Explore Minnesota Casts for First Anglers of the Season

Explore Minnesota has released its first fishing reports of the year.

Reports have been very limited, with fewer anglers venturing out due to changing ice conditions, as well as thick snow hindering vehicle travel earlier this week. Those with snowmobiles and ATVs, however, can still take advantage of the excellent end of season ice fishing action in the northern regions. This is a great time to catch jumbo perch, slab crappies and hefty bluegills, and there is an extended season for walleye, sauger and northern pike on most of the border waters.

Temperature, snow cover, currents, springs and rough fish all affect the stability of ice which could be two feet thick in one place and one inch thick a few yards away. It is important to check ice depth at least every 150 feet—anglers are expected to exercise caution and check ice depth often. According to the Minnesota DNR, 4 inches of new, clear ice is the minimum thickness recommended for travel by foot. A minimum of 5 inches of new, clear ice is recommended for snowmobiles and ATV's, and at least 8-12 inches of new, clear ice is advised for cars and small trucks. Items recommended for checking ice thickness include an ice chisel, ice auger, cordless drill and a tape measure. Anglers heading out onto the ice should also carry ice claws and a long rope, and wear a floatation device and ice cleats. Check out the Minnesota DNR's Ice Safety web page before heading out, and consult with a local bait shop and lakeside resort for the most current ice conditions.

Dark houses, fish houses and portables must be off the ice no later than midnight, March 4, for bodies of water south of Hwy 10, Hwy 34, Hwy 200 and Hwy 2. Dark houses, fish houses and portables must be off the ice no later than midnight, March 18, for bodies of water north of Hwy 10, Hwy 34, Hwy 200 and Hwy 2. Fish houses on Minnesota-Canada border waters are allowed through midnight, March 31.

Minnesota fishing opener dates for the 2013/2014 fishing season for most inland waters are as follows: walleye, sauger, northern pike and lake trout, May 11; largemouth and smallmouth bass, May 25; muskie, June 1. The fishing season for crappies, sunnies, perch and catfish is continuous. Please note that seasons and regulations vary for certain boundary waters and some individual lakes and rivers--consult the Minnesota DNR Fishing Seasons and Minnesota DNR Fishing Regulations websites for the most current information. And don't miss the 2013 Governor's Fishing Opener held May 10 & 11 in the city of Park Rapids--a community picnic and festival will be offered Friday afternoon and evening, May 10.

Anglers may obtain fishing licenses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by dialing 1-888-665-4236, or accessing DNR License Sales. The website is http://www.exploreminnesota.com/.