DNR Reminds Anglers To Help Slow the Spread of AIS

(KNSI) – Anglers are headed out to the lakes and rivers for the Minnesota fishing opener. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds boaters to help keep our lakes and rivers healthy by slowing the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species.

DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen says there are a few simple steps people can take to prevent the spread of AIS.

“One of the things that we like to remind folks at the start of the season is there’s something that each and every one of us as anglers can do. And that’s when we take our boat out of the water to make sure we clean it we drain it we dry it and we dispose of unused bait.”

Some of the AIS species of concern to officails are zebra mussels, spiny water fleas, starry stonewort and others. She says preventing the spread of AIS will help keep fishing alive in Minnesota for generations.

“It’s really the start to the open water summer season and I think for so many Minnesotans, it’s the start of time with friends and family on the water catching fish, maybe eating them, but certainly sharing memories. So, that’s really what it’s all about.”

Strommen says Minnesotans are spoiled because there are so many chances to get out and catch fish.

“In Minnesota, we are so fortunate because we have so many different types of fish. High quality fisheries and so many different ways to catch them whether you’re on a boat, you’re on shore or you’re on the dock. I think many of us have memories catching fish off the dock.”

Strommen was a guest of KNSI Bob Highes during his morning broadcast from the Governor’s Fishing Opener in Cass Lake. For more information on fishing in the state, click here.

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