Fishing in Minnesota

Module Overview

With more than 12,000 lakes and 15,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers, Minnesota is home to over 150 different species of fish. The state has a rich cultural and economic relationship with our cold-blooded friends, along with the aquatic ecosystems that fish rely on to survive. This history has led to a diverse suite of programs that are geared towards getting people out on the water and fishing. Despite these efforts, it can still be difficult for folks, particularly new Minnesotans, to engage with the fishing history of the state. Knowledge on types of fish to catch, where to catch them, how to cook them, and how to harvest fish sustainably (and legally), are often absent from English language learning classrooms. Therefore, this module not only explores the history of fishing in Minnesota and basic fish ecology, but also provides information on how and where to fish safely in the state.

Lessons in this module will discuss basic fish anatomy and the differences between humans and fish; public health and fishing; and how the DNR creates rules and regulations that monitor fish populations. Through this module, students will learn about specific fish species found in the state, and receive hands-on training in casting and obtaining a fishing license. The module will culminate in a fishing trip to a local park.

Resources

Culminating experience information

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is part of a corridor of land and water stretching nearly 70 miles along the Minnesota River, from Bloomington to Henderson, Minnesota. Comprising more than 14,000 acres, the refuge spans both rural and urban communities, and offers a variety of free outdoor recreational experiences for individuals and families. For this field trip, staff from Minnesota Valley would meet with classes at a local fishing pier and provide all necessary fishing equipment for learners, as well as casting and knot-tying lessons. Minnesota Valley can also arrange transportation to and from the site if necessary. 

Baztec Incorporated

Baztec is the first and only program in the Twin Cities with a Spanish-speaking staff committed to providing fishing opportunities to underserved communities. Founded in 2017, the organization leads fishing workshops at lakes across the Twin Cities and in the surrounding suburbs. For this field trip, staff from Baztec would meet with classes at a local fishing pier and provide all equipment for learners, as well as casting and knot-tying lessons.