DNR Opening day tips

[Lee Borgersen]

Opening day tips for Minnesota anglers

(Released April 24, 2014)

 
Minnesota’s interstates, highways, and county roads will fill with anxious anglers in anticipation of the May 10 fishing opener. The Department of Natural Resources has some tips to anglers for a safe and enjoyable experience. 

“The fishing opener results in a substantial increase in the workload for conservation officers so we are asking for everyone’s help,” said Col. Ken Soring, DNR Enforcement director. “We can assist conservation officers by providing information on common rules and regulations to anglers before the opener.”

Fishing License: All residents and nonresidents age 16 years or older are required to have an appropriate fishing license while angling. Buy a Minnesota fishing license electronically at www.mndnr.gov/buyalicense, at a DNR license agent location, or by calling 888-665-4236. Also, pick up a copy of the 2014 Minnesota Fishing Regulations handbook along with the license as a ready reference guide to limits and transportation of a catch.

Watercraft Registration: Motorized watercraft operators must have their registration on board. The number issued to the boat and the current state validation decal must be displayed on the forward half of the hull on each side of the boat.

Aquatic Invasive Species: Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, and spiny water fleas have affected many Minnesota fresh water ecosystems, but there are ways to stop the spread and protect the resource.
·    Remove any visible plants and animals from boat, trailer, and other boating equipment.
·    Drain water from the boat, livewell, bilge, and impellor by removing drain plugs and open water draining devices before leaving any water access.
·    Spray, rise, or dry boats and recreational equipment before transporting to another water body, especially after leaving zebra mussel and spiny waterflea infested waters.

Experimental and Special Regulations: These regulations help the DNR improve fishing quality, protect unique fisheries, provide more fishing opportunities, or protect threatened species. A partial list of water with experimental or special regulations, which are posted at access sites, is available in the 2014 Minnesota Fishing Regulations handbook at www.mndnr.gov/regulations/fishing.

Turn-in-Poachers: Over-limits, license and closed season violations impact the resource and diminish opportunities for everyone. Tips are received through the 24-hour phone line 800-652-9093.

Access Courtesy:
·    Practice backing a boat trailer prior to the opener. It can prevent a lot of confusion.
·    Transfer gear upon arrival at the public access rather than waiting until it’s time to back the boat into the water.
·    Make sure the outboard is in top running order before arriving at the lake.
·    A secure lock goes a long way in preventing someone from stealing a trailer.

 
Questions? Contact the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157, or 888-646-6367, or via email at: info.dnr@state.mn.us.