This Friday night marks the beginning of the 2010 Walleye fishing opener in the state of Minnesota.  As all of you clean up your boats and dig out your rod and reels, here are a couple of things to keep in mind.

 * Minnesota Fishing Regulations New for 2010

• Muskie statewide inland size limit moved to 48 inches, except for certain metro area lakes 
• Lighted lures must NOT contain mercury
• Netted carp and buffalo can NOT be released back into the water
• Residents over 90 years old don’t need a license
• Residents under 16 years old may net cisco and whitefish without a license
• Shelters must be licensed

 * If you have been a resident of Minnesota for at least 60 days you are able to purchase your fishing license online from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.  It is very simple and easy to do.

 * Anglers need to keep in mind that even on a warm day inside the comfort of the boat, water temperatures can hover in the low 50s.  It has been proven that boating accidents are five times more likely to be fatal if the water is colder than 60 degrees.

* Keep your kids safe.  If you have not been out in a couple of years, be aware of a legal measure that went into effect in 2005.  This law requires life jackets to be worn by children less than 10 years of age when aboard watercraft in Minnesota that is under way (not tied up at a dock or permanent mooring).

* It also goes without saying… please do not drink and operate a boat.

 Enjoy the fishing and set that hook!