Fishing Opener is Once Again Upon Us!

May 8, 2013

The day that Minnesota anglers wait for all year is finally almost here. This Saturday, May 11, is the official Minnesota walleye and northern pike fishing opener.

One major concern on all Minnesota fishermen’s minds is the weather. After having the earliest ice out ever last year, the spring of 2013 followed with the latest ice out on Minnesota lakes. As of today, the weather forecast for the Leech Lake area this weekend is 49 degrees and partly cloudy on Saturday and 58 degrees and sunny on Sunday.

Even though the weather is finally starting to warm up, the water temperatures will be colder than normal this year. Cold water can not only affect fishing conditions, but it can also be dangerous. People are urged to be extra cautious this year and wear life vests at all times.

Another concern brought on by the colder than usual spring weather is that the larger Minnesota lakes, including Leech Lake, will probably still have ice covering at least some parts of them come Saturday morning. That gives anglers the options of either trying to find a spot of safe ice to fish on or to look for open water.

The good news is that ice or no ice, the Minnesota fishing opener is still on for this Saturday. Even if it is a little colder than usual, a weekend of Leech Lake fishing is the perfect way to relax after a hectic week!