BAY CITY -- The winter festival is focusing on getting kids and families outside. Michigan’s free fishing weekend is offering a chance to drop a line after making your own fishing pole.
"I really enjoy getting them out there ice fishing, I wish I was out there right now. I heard one of the kids caught a huge pike with our little fishing jig stick their making," said Bay City State Recreation Area Park Interpreter Valerie Blaschka.
Volunteers and children are both enjoying the winter festival in Bay City.
"It’s all about getting kids outdoors and if we can get them out fishing that's what it’s all about,” said volunteer Jim Blaschka.
The fishing competition is one part of the festivals plethora of learning opportunities.
Snowshoeing and animal recognition attracted hundreds.
"A little bit about tracks and signs they may see on the way and then we can go out and look at the tracks by way of snowshoes and that's usually new for most children in our area," said Valerie Blaschka.
A snow snake clinic is giving children a chance to make their own snake out of wood.
The recreation area hopes to get more children involved through free events like the winter festival. Teaching them about different animals and fun things to do outdoors.
"Snowball contests sled races, learning about Michigan’s wildlife and a little about birding birds and how to feed them," said Blaschka.
You can try out fishing Michigan’s waters license free all weekend and learn more about the outdoors year around at the Bay City State Recreation Area.
