Become an angler!

We have a variety of fishing experiences you can choose from year-round, ranging in price from a free introduction to more in-depth programs and workshops for a fee.

For all fishing programs:

• All equipment is provided. We recommend participants use the equipment provided.
• Adaptive fishing equipment is available.
• The Outdoor Adventure Center does not secure personal equipment. Equipment must be stored outside of the building by participants who wish to visit the exhibit area after a fishing program.

Department of Natural Resources Hook, Line and Sinker program

These fishing classes in state parks are offered free of charge, and participants under 17 do not need a fishing license.

Join Outdoor Adventure Center staff at Milliken State Park for free fishing classes this summer (June-August) on select Saturday mornings from 9-11 a.m. This program is recommended for ages 3 or older.

Learn casting and fishing basics such as:

• Setting up a fishing pole.
• Parts of a fish.
• Basic casting. Learn drop-cast and underhand casting.
• Selecting and using bait.
• Removing fish from the hook.

Please add your name to our contact list to receive notifications about the OAC’s drop-in schedule for Hook, Line and Sinker programs. Notifications will be emailed on Thursdays only for the weeks when the Saturday program is planned.

The DNR offers Hook, Line and Sinker classes at state parks throughout Michigan. To learn more about additional locations, visit the DNR Fishing classes webpage.

Outdoor fishing programs

Ice fishing

This program is offered during Michigan DNR Winter Free Fishing Weekend in February.

Get Hooked on Fishing

These programs are offered Saturdays and Sundays during the summer (June-August) at Milliken State Park and Belle Isle Park. Participants must be 8 years of age or older. Preregistration is required. Cost is per family (for five or fewer people).

Get Hooked on Fishing participants will have the opportunity to learn and do the following:

• Identifying fish.
• Setting up a fishing pole.
• Intermediate casting. Review drop-casting and underhand casting. Learn overhead and side casting.
• Selecting different types of bait and putting it on your hook.

Check our activity schedule for upcoming outdoor fishing program dates.

Workshops

We offer a variety of fishing workshops throughout the year that focus on fishing equipment and types of fishing and, on occasion, partner with the DNR Outdoor Skills Academy. These often take place indoors in a classroom setting but sometimes feature an outdoor component.

These workshops may include:

• Presentations from DNR Fisheries and Law Enforcement divisions.
• Make-and-take tackle projects.

Personal equipment may be brought in for specific workshops. Please read the program description upon registration.

Check our activity schedule for upcoming fishing workshops dates.