Local youth anglers are invited to fish from 9 to 11 a.m., or until all the fish have been caught. The tank will be set up at Pavilion 2 near the lake.

Children through age 12 are welcome to test out their skills with the pole. “We ask that each child is accompanied by an adult or guardian,” said Ann Hruska, LAPP treasurer.

The Breitung Township Fire Department has again volunteered to fill the 1,500-gallon mobile pond.

Watersmeet Trout Hatchery will then transfer about 150 rainbow trout into the large pool.

BRANDON WILLIAMS OF Watersmeet Trout Hatchery drops rainbow trout into the large tank at last year’s Free Family Fishing Fun event at Lake Antoine Park in Iron Mountain. (Lake Antoine Park Partners photo)

“No fishing gear is needed,” Hruska said. “Poles and the bait will be ready for the kids to drop into the water.” No fishing license is needed, either, for the children to take part in the free event, she added.

Participants will receive a ticket for their turn at the pond, with no more than 10 lines in at once. Each child will have three minutes to fish.

“After the whistle blows and they didn’t secure a fish at that time, they will be able to receive another ticket to go back in line,” Hruska said.

“This gives everybody a chance to fish,” added LAPP Vice President Doni-Mae B. Rauch.

If fish remain, they will offer an additional ticket to those interested in another session.

The trout average 12 to 14 inches, Rauch said. All caught fish will be bagged for the youth to take home to enjoy with their family.

Hruska noted the event is taking place earlier this year. “There were a couple reasons for the change, as the hatchery wasn’t available at that time but did suggest a cooler month would be better for the trout,” she said, adding the warm water temperatures are thought to be why the trout didn’t bite well last year when held in August.

The LAPP thanked the Breitung Township Fire Department for their extra effort this year. “They will drain their tank and refill it with cold water just prior to the event,” Hruska said. “This will assure the cooler temperature for the fish.”

“We are hoping that this year they are a little more active biting,” Rauch said. “Last year kids got in the pool and were hand fishing.”

The event is a way to let kids with little to no fishing experience, or who perhaps have parents without the means for gear, a chance to try the sport, Rauch said.

“The best part of the event is seeing the young ones that have never fished before having so much fun,” she said.

Last year’s event drew more than 150 participants.

The Iron Mountain Public Art Advisory Committee also will provide a free art activity for the kids during the event.

“They will be set up at the other end of the pavilion, giving kids something to do while they wait their turn,” Hruska said.

This year’s sponsor is Rize U.P. and Royal Tree Cultivating by Rize.

“We couldn’t do this event without sponsorship,” Rauch said. “We are so grateful to be able to continue hosting this great opportunity for area kids with their help.”

LAPP is hoping for a great turnout and encourages local families to come enjoy a day of fishing and activities.

With the support, they plan to continue its Free Family Fishing Fun day in the future.