Due to anticipated late ice-out on several lakes and rivers along the Minnesota-Ontario border, some waters will be closed to fishing at the start of this year’s season to protect spawning walleye from potential over-harvest, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced.
The closures, which are done in cooperation with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, affect both sides of the border. All areas closed to fishing will be posted. Walleye are vulnerable to over-harvest during years with relatively late ice-out and delayed spawning.
The following areas were closed to fishing on Friday, April 1:
— The Sea Gull River from Sea Gull Lake through Gull Lake to Saganaga Lake approximately 1/3 mile north of the narrows will be closed through May 27;
— Saganaga Falls on the Minnesota Ontario border where the Granite River enters Saganaga Lake will be closed through May 31;
— The Maligne River (also known as Northern Light Rapids) on the Ontario side of Saganaga Lake will be closed through May 31;
— The channel between Little Gunflint and Little North Lakes on the Minnesota Ontario border will be closed through May 31;
— The Cross River (an inlet to Gunflint Lake) from the Gunflint Trail to Gunflint Lake will be closed through May 27.
The following areas will be closed to fishing from Saturday, May 14, through Friday, May 27:
— The Tait River from White Pine Lake to the Forest Road 340 crossing, including a portion of White Pine Lake.
— Junco Creek from the first log dam above County Road 57 downstream to Devil Track Lake, and including a portion of Devil Track Lake near the river mouth.
Only fishing is affected by these closures, travel is still permitted through the areas.