecosystems.
BWHL: Does the DNR offer any basic fishing tips for beginners?
Wardell: Yes, we have some helpful videos and other resources available online. Many of our state parks offer free Hook, Line and Sinker classes.
BWHL: Does the bait on your line really matter or make a difference?
Wardell: It all depends on what you’re fishing for! Different species respond to different baits or lures; you can find information on what might work for your desired catch in the fishing information on our fish ID pages Fish or hear what’s been working for other anglers in the Weekly Fishing Report. For beginners, worms are a good starting point. Learn more about Passport benefits at Michigan.gov/RecreationPassport.
