Image:  MN DNR

From the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - January 14, 2025

District 6 - Two Harbors area

Last updated: 2025-01-13

CO Sean Williams (Ely #1) reports snow late in the weekend improved the snowmobile trails and again made them and the lakes passable. Angling activity stayed steady, and reports were generally good. Violations included failure to display snowmobile registration, operating a snowmobile on a roadway, and angling after revocation.

CO Brent Ihnen (Ely #2) patrolled his station this week checking primarily fishing activity. Ihnen also checked ATV and snowmobile operators.

CO Anthony Bermel (Babbitt) reports checking anglers, monitoring snowmobile trails, assisting the county and local police department with a couple calls, and putting on a recreational vehicle training for local law enforcement. Investigations from deer season continue. He also worked some Bear Committee items. A few minor violations were documented with warnings. Fresh snow has arrived, which should aid in snowmobile and cross-country ski trail conditions and allow for more favorable conditions for accessing remote trout lakes.

CO Thomas Wahlstrom (Grand Marais) continued to check anglers in the BWCAW. Anglers remain happy with easy travel into the BWCAW and the opportunity to bag some nice lake trout. He completed equipment-related matters on his snowmobile. Enforcement action was taken for license violations.

CO Hudson Ledeen (Hovland) spent time checking anglers inside the BWCAW as well as folks fishing for pike and walleyes outside of the wilderness area. Ledeen continued work on a statewide investigation involving trapping violations. Equipment maintenance was performed.

CO Trent Anderson (Tofte) focused on ice fishing enforcement for the week. He continues to work on investigations from the recent trapping season. Vehicle maintenance was conducted. Anglers are reminded to review the angling regulations prior to heading out for the regular trout opener.

CO Megan Franzen (Silver Bay) spent time monitoring local angling activity and responding to wildlife-related calls. Snowmobile activity was slow throughout the week, as the warm weather has had a negative impact on trail conditions. The week ended with a much-needed heavy snowfall, which will drastically improve the local trail network.