Fishing In The Parks Program

State Department of Natural Resources officials today announced its "Fishing in the Parks" program will return to 17 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas beginning June 15.

Now in its 10th year, the popular summer fishing program, held in conjunction with the DNR's State Park Explorer Program, is offered every Tuesday evening at 6:30 through Aug. 10. Reservations are not required, but a motor vehicle permit is required to enter any of the parks hosting the program.

Experienced, friendly instructors provide basic instruction on knot-tying, setting up a fishing pole, casting and using bait and lures, before helping the participants enjoy an evening of fishing fun in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Fishing in the Parks is aimed at introducing youngsters to the fun of fishing, which can become a lifelong activity and help them to be good stewards of our aquatic resources. The program is offered at the following state parks and recreation areas:

• Bay City Recreation Area, Bay City, 989-667-0717

• Fort Custer Recreation Area, Augusta, 616-731-4200

• Holland State Park, Holland, 616--399-9390

• Holly Recreation Area, Holly, 248-634-8811

• Ionia Recreation Area, Ionia, 616-527-3750

• Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, Metamora, 810-797-4439

• Muskegon State Park, Muskegon, 231-744-3480

• Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, Waterford, 248-666-1020

• Port Crescent State Park, Port Austin, 989-738-8663

• Proud Lake Recreation Area, Commerce Twp., 248-685-2433

• Rifle River Recreation Area, Lupton, 989-473-2258

• Sleepy Hollow State Park, Laingsburg, 517-651-6217

• South Higgins State Park, Roscommon, 989-821-6374

• Sterling State Park, Monroe, 734-289-2715

• Tawas Point State Park, East Tawas, 989-362-5041

• Yankee Springs Recreation Area, Middleville, 269-795-9081

• Young State Park, Boyne City, 231-582-7523

For more information on other programs offered at Michigan State Parks this summer, visit the DNR Web site. For camping reservations, go online or call 800-44-PARKS.