Take a kid ice fishing for free this weekend

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Minnesotans who want to introduce a child to ice fishing may want to take advantage of Take-A-Kid Ice Fishing Weekend Feb. 18-20.

During those days resident anglers age 16 and older do not need a fishing license if they are accompanied by a child younger than age 16. This weekend is also an opportunity for kids to introduce an adult to ice fishing.

"Many kids now know how to make a jiggle stick and how to use it by attending our clinics or learning from classroom curriculum," said Roland Sigurdson, MinnAqua specialist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. "For kids eager to fish, Feb. 18-20 could also be called take an adult ice fishing weekend."

Sigurdson encouraged anglers venturing out on the ice to be extra cautious given varying ice conditions throughout the state. The best way to determine ice conditions is to check with local bait shops or the county sheriff's office. DNR ice safety information is available at www.mndnr.gov/icesafety.

Several Minnesota state parks are offering Take-A-Kid Ice Fishing opportunities during this special weekend. The clinics offer an indoor presentation on ice fishing safety, gear and techniques. Participants should dress for the weather because ice fishing will be among activities at most clinics. Kids will make their own jiggle sticks to take home.

Participants must register for events by contacting the appropriate state park or MinnAqua staff at www.dnr.state.mn.us/takeakidicefishing/index.html.

Tips for a successful ice fishing trip are available online at www.mndnr.gov/minnaqua.

An educational podcast about ice fishing featuring Mike Kurre, DNR mentoring coordinator, and Mike "Smitty" Smith of "Ice Team" is at files.dnr.state.mn.us/news/podcasts/KidsAndIceFishing.mp3.

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