With the Minnesota fishing opener just a few days away, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced several Cook County fishing closures that will be in effect to protect concentrations of spawning walleye, which may be vulnerable to overharvest.

According to the DNR, the following closures took effect April 1:

  • Sea Gull River from Sea Gull Lake through Gull Lake to Saganaga Lake, approximately 1/3 mile north of the narrows; closed through May 26.
  • Saganaga Falls on the Minnesota‑Ontario border where the Granite River enters Saganaga Lake; closed through May 31.
  • Maligne River (also known as Northern Light Rapids) on the Ontario side of Saganaga Lake; closed through May 31 by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.
  • Unnamed channel between Little Gunflint and Little North Lakes on the Minnesota‑Ontario border; closed through May 31.
  • Cross River (inlet to Gunflint Lake) from the Gunflint Trail to Gunflint Lake; closed through
    May 26.

Closures on Minnesota-Ontario waters are made in cooperation with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and affect both sides of the border.

Please note that these closures apply to fishing only and travel is still permitted through these areas.

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