MN-FISH Hosts Anglers Summit in Itasca County and the Grand Rapids, MN Area

Minnesota is known for its world-class fishing, and this March, anglers, fishing industry professionals, and fisheries experts will have a unique opportunity to come together to discuss the future of the sport. MN-FISH is hosting the Anglers’ Summit on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids, MN. This event is open to MN-FISH members and partners and will serve as a valuable forum for discussing the most pressing issues facing Minnesota’s fisheries.

Join us on March 27, 2025 from 9AM to 5PM, for the MN-FISH Angler’s Summit—a unique opportunity to connect with fellow anglers, fisheries leaders, and industry experts to discuss the future of Minnesota fishing.

This day-long free event will bring together the Minnesota DNR and passionate anglers like you to tackle key topics such as:

Brad Parsons, head of MN DNR Fisheries, will discuss reasons for wanting to change the state walleye limit from 6 to 4 fish and opening bass to year-round fishing.
Forward Facing Sonar
How MN-FISH is working to be the voice of anglers in policy and conservation
Musky & Northern Pike Management
Stocking & its future
This summit isn’t just about learning—it’s about making a difference. Your voice matters in shaping the future of fishing in Minnesota, and this is your chance to be heard.

Date: March 27, 2025
Location: Timberlake Lodge, Grand Rapids, MN
Time: Registration at 9:00 AM | Welcome Remarks at 10:00 AM | Closing at 5:00 PM

Space is limited, so secure your spot today! Lunch will be provided.

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to make Minnesota fishing stronger than ever!

A Gathering of Anglers and Experts

The Anglers’ Summit will bring together a wide range of voices in the fishing community, including Minnesota DNR fisheries leadership, anglers, resort owners, bait shop owners, fishing guides, and other key stakeholders. The goal of the event is to create an open discussion about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Minnesota’s fisheries.

MN-FISH Executive Director Mark Holsten emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “We want to bring together DNR fisheries leadership, state anglers, resort owners, bait shop owners, guides, and other stakeholders from the greater Itasca County area to dig into the issues affecting our fisheries so we can make Minnesota fishing even better.”

One of the most anticipated parts of the summit is a presentation from the Minnesota DNR, led by DNR Fisheries Chief Brad Parsons and other local fisheries leaders. This session will focus on proposed changes to fishing regulations, including the statewide four-walleye limit and a year-round bass season. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session, providing valuable feedback to the DNR.

Key Topics to Be Discussed

The summit will cover a variety of topics that impact Minnesota’s fishing community, including:

Statewide 4 walleye limit vs 6 with Fisheries Chief Brad Parsons
Year-Round Bass Fishing – Should Minnesota allow bass fishing year-round? What are the benefits and potential concerns?
Forward-Facing Sonar – How is new technology affecting fishing success and fish populations?
Northern Pike Management – Are current regulations effective, and what can be done to improve pike fishing in Minnesota?
Musky Management – Understanding the balance between muskies and other fish populations.
Fish Stocking and Its Future – How does stocking impact fish populations, and what role does it play in Minnesota’s fisheries?
DNR Budget Issues – What funding challenges does the DNR face, and how does it affect fish management?
And much more!

This event is designed to give anglers a voice, providing an opportunity to share ideas, concerns, and solutions directly with those who help manage the state’s fisheries.

A Free Event with Lunch Provided

One of the best aspects of the MN-FISH Anglers’ Summit is that attendance is free, and lunch will be provided to all registered attendees. However, space is limited, and seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure a spot, participants must register in advance at MN-FISH Anglers’ Summit Signup.

For those traveling to Grand Rapids for the event, Timberlake Lodge is offering discounted rates for attendees. Additionally, many MN-FISH board members and key figures in Minnesota’s fishing industry will be gathering the night before for an informal meet-and-greet. This is a great opportunity for attendees to network, share fishing stories, and connect with industry professionals in a relaxed setting.

Why This Event Matters

Fishing is a way of life in Minnesota, and the Anglers’ Summit is a chance for those who love the sport to have a direct impact on its future. Whether you’re a casual weekend angler, a fishing guide, or a resort owner, this event offers a unique platform to discuss fishing regulations, conservation efforts, and emerging challenges in the industry.

MN-FISH has worked hard to develop this summit as a bridge between the Minnesota DNR and anglers. By participating in this open dialogue, attendees will help shape policies and management strategies that will keep Minnesota’s fisheries strong for generations to come.

If you’re passionate about fishing in Minnesota and want to be part of the conversation, don’t miss this opportunity. Mark your calendar for March 27, 2025, and join MN-FISH at Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids for an important and engaging discussion on the future of fishing in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

For more information or to register for the event, visit MN-FISH Anglers’ Summit Signup.