Fishing Opener Should Be Good

DNR officials say the walleye fishing opener this weekend should be good.

Fisheries and Wildlife Outreach Chief C.B. Bylander says the fish numbers are strong on Gull, Whitefish and North Long lakes in the Brainerd Lakes Area.  That, combined with water temperatures about 18 days ahead of normal, should produce a good bite.

Bylander says every year there are some changes in the regulations, and recommends anglers turn to page four in the regulations booklet.  There are new laws dealing with the spread of invasive aquatic species. 

The water below the Gull Lake Dam will be restricted this weekend.  Otherwise, because of the early spawn, most other waters are open to angling. 

Bylander says anglers may have to fish a little deeper this opener, because of the record early ice-out.