Mentor Michigan - Mentor Michigan & DNR Fisheries Mini-Grant Resources

Mentor Michigan & DNR Fisheries Mini-Grant Resources

In December 2012, employees of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Fisheries Division, held a silent auction with the proceeds benefiting Mentor Michigan. In total, the group raised $3,340 which Mentor Michigan distributed to mentoring programs throughout the state in the form of mini-grants. These funds will be used to support fishing-related activities and expenses as a way to get the next generation of anglers involved, interested and "hooked" on fishing as they experience the fun with their mentors!

Fishing-Related Resources and Ideas for Mentoring Programs

Interested in applying for a Mentor Michigan DNR Mini-Grant but not sure what to do or how to start the planning process? The DNR has a variety of tools and resources available to help even the most novice individual.

Fishing-Related Activity Ideas for Mentoring Programs:

Coordinate a fishing derby for matches.
Organize a Free Fishing Weekend event for matches (see below for additional information about Free Fishing Weekend).
Plan a trip to a local state park for matches to participate in a Fishing 101 or Fishing in the Parks program (see below for additional information).
Coordinate a trip for matches to a local state fish hatchery, interpretive center, fish ladder or weir to learn about Michigan's fisheries (visit www.michigan.gov/hatcheries for locations and their visiting hours).
Purchase fishing rods and necessary tackle to make available for matches to use during their individual activities.

Fishing-Related Resources:

Fishing in the Parks is a free summer program hosted at various state parks that provides hands-on fishing instruction. A DNR Recreation Passport is required for entry to all Michigan state parks. A fishing license is required for anyone age 17 and older who participates in the program. Fishing in the Parks programs are typically offered May through September. To learn more, click here.

Fishing 101 is a free program available at various state parks that offers intro to fishing instruction. Classes are taught by DNR staff or local volunteers and can be offered all year. A complete calendar of these classes is available online. A DNR Recreation Passport is required for entry to all Michigan state parks. A fishing license is required for anyone age 17 and older who participates in the program. For more information, click here.

Free Fishing Weekend is held one weekend each summer and winter to help engage as many individuals as possible in our state's plentiful recreation opportunities. These events allow anyone to enjoy Michigan's premier fishing for FREE! The summer 2013 Free Fishing Weekend will be held June 8 & 9. For additional information about Free Fishing Weekend as well as planning toolkits for coordinating fishing-related events, click here.

Project FISH is an educational program for youth and families sponsored locally by schools, fishing conservation organizations, and others interested in fishing and Michigan's fisheries. This program offers training opportunities to help adults learn about fishing instruction and aquatic education, particularly with kids. For more information about this program, click here.

Voluntary Youth Fishing License: Although it is not a requirement for youth under 17 years of age to have a fishing license to enjoy Michigan's fishing resources, by purchasing a Voluntary Youth Fishing License, the DNR receives additional funds from the federal government to support fishing programs.The youth fishing license costs only $2, and first time buyers will need to purchase a sportsman's card for an additional $1 for a total $3 investment.