By Jason Chavis
Information on Fishing in Minnesota
Minnesota's nickname is "The Land of 10,000 Lakes." As such, fishing is a very prominent recreational activity as well as a good source for food. According to the state's statistics, nearly one million people take part each year, and fishing-related revenue as of 2008 was reported at $4.7 billion. Fishing occurs year round, with certain rules and regulations in place due to the time of year and type of fish being sought.
Geography
Minnesota supports 11,842 lakes, including the largest section of Lake Superior on the continent. The state also features 6,564 rivers and streams that flow over the course of 69,000 miles. This makes Minnesota one of the most available places in the world to fish.
Considerations
Licensing is required to fish in Minnesota. For residents and visitors, the costs generally cover a short term such as one day or a yearly license. Options for spear fishing also exist. There are additional costs for trout and walleye fishing.
Features
Minnesota has nearly 2,000 public access sites from which to launch a boat. The majority of these are open 24 hours per day and require no license or fee. The access sites can accommodate 12- to 18-foot boats for both trailers and carry-in options.
Warning
The lakes throughout Minnesota are subject a number of major invasive species that threaten to damage the ecosystem. Animal life such as carp, New Zealand mud snail, spiny water flea and the zebra mussel can damage water bodies. Aquatic plants include curly-leaf pondweed, purple loosestrife and Eurasion watermilfoil.
Significance
Unlike many other parts of the country, fishing does not stop in Minnesota for the winter. Both residents and visitors can take part in the Scandinavian tradition of ice fishing. Specialized houses are placed atop frozen lakes that enable people to fish during the winter.
Resources
About the Author:
Jason lives and works out of Minneapolis. After 11 years of professional writing, he is the author of four books, two movies and a play as well as numerous articles for Scientific American, The History Channel, City Pages and The Onion. Jason is a graduate of the film school at USC.
Photo Credits:
PxMa; GNU Free Documentation License
