By Jason Chavis
Minnesota Ice Fishing Rules
Ice fishing in Minnesota is one of the most popular pastimes for residents and tourists. Due to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' efforts to maintain environmental standards and enforce regulations, a number of rules must be followed when ice fishing in the state. These rules involve everything from licensing to the number of lines an angler can have in the water. Additional rules apply to the use of ice houses, shelters that protect individuals from the elements while on the lake.
Licensing
In order to legally ice fish in Minnesota, each resident over the age of 15 is required to have a fishing license. As of 2009, these licenses cost $17. Life-long licenses are available for different costs depending on the age of the individual.
Limitations
When ice fishing, only two lines are allowed to be placed into the water per individual. This helps minimize the environmental impact of ice fishing. In addition to this rule, each angler must remain within 200 feet of his lines.
Ice Houses
Ice fishing is generally conducted inside enclosures known as ice houses. These small shed-like shelters protect anglers from elements such as wind and snow. Each of these houses must be labeled with the owner's name and address.
Lake Safety
Each year, the State of Minnesota determines the safe times to place ice houses on the lakes, and when to remove them. This depends on the thickness of ice on the lake. At least 2.5 inches are needed for walking, six inches for sleds and ice houses, 12 for cars and 14 for trucks.
Fish
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, all fish on the ice must remain intact with their heads, tails, fins and skin. The only exception to this rule applies to the consumption of the fish while on the lake.
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:
Andreaze; Public Domain
