The Minnesota season is open for walleye, northern pike and trout in lakes Saturday, May 11. Out of the 1.4 million licensed anglers in Minnesota, about half a million anglers take part in the tradition of the fishing opener.

Make sure to buy your fishing license, available at any DNR license agent, online using a mobile or desktop device, or by phone at 888-665-4236. Mobile buyers receive a text or email that serves as proof of a valid fish or game license to state conservation officers.

There are about 3,000 public water access sites statewide. “Boaters will find good launch conditions...