Buy legendary fishing adventures, products and more April 18-20!
MN-FISH’s online auction of fishing adventures – billed “The World’s Greatest”—will give bidders the chance to share a fishing boat with some of the nation’s leading anglers.
The 3-day online auction opens at 7 am on Tuesday, April 18 and ends at 8 pm on Thursday, April 20th. Auction items may be reviewed and bidders may register at MN-FISH.COM by clicking on the blue “Go To Auction” prompt on the home page.
More than 30 top anglers have donated trips, as have top resorts, in addition to other special offerings.
MN-FISH president Ron Schara said the first-ever auction is a fund-raising effort by MN-FISH to continue its mission to improve state fish hatcheries, public boat accesses, shoreline fishing sites and other fishing-related goals.
“Top outdoors industry notables have really stepped up to the plate,” said Schara. “Thus far, more than 30 fishing celebrities and guides have donated personal fishing trips for winning auction bidders. From Al Lindner to Babe Winkelman, Steve Pennaz, Ted Takasaki and Dave Genz—and countless others, far too many to name. This is a chance for everyone to spend time with the very best on-the-water.”
The World’s Greatest Fishing Auction, which includes a one-in-a-lifetime trip with anglers like Al Lindner and Babe Winkelman, starts 7:00 am CST on April 18 and runs until 8:00 pm April 20. Go to MN-FISH.com to view offered items, register and bid.
Minnesota Supreme Court Decision Protects Public Access to State Waters
In a decision celebrated by MN-FISH, the Minnesota Supreme Court recently reversed a lower court decision in a case that potentially eliminated public access to many state waters.
In the Moratzka case, the plaintiff successfully argued in district court that the Minnesota Title Act (MTA) extinguished the public’s interest in an undeveloped road dedicated by plat more than 100 years ago.
That decision was upheld by the court of appeals before going to the Minnesota Supreme Court.
MN-FISH was asked to participate in the case and offer assistance through an amicus brief, in which MN-FISH argued to protect public access to state waters. The court agreed that the public’s interest outweighs that of private interest when it comes to access to public waters.
“This decision protects public access to public water in hundreds if not thousands of cases,’ said Jay Pederson, MN-FISH board member and Bemidji-based lawyer. “In many cases, public access to state water could have been cut off permanently.”
The Supreme Court’s decision in this case was a big win for state anglers and boaters.
MN-FISH Reception Attended By Gov. Walz
On March 28th, with key legislation pending, MN-FISH hosted a legislative reception in support for bills funding the hatchery and public access improvements across the state. The meeting was attended by Gov. Walz, DNR Commissioner Strommen, several legislators and as well as other leaders in the conservation community. MN-FISH Coalition President Dave Osborne (right) addresses the crowd before introducing the governor (left) who spoke of his support of the proposed funding. MN-FISH members are asked to contact their representatives in support as well.
