Fishing season heading for earlier opener
The Minnesota House has approved moving up the start of this year's fishing season by one week, to May 5, in part because of the early spring.
Legislators approved the proposal -- an amendment to a broader game and fish bill -- on a divided voice vote Tuesday. Under the measure, fishing could begin on May 5 rather than the scheduled opener on May 12.
Rep. David Dill, DFL-Crane Lake, said the change is appropriate this year because of unusually warm weather throughout the state.
"We've had the earliest ice out that anyone can remember in any recent history," said Dill. "The fish have done most of their work that they're supposed to do to make more fish. And they have moved out as if it is summer."
DFL Senate Minority Leader Tom Bakk said he plans to offer a similar amendment in the Senate. The Department of Natural Resources has not opposed the move.
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