The ice fishing season has ended for most of the state, and some areas now offer open water angling. So far, ice out dates have been very early this year. Heavy midweek rainfall and warm temperatures should lead to more open water angling opportunities by this weekend. Learn more at the DNR’s 2021 Lake Ice Out Dates map and web page.
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, anglers need to be extremely cautious on and around the ice since conditions can change rapidly, sometimes in a matter of hours. Anyone that does venture out onto late season ice should wear a life jacket, carry ice picks and use a chisel to check ice thickness frequently.
Learn more about ice safety.
Minnesota fishing opener dates for the 2021-2022 fishing season for most inland waters are as follows. Stream trout: April 17; walleye, sauger, northern pike, bass (catch-and-release) and lake trout: May 15; muskie: June 5. The fishing season for crappies, sunnies, perch and catfish is continuous. Before dropping a line, brush up on Minnesota’s rules, regulations and other helpful information for fishing.
Northeast Region
The Rainy River boat launches downstream from International Falls are entirely open and the walleye are biting! Once the inland lakes are ice-free, hit the weedy areas of the small to medium-sized lakes using a jig tipped with a live waxworm or soft plastic.
Northwest Region
Rainy River anglers are having success with the walleye and this bite should continue to heat up. Many boat ramps are now open, including Nelson Park in Birchdale, Frontier, and Vidas near Clementson.
Central Region
Anglers eager to fish should grab their summer fishing gear and head to a nearby river. New fishing regulations have been enacted for walleye fishing on Lake Mille Lacs this year.
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