Taking kids fishing is a lot of fun and a terrific bonding experience and this weekend the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is making it very easy to do just that.

The DNR has announced that it's Take A Kid Ice Fishing Weekend in Minnesota from Saturday, January 19 through Monday, January 21.

That means that throughout the entire weekend, which is extended into Monday in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Minnesota residents age 16 or older can fish or dark-house spear without an angling or spearing license if they take a child younger than 16 fishing or spearing.

Please be sure to check ice thickness before going on to the ice and the DNR suggests you have the following clothing:

  1. Stocking Cap: May be the most important piece of winter clothing. Wear a knitted or fleece hat or cap that covers ears. In addition, a hood helps block the wind.
    Scarf or Neck Gaiter: A scarf, muffler, or neck gaiter can be pulled over the face if it gets windy.
  2. Mittens: Mittens trap more heat than gloves. Mittens should be thick and warm. Thin gloves worn under mittens are good when mittens need to be taken off for tying knots or taking fish off of hooks. Connecting mittens to jacket cuffs may be a good idea for some.
  3. Warming Layers: Layers of clothing trap body heat between them. Most long underwear (layer next to the skin) made of polypropylene (or silk) wicks moisture away from the skin. The next layers are for insulation. Ideal insulation layer materials retain some insulating qualities, even when wet (such as a wool sweater or fleece jacket). If it's really cold, wear more than one insulating layer. The top layer blocks the wind and may also be waterproof.
  4. Socks: Wear thick wool socks. Some people like to wear two pairs of socks. Be sure to avoid cotton socks.
  5. Boots: Boots should be insulated and rubber-soled. Make sure boots aren't too tight -- toes should have room to wiggle.

Follow the link below for all kinds of helpful information, including a guide to learn how to ice fish together, how to make your own ice fishing jiggle stick and more.

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