The fishing opener is not just another day across the state of Minnesota. It is a day many people take to head up to the lake and find a way to catch some fish. It is almost a right of passage to be in the boat and cast the first reel of the year.

Yet, will the boat launches be ready for the opener?

According to the Minnesota DNR, crews are still out trying to tackle boat launches to ge them ready in time for the opener on Minnesota lakes.

"DNR crews statewide are making good progress preparing public water accesses for the upcoming fishing season,” said Nancy Stewart, the DNR’s water recreation program consultant. “Once the ice is off, they inspect boat ramps, repair them if needed, and put the docks in the water.”

There are roughly 3,000 public water access sites statewide, and the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division manages about half of them.

“Boaters will find good launch conditions at most public accesses for the fishing opener,” Stewart said.

Be sure to call ahead if you plan on heading up to the lake this weekend for the opener to make sure that everything is ready to go!

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