Some Cook County lakes still holding ice ahead of fishing opener

Ice will likely be a common theme during the 2019 Fishing Opener for some anglers in Cook County.

As of May 8, an assortment of popular lakes in the region remained partially or completely covered in ice. However, some lakes, including Seagull and Sag, are open. Others, such as Gunflint and Clearwater, are still holding ice in some locations.

Ahead of the 2019 Fishing Opener, local DNR Conservation Officer Darin Fagerman stopped by WTIP to talk with Joe Friedrichs about what to expect on opening weekend.
 
In more local fishing news, anglers are responsible to be aware of fishing closures in the following areas:
 
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 24.

· 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 24

The following areas will be closed to fishing from May 11 through May 24:

· Tait River from White Pine Lake to the Forest Road 340 crossing, including a portion of White Pine Lake.

·Junco Creek from the first log dam above County Road 57 downstream to Devil Track Lake, and including a portion of Devil Track Lake near the river mouth.