When waking up on a sunny summer day in Sault Ste. Marie, the inevitable, “what can we do today?” will come out of the mouth of at least one person before you take your first sip of coffee in the morning. Luckily, there is a solution that will appease even the pickiest critic: The kids fishing pond at Rotary Park!

This Soo activity checks all of the boxes: You don’t have to drive too far, its an activity for any age range of kids to do together, there is food nearby, a gorgeous view, and it’s free! And, there is no fishing license required for children 16 and under, so all you need to do pack up the sunscreen, fishing poles and head out!

Located about 2 miles from downtown Sault Ste. Marie, the Kids Fishing Pond was established over 10 years ago and has been a staple of the community ever since. 

With Clyde’s Drive-In right across the parking lot and a classic playground adjacent to the pond, you are in for a day of casting lines, silly jokes, French fries and milkshakes.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the sound of the Sugar Island Ferry horn as it makes its way across the St. Marys River to pick up and drop off island residents and visitors. You are almost guaranteed to spot a freighter or tugboat up close and personal as well! Spending time at the fishing pond means sights and sounds that are uniquely Pure Michigan.

There is something so pure and honest about an afternoon fishing with kids. The excitement from getting a tug on the line and the squeals of joy when they reel in their own catch is so special.

Looking around at the other families around the pond, you will find extraordinarily moments. It may seem so ordinary to see a dad helping his son cast or see sisters fishing together on the dock, but these are moments where memories are made.

After a day like today, we will definitely be checking out the 2019  “Future Anglers” clinic on Friday, July 26th and the Connor Gorsuch Kids Fishing Day that always happens the last Saturday in July. This year it is July 27th. Click HERE for details. 

Be sure to tag your photographs with #ilovethesoo on your social media so we can share in all of your Sault Ste. Marie adventures! For more on local Soo fishing and beyond follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.