What To Know Before Ice Fishing In Minnesota Lakes

It's about this time, most years, many Minnesotans get an itch that they just can't wait to scratch. That itch? Getting out on the ice to drop a line in, catch some fish, and make some memories with friends and family. If you are planning on going out on an area lake in the next week or two, as the ice is looking good, here are 6 things you should know before you go out.

Ice Is Never 100% Safe To Be On

This is a great daily and seasonal reminder that no ice is 100% safe. As you are out on the lake or river, you should be checking the thickness of the ice as you go. What may have 5-7" of nice, clear ice in one area, three feet to the right of left, might only have 3" of poor ice. (unsure how thick the ice should be? Here's a link from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.)

Keep The Ice Clean, Don't Throw Garbage In The Hole

Is there anything more annoying than rolling out onto the lake only to be trudging through someones trash? Or worse, you drop in a line with your favorite lure, only to get it snagged on some trash that someone tossed in the lake. Leave the lake or river better than you found it, and that includes cigarette butts; pick them up, bring along a plastic garbage bag, and toss them out in the proper receptacle.

How Many Lines Can You Have Going?

According to the Minnesota DNR, you can have two lines going, but you need to be within sight of your line, and if you are running tip-ups, you must be within 200ft of them. Now, there are some exceptions to having two lines; you can make sure you are legally fishing by reading through the online fishing regulations here.

All Shelters Need A License*

Congrats on that new Ice Castle! Before you take it out on the lake, make sure you get your shelter license. Not sure how that works? Here's a link. *Got a portable shelter, see below.

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You'll Need A License For That Portable Shelter When

It's left unattended between midnight and 1 hour before sunrise or when anglers aren't within 200 feet of the shelter.

Know Your Limits & Have Your License

If you are heading out on the lake or river, know what you are legally allowed to take and what you can't take. It's different on different bodies of water, so having a copy of the fishing regulations is helpful. Also, I know I've forgotten mine once or twice and had to double back, but pack your fishing license.

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