RAPID RIVER — Kids Fishing Day will be held on Saturday, June 9, from 11 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at Camp 7 Lake Campground. Designed for kids up to 16 years of age, the purpose of Kids Fishing Day is to introduce youngsters to the joy of fishing. The free event typically draws 300 youngsters each year. This is Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekend, a time when all fishing license fees are waived for residents and out-of-state visitors alike.

Thanks to generous donations from area businesses and service organizations, the first 300 youngsters will receive a free raffle prize. Free hot dogs, chips and soda donated by local merchants from Manistique, Escanaba, Gladstone and Rapid River will be served up by the Bay de Noc Great Lakes Sports Fishermen. New this year will be some special grand prizes.

This free, fun-filled day includes over a dozen outdoor activities that includes casting contests, minnow races, face painting, free food, and two fishing ponds for kids ages 12 and under. Professional fisherman Greg Karch will be there with his “Backyard Bass” gear and will teach youngsters how to cast, how to tie knots and will autograph tee shirts for successful casters. Kids will also be able to learn how to fly fish.

Kid’s Fishing Day is made possible thanks to the Bay de Noc Great Lakes Sport Fishermen, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Unlimited of Delta County, the Hiawatha National Forest and the cooperation of many volunteers, local merchants and service organizations.