Take A Kid Ice Fishing Weekend Starts Saturday in Minnesota

Some quality outdoor time with kids is always a great idea and Minnesotans have the perfect opportunity coming up this weekend. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced that it's Take A Kid Ice Fishing Weekend across the state.

Take A Kid Ice Fishing Weekend means that from Saturday, January 16 through Monday, January 18, Minnesota residents age 16 or older can fish or dark-house spear without an angling or spearing license if they take a child younger than 16 fishing or spearing.

“Ice fishing is lots of fun and is another way to enjoy the outdoors,” said Benji Kohn, volunteer mentor program coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. “If you’re looking to start ice fishing, check out our helpful information online.”

Also, any women who would like to brush up on their ice skills are welcome to participate in the DNR's Becoming an Outdoors Woman program, which is presenting an ice fishing webinar from noon to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 14. During the webinar, pro angler Mandy Uhrich will teach the basics of ice fishing and demonstrate the equipment and techniques used for this winter tradition. The webinar is free, open to the public and registration is required.  You can click here to register now.

If you are heading out ice fishing, the DNR also reminds all anglers that ice conditions vary and there is no such thing as 100 percent safe ice.  Checking local ice conditions is crucial before heading out to a lake or river.

You can click on the button below to get more details on that as well as other great ice fishing tips to help you have a successful season.