DNR working overtime to prepare boat landings for opener
by Lee Voss, WJON.com

BEMIDJI -- If you are heading up north for the fishing opener this weekend, you may want to call ahead to see if the ice is out on the lake you plan to visit. 

DNR Northwest Waterways Manager Tim Browning says  the cold spring has left some of the lakes with ice on them yet.  He says that has led to a delay in getting docks put out at public landings and slowed their work in repairing the ice-damaged concrete slabs on the ramps. 

Browning says they are working overtime to get the work done.  But, he says some lakes may not have docks or ramps prepared. 

Browning says you should bring waders with you in case your lake doesn't yet have docks in place.  He also says make sure you inspect the ramp before launching your boat to make sure it doesn't damage it.