DNR Issues Important Fishing Opener Warning For Portion Of Minnesota

Minnesota's fishing opener is this Saturday, May 9, and it's one of those weekends that doesn't sneak up on anyone in this state. It's circled on the calendar all winter, and this year is no exception.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates about half a million people will be out fishing on opening day alone, making it, as one DNR fisheries manager put it, one of Minnesota's unofficial state holidays.

It's also a multi-billion-dollar industry, and for many communities in Greater Minnesota, one of the most important economic weekends of the year.

Statewide, the DNR says the fishing outlook for northern Minnesota is excellent this year, with normal ice-out expected to keep fish active and in their post-spawn feeding patterns.

However, if you're headed to northeast Minnesota this weekend, there is an important warning from the Minnesota DNR that anglers need to be aware of.

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Low Water Levels Could Make Things Difficult In Northeast Minnesota

Persistent dry conditions this spring have left water levels lower than normal across parts of northeast Minnesota, and the DNR is cautioning boaters that launching watercraft may be more difficult than usual at some public access sites.

According to the DNR, much of Cass and Itasca counties, along with small sections of neighboring counties, are currently in moderate drought conditions, meaning water levels on many lakes and rivers simply did not get their normal spring recharge.

"With unusually low water levels in northeast Minnesota, people launching larger boats and pontoons with longer trailers will need to pay extra special attention to ramp lengths and depths," said Nancy Stewart, Minnesota DNR water recreation consultant.

Boaters should also watch for obstructions such as rocks and sandbars that are not normally an issue at this time of year. The DNR offers the following tips for launching in low water conditions:

• Have a spotter in the boat while launching so your trailer tires and boat axles don't fall off the last plank where an existing blowhole may be present.
• Have hip boots or waders and a life jacket handy, as it may help to get in the water and guide your boat. Check the ramp for firmness and water depth before launching.
• Lower the motor only after you are sure there is enough water depth.
• Use a lake map as a guide to avoid shallow areas and watch for obstructions.

If you encounter an issue at a DNR public access site due to low water levels, you can report conditions to your local DNR office or the DNR Information Center at 888-646-6367.

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DNR staff will monitor sites and make modifications where possible. For DNR public access site dock-in dates and water access maps, visit the DNR's public water access page.

One More Reason To Get Out There This Weekend

Beyond the opener itself, this weekend carries another great reason to get on the water. Take a Mom Fishing Weekend is happening statewide this Saturday and Sunday, when Minnesota moms can fish without a license. It's one of the nicer traditions on the outdoor calendar, falling on Mother's Day weekend every year since it was established in 1988.

The Minnesota DNR is also once again hosting the Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge. In this free virtual fishing challenge, moms submit photos of the fish they catch during Mother's Day weekend for a chance to win prizes.

During the 2025 challenge, more than 2,700 Minnesota moms participated, catching 1,600 fish. All the details on how to register and enter are at the link above.