MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Meridian Township Parks & Recreation Department held its annual Fishing Derby Sunday where kids five though 16, came out to participate in a fishing competition.

Held at the Central Park pond in the Meridian Historical Village, the free event brought in over 15 kids. Volunteers helped teach proper techniques while also providing free bait and fishing poles.

The event was held in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources "Free Fishing Weekend," allowing all residents and visitors in Michigan to fish without a license for two days.

"It's free fishing weekend so that's why we had the tournament on this weekend so that way people who don't have a license can come out and try it," said Meridian Township Recreation Intern Travis Larson. "Maybe if they're not sure if they like it or don't want to spend the money on the fishing license, it gets them out here this weekend."

Prizes were awarded after the event for the largest fish, the second largest fish, and the most fish caught.