Take a kid fishing for free

Take a Kid Ice Fishing weekend is Saturday, Jan. 18 through Monday, Jan. 20.

Any Minnesota resident can go fishing for free if fishing with a child 15 years old or younger, who don’t need fishing licenses any time of the year.

“Ice fishing is lots of fun and this weekend is a great time to share the experience with a kid in your life,” said Benji Kohn, volunteer mentor program coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. “If you’re new to ice fishing, check out the helpful how-to and ice safety information on our website or even see if your local community is hosting any ice fishing events this winter.”

Tips and a webinar about taking kids ice fishing can be found at mndnr.gov/takeakidicefishing.

The fishing season for stream trout in lakes outside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness begins Jan. 18. This opener typically features anglers flocking to trout fishing lakes. In addition to fishing, the Minnesota DNR is waiving vehicle permit fees at all 73 state parks and recreation areas on Jan. 20 during Free Park Day. It is expected to be bitterly cold that day, so be sensible before taking on activities at parks such as birding, winter hiking, nature photography, or enjoying a campfire with hot chocolate and s’mores.