Hooked on Downtown: Search for the Smallmouth
July 3 - July 30
Get Hooked on Downtown Owosso this July with a month-long scavenger hunt!
Each week, five smallmouth bass that swam their way out of the Shiawassee River and into downtown window displays will be hidden in the storefronts of participating businesses. Visitors are invited to explore downtown, search for the smallmouth, and discover local shops, restaurants, and service providers along the way.
Participants who find all five fish + complete a questionnaire via QR code on the event flyer will be entered into weekly prize drawings featuring tote bags filled with products and gift cards from downtown businesses.
Each week also features a “Best Dressed Bass” award, where the community votes for the business that most creatively incorporated or decorated the fish within their window display.
With new hiding spots each week, there’s always a fresh opportunity to play, explore, and win.
This program is part of a pilot initiative supporting Owosso Main Street’s long-term goal of creating a future storefront competition and activating downtown through arts, culture, and community engagement.
So grab your friends, bring your curiosity, and get ready to explore… because once you start, you might just get hooked on Downtown Owosso!
Week 1 (July 3-9) Clues:
- All five fish are hiding along downtown’s Main Channel (Street).
- Three fish are hiding on the same block, on the same side of the street.
- Keep your eyes up—we’ve got a flying fish this week! He landed in a second-story window.
- One fish has become quite the handyman this week.
- You’ll discover entertainment, sweet treats, and plenty more along the way.
Week 2 (July 10-16) Clues:
💇 One fish is making waves where you can get a fancy snip and style.
🕰 Two fish are swimming among treasures from the past.
🍩 One fish found a sweet spot to hang out for morning treats.
👟 One is in a business that has been putting its best foot forward for generations.
🌊 Follow the current along North Washington Street to find them all!
Week 3 (July 17-23) Clues: COMING SOON!
Week 4 (July 24-30) Clues: COMING SOON!
Participating Businesses: 10 Computer Repair & More • Boojie Salon • Drizzle Cakes and Bakes • Gilberts Hardware and Appliance • Great Lakes Apparel Co. • Itsa Deli Thing • Marketplace on Washington • Lebowsky Center for Performing Arts • Norm Henry Shoes • Oak & Ivory Clothing Co. • Itsa Bakery Thing • Nellie’s Smell Goods Handmade Hub • Rustic Owl Furnishings • Taphouse Specialty Meat Market • Vintage Vibes & More • AZEE Branding Agency • Murtle’s Handmade Chocolates • J’s Tux & Bridal Boutique • Niche Bar • The Home Office Realty
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Do I have to go inside the businesses?
Nope! All five smallmouth bass are displayed in storefront windows and can be found from the sidewalk. Some businesses tucked their fish among merchandise, while others got creative by incorporating them into their window displays.
Can I search after businesses close?
Absolutely! The fish and the Hooked on Downtown flyer with the QR code are visible 24/7, so you can play whenever it’s convenient for you.
Do I have to take the fish or snap a photo?
Nope! Simply find all five fish, then scan the QR code on the flyer displayed next to one of them. The entry form will ask you:
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- Which five businesses you found the fish at
- Which fish deserves your vote for Best Dressed Bass
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Tip: Keep track of the business names and fish colors as you search—you’ll need both to complete your entry!