I was traveling on the Indian Sioux yesterday when I noticed three guys fishing below Elm portage. I did not inquire what they were fishing for but my guess is that they were fishing out of season. Thoughts?

dont know this area or species of fish there , but whats on the end of there line could dictate a citation , i was questioned 1 time for show pics of little bass out of season , we were casting small jig spinners for crappies , so there can be a gray area , the officer on hand would have to make a judgement call in a situation. i'll add this , they would be watch before being approached.

check out page 22 of MN fishing regulations for 2017. there are several species of fish that are open continuous. www.dnr.state.mn.us

If I'd make a guess they were fishing for walleye based on the minnows I later found on the portage. Walleye and northern are the dominant species in this area.

Some friends of mine who are new to fishing seemed to have no idea about species being our of season untill may. It was very ignorant on their behalf to suggest going bass fishing last month, but I made sure to outline what was on the menu untill opener. Ignorance along with general disregard for the law is pandemic.

However I would like to give people the benefit of the doubt as much as possible. Could there be crappie? Were the minnows "crappie minnows"? I would guess they were up to no good but unfortunately this area of the law is very grey.

Sounds a little fishy :)

quote murphylakejim: "Some friends of mine who are new to fishing seemed to have no idea about species being our of season untill may. It was very ignorant on their behalf to suggest going bass fishing last month, but I made sure to outline what was on the menu untill opener. Ignorance along with general disregard for the law is pandemic.


However I would like to give people the benefit of the doubt as much as possible. Could there be crappie? Were the minnows "crappie minnows"? I would guess they were up to no good but unfortunately this area of the law is very grey."

being on a few fishing forums , i was surprised at how many states dont have a closed season or limits and being able to leave tip ups out over night with just your name on it , Hmmm i wonder why they come to minnesota ,,,,

Yep, when I moved to Ely for the canoeing season back in '07, it seemed to be strange to have to wait until the middle of May before I could go fishing. In Ohio, I could go fishing whenever I liked. Never had to wait on an "opener" before.

Could always go to Rainy River till April 14th and catch pigs like this 31" my buddy got.