Fishing opener is an exciting time for folks shaking off winter blues and the sight of open water with daydreams of catching the big one.
While preoccupied with getting the boat and gear ready it is also time to get our safety mindset ready.
Are all life vests in good condition, correct size, fit correctly, ready to wear, Coast Guard approved, and easily available in case of emergency? There is no life vest designed for kids under 6 months old and under 16 pounds. Wait until they grow up!
MN DNR top five boating safety tips:
• Wear your life jacket and make sure kids wear theirs too. It is required until 10 years old.
• Stay sober, booze and boating do not mix and is the #1 reason for fatalities.
• Tell a friend where you are going and when returning home.
• Be weather aware! Don’t let a storm sneak up to you, keep an eye on the sky. Check forecasts before leaving.
• Have boat smarts, know your boat. Take the DNR boat safety course. Stay alert on the lake. Know buoy symbol meaning. Stay seated and low to prevent going overboard.
Other important regulations are any boat 16 ft and longer requires a class IV throwable flotation and a whistle that can be heard up to ½ mile. Navigation lights required for dusk to dawn operation. Starting July 1, 2026, operators must possess a valid watercraft operators permit if 26 years old or younger.
Be good stewards of our lakes and rivers to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). The following are required by law:
• Clean off all visible plants (dead or alive), mud, and debris off boat and trailer before leaving the water access.
• Drain water from live wells, bait containers, and boat bottom. Run motor for 10 to 15 seconds after on the trailer.
• Dispose of unwanted bait. It is illegal to release live or dead bait or fish parts in the water.
Whenever possible:
• Dry everything when going from lake to lake, especially when recently in infested waters.
• Spray down boat and trailer with high pressure washer.
• If possible, rinse with hot water at least 120F.
• Dry for at least 5 days.
Enjoy time on the water and take a kid fishing!
