Time For Another ‘Take A Kid Fishing Weekend’ In Minnesota

If you're looking for a perfect reason to go ice fishing with your family, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is providing one this weekend.

Another Take a Kid Ice Fishing Weekend is coming Saturday, January 17, through Monday, January 19. That means that during the three-day weekend, any Minnesota resident can go fishing for free if fishing with a child 15 years old or younger. Minnesotans 15 years old or younger don’t need fishing licenses any time of the year.

“Ice fishing is fun. If you’ve ever considered it, this is a great winter to give ice fishing a try,” said Benji Kohn, volunteer mentor program coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

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Ice Fishing Resources Are Available

The DNR says that groups new to ice fishing can find helpful tips, ice safety information, and even a webinar about taking kids ice fishing on the Minnesota DNR Take a Kid Ice Fishing webpage.

It's also worth noting that the fishing season for trout in lakes outside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness begins January 17. The locations of trout fishing lakes and other tools to find trout fishing opportunities are available on the DNR trout fishing webpage.

Another cool thing is that January 19 is another Free Park Day in Minnesota, when the DNR waives vehicle permit fees at all 73 state parks and recreation areas, so people should consider fishing at a state park or recreation area, where they can combine fishing with other outdoor fun.

Recreational opportunities at state parks and recreation areas include birding, winter hiking, nature photography, and enjoying a campfire with hot chocolate and s’mores. People can visit the DNR winter activities guide.

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Remember Ice Safety Guidelines

While temperatures are expected to be very cold this weekend in Minnesota, it has been mild recently, and the DNR wants to remind people to exercise caution on the ice. They stress that it's important not to rely exclusively on condition reports.

People going out on the ice should check the ice and not just for thickness. White ice can be deceiving. If the ice is white, double the ice thickness guidelines for clear ice.

Lastly, following these ice safety guidelines can help minimize the risk:

• Always wear a foam life jacket or float coat on the ice (except when in a vehicle).
• Carry ice picks, rope, an ice chisel, and a tape measure.
• Check ice thickness at regular intervals; conditions can change quickly.
• Bring a cell phone or personal locator beacon.
• Don’t go out alone. Let someone know about the trip plans and the expected return time.
• Before heading out, ask about conditions and known hazards with local experts.
• Parents and guardians should talk with children about staying away from the ice unless there’s adult supervision. This includes lakes and rivers, as well as neighborhood ponds, wetlands, and anywhere ice forms.