Before the Opener...
When you buy your fishing license this year, pick up a copy of Minnesota Fishing Regulations 2010, and check out the Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!TM ad with Kent Hrbek on the back, reminding you to CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY!
www.dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/fishing/
Information about invasive species is also on page 14 and 15, identifying the species and explaining the law.
Remember, it is unlawful to:
- transport aquatic plants, ruffe, round gobies, zebra mussels, or other prohibited invasive species on public roads;
- transport infested water (including in livewells and bait containers)
- launch a watercraft with aquatic plants, zebra mussels or prohibited species attached; and
- harvest bait (minnows, smelt, frogs, crayfish or other wild animals) from infested waters.
Also, at this time of year it is easy for hypothermia to sneak up on you, whether you are fishing, boating, paddling, or hiking. Find out the symptoms and how to plan ahead at: www.seagrant.umn.edu/coastal_communities/hypothermia.
Have a great opener!
By Sea Grant Staff
March 2010
