MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The Meridian Township Parks & Recreation Department will be hosting the annual Meridian Ice Fishing Derby for ages 5-16 on February 14, 2015.

The event will take place from 9am-12pm at the Central Park Pond located at 5151 Marsh Road, Okemos, MI. Prizes will be awarded for first fish caught, largest fish caught, second largest, and smallest.

It also takes place during the "Free Fishing Weekend" offered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. This means that all residents of and visitors to Michigan will be allowed to fish without a license.

Life jackets, fishing supplies, and bait will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis, and it is recommended that participants bring their own gear.

For more information contact Greg Grothous at (517) 853-4616 or grothous@meridian.mi.us. You can also visit www.meridian.mi.us.