ST PAUL, Minn — Anyone who has spent time in a boat chasing fish knows that luck is always part of the equation. But knowledge and preparation also play a big role in the level of success, and the Minnesota DNR is ready to help as the 2024 fishing opener rapidly approaches.
Know which of Minnesota's lakes, rivers and streams you might be targeting for the May 11 Fishing Opener? DNR fisheries agents have prepared specific regional outlooks for the upcoming season, sharing information on lake and river options, public access for boats, recent fish population surveys and regulations that anglers will need to follow.
The state is divided up into four regions: northwest, northeast, central and southern. All have their own unique characteristics and fish populations.
Based on reports from across the state, the DNR said anglers have a lot to look forward to — especially with an early ice-out this year and lake surveys that show good year classes of walleye in many lakes, said Brad Parsons, DNR fisheries section manager.
“Walleye fishing will be really good and we really hope people can get out and enjoy it early in the season,” Parsons said. “But we have all kinds of other fish out there too and, particularly if the walleye aren’t cooperating, we encourage anglers to try catching something else. Back bays of lakes are great for finding abundant bluegill and crappie. Northern pike are almost always willing to bite and there are all kinds of other native species out there like sucker species, freshwater drum and others that can really provide a lot of action and good food fare."
No matter where you go, the DNR reminded all anglers about the importance of being safe on the water, being smart, using life jackets and remaining sober. The department also stressed the role anglers play in stopping the spread of invasive species to lakes that so far are unaffected by zebra mussels, milfoil, starry stonewort and other pests.
DNR Commissioner Sara Strommen said Minnesota isn't satisfied with the status quo when it comes to fishing. Strommen said the state is spending millions on creating more boat access points, improving existing launches, modernizing hatcheries to stock lakes, rivers and streams, and maximizing shore angling options so a boat isn't needed to enjoy the sport.
The commissioner added that fishing in Minnesota is more than a sport, it's also an economic driver that accounts for $4.4 billion of the state's $11 billion outdoor recreation industry.
"This is one of our favorite times of year," Strommen reflected, talking about her family's love of angling. "We already got our boat out of storage, and I'm ready to hit open water. And the cool thing is knowing you're one of more than a million Minnesotans who will be out fishing this summer season."
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