While checking some bait store websites, many were asking customers to purchase licenses online or over the phone, among other distancing procedures like only letting four people in at a time. That could be slow going before the opener. I used to like to buy my licenses in person, especially from TGO in Ely, but, sadly, that ended and now the virus.

I chose to call the MN DNR this Sunday morning and got right through. It was easy and cheaper than in person, too. They didn’t charge a $2.50 fee or add on postage to mail it. It was $10 total for Trout Stamp. I may get all my Licenses this way from now on.

I may have to pre buy some jumbo leeches from the local bait store and get curbside delivery now, unless Door Dash can bring them to my house. I will miss browsing in the bait stores for now.

Last year I bought my trout stamp from my phone on highway 61 somewhere between tofte and grand marais. They don't even require paper copies anymore.