Fishing Opener In Minnesota

Fishing seasons in Minnesota are determined by the state Department of Natural Resources. Seasons vary somewhat by species and location, although the statewide opener for walleye and northern pike is the most popular and draws the most attention from the public. Anglers should check regulations each year for precise dates for their favorite target species and locations.

Continuous Seasons

Some species of fish in Minnesota have no closed season, so obviously there is no season opener each spring. These species include rough fish, such as bullheads and catfish, and pan fish, such as sunfish and crappies. Proper licensing is required to pursue these species even if season limits do not apply.

Trout

Trout in rivers, creeks or streams traditionally have the earliest opening fishing opportunity each year. The 2010 season opened on April 17 statewide. However, trout streams in the southeast part of the state have a closing date earlier than the rest of the state. Trout in lakes opened on May 15 in 2010.

Bass

Smallmouth bass fishing in northeastern Minnesota opens earlier than the rest of the bass fishing in the state. In 2010, the northeast smallmouth season opened on May 15, while the rest of the state opened two weeks later for both largemouth and smallmouth bass. In addition, a statewide catch and release smallmouth season begins in the fall and continues through the ice fishing season.

Muskellunge

Commonly called muskie, the muskellunge is traditionally the latest season opener in Minnesota fishing regulations. In 2010, the season began during the first week of June and was the only season beginning later than May.

Walleye and Northern

The most revered of the Minnesota fishing openers are for two of the most popular species in the state. The walleye opener is often celebrated by family excursions to lake cabins, and even draws the attention of the governor, according to the website Explore Minnesota. Minnesota law requires the walleye opener be held two Saturdays before Memorial Day each year, according to the website of the television station Fox 9 in Minneapolis. This often puts the opener on Mother's Day weekend, forcing many anglers to make a choice between Mom and fishing. Some make a point of going fishing with Mom.