Holly, MI Police Officers Hand Out Free Fishing Rods to Youth

Officer Bob Goedertier and Officer Owen Foster picked up quality rod and reel combinations. The gear came from Auburn Hills Bass Pro Shop. Officers brought the equipment to the police department. The donation provided fishing poles for young local residents.

Free Fishing Gear for Village Youth

The Holly Police Department announced its Annual Rod and Reel Donation Day. The program offered free rod and reel sets to village youth. Residents age 5 to 16 were eligible. Each child received one set. Supplies were first come, first served. Distribution took place in the police lobby. Lobby hours ran Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Saturday hours were 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Off-Duty Officers Collect Additional Equipment

The program saw overwhelming success. Bass Pro Shops donated more poles. The department shared an update on June 12, 2026, at 9:06 AM. Off-duty police staff gathered extra equipment. The new fishing rods arrived after 12:30 PM. Officers distributed the gear directly to local kids.

Encouraging Outdoor Play Across Michigan

The department promoted the Michigan Department of Natural Resources program. The DNR scheduled Three Free Weekend for June 13 and 14. The event included free fishing, ORVing, and state park entry. Police included hashtags #getoffthephone and #gooutsideandplay in their post. Community police initiatives connect officers with youth. Youth fishing programs encourage outdoor activity.

Supporting Law Enforcement and Local Families

Community events build trust between police officers and residents. You can support our mission to honor officers and their ongoing programs by making a donation. Visit our stories page to read more positive accounts of police service.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do officers encourage children to participate in outdoor fishing?

Officers promote outdoor fishing to encourage active physical lifestyles and reduce screen time among local children. Engaging in outdoor recreation helps young residents build patience, connect with nature, and establish positive personal relationships with law enforcement officers in a relaxed and supportive community environment.

2. How do off-duty police staff support community youth giveaways?

Off-duty police personnel frequently volunteer their personal time to transport, organize, and distribute donated equipment for local events. Officers coordinate logistics and assist with station pickups during busy giveaway hours to guarantee that every available fishing rod reaches a participating local youth efficiently.

3. What role do police station lobbies play during equipment drives?

Police station lobbies serve as safe, accessible public pickup locations for department gear distribution events. Utilizing station lobbies allows officers to welcome visiting families directly, answer community questions, and build friendly connections with local residents in a welcoming and secure public space.

Sources:

• Story and Image Source: Holly Police Department

• Additional Reporting: Holly Police to give away free fishing poles to young residents