Cooler Waters may make Fishing Opener Tough for Anglers

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM/KVRR) – Thousands of Minnesotans will be back on the water this weekend for Minnesota’s fishing opener.

Just last week there was some concern that ice could hamper the fishing opener across much of the Northern part of the state, but with recent warm temperatures nearly all lakes throughout the state are ice free.

Governor Tim Walz will kick off the 2022 Walleye season this weekend in Cass Lake hosted by the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in hopes of catching a Walleye or two. Minnesota DNR Fisheries Manager Brad Parsons, however says the cooler waters this year might make the opener a little tougher, “With the cooler water this year, the fish might be a little shallower. You might wanna fish a little more live bait than really aggressive type things. You might want to consider smaller lakes that tend to warm up a little bit faster. I also always encourage you even when you’re on the lake to have a plan B. Walleyes don’t always cooperate, that’s why it’s called fishing and not catching.”

Anglers are also encouraged to review special regulations, consumption advisories and follow state laws to prevent Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) by cleaning aquatic plants and debris from watercraft, draining lake or river water and keeping drain plugs out during transport, as well as disposing of unwanted bait in the trash, not in the water.