Bring the family to fish at Minnesota state parks

Instead of recounting fish stories to family members after the Minnesota fishing opener, why not let family be a part of the story?

In most cases, Minnesotans don't need a license if they are fishing in a state park. Once hooked on fishing, who knows how many of Minnesota’s other 5,400 fishing lakes they might want to explore? Details on fishing in state parks can be found at www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/fishing.

In Minnesota, a state park is never far away. Consider some of these destinations:

• South – Fort Snelling State Park lets those in the metro area fish without a license and without racking up miles. Fish the Minnesota or Mississippi rivers. More at www.mndnr.gov/state_parks/fort_snelling.

• East – At Interstate State Park, it’s easy to explore the St. Croix River with a fishing pole in hand. More at www.mndnr.gov/state_parks/interstate/index.

• West – In Monson Lake State Park, cast a line for walleye, northern pike, sunfish, and for bass after the season opens on May 24. A canoe portage lets paddlers get from Monson Lake to Sunburg Lake, and camping is located between the two. More at www.mndnr.gov/state_parks/monson_lake.

• North – At Bear Head Lake State Park, fish in a pristine setting in Bear Head Lake. Note that Cub and Norberg lakes require trout stamps. More at www.mndnr.gov/state_parks/bear_head_lake.

Tips for beginners

Beginning anglers of all ages can learn basic skills at the free I Can Fish! programs offered at several Minnesota state parks throughout the summer. These hands-on programs cover fish identification, casting, knot-tying and more. Check the online calendar at www.mndnr.gov/ican for a complete schedule.