In Minnesota, resident anglers no longer need a license when shore-fishing at most lakes within the state’s parks. A change in state law, which went into effect in July 2009, restores the right to fish for free to residents.
Other rules and regulations apply, such as the legal limit of fish that can be caught. Details, including a map showing where to find the free fishing opportunities, can be found online.
To encourage angler participation, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) stocks 30 state parks with fishing kits that visitors can borrow for free. The fishing kits include a pole and tackle. In addition to fishing kits, Minnesota offers free loaner GPS units, binoculars, bird guides, and activities for kids.
For details concerning free fishing, loaner equipment, or other information, visit mndnr.gov or call the DNR Information Center, 651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
source: Minnesota DNR