Conservation Officer Report District-5

CO Darrin Kittelson (International Falls #1) reports people have started open-water fishing on the Rainy River, with one access open (Nelson Park, Birchdale) for launching. People are reminded to have their current fishing license, current boat registration, and boat safety equipment onboard. Enforcement action was taken for boat registration issues. Several animal-related complaints were also looked into throughout the week.

CO Curtis Simonson (International Falls #2) reports having a busy week working the Rainy River. Many anglers headed out in the boat this past week for the first time this year. Enforcement action taken this past week was for failing to display current registration, not having the proper number of PFDs onboard, and being in possession of walleyes/sauger during a closed season.

CO John Slatinski IV (Ray) monitored what appears to be the final days of recreational snowmobile activity. Anglers are still reporting good ice conditions, but overall success has been less than stellar. Ongoing investigations were worked on, seasonal equipment tasks were tended to, and administrative tasks were completed. Reminder to check your ATV registration as the seasonal changes bring them out of storage.

CO Troy Fondie (Orr) reports monitoring area forest roads relating to spring restrictions. Angling and ATV activities were checked. Public access sites were monitored. Equipment work was completed, as were administrative tasks.

CO Aaron Larson (Tower) primarily spent his time at an in-depth training of waterfowl identification and biology. He also took calls relating to dead deer.

CO Marc Johnson (Hibbing) attended a waterfowl training course near Rochester. Time was also spent working fishing and ATV enforcement. Anglers trying for panfish still report a slow bite. As always, exercise extreme caution while on the ice and keep preparedness in mind as the ice continues to deteriorate on local lakes.

CO Shane Zavodnik (Virginia) spent time helping teach the Waterfowl Academy for the previous two graduating conservation officer classes. He also followed up on a dog-chasing-deer complaint and fish houses still on the ice. Zavodnik continues put away winter equipment and get ready for the open-water season.

CO Duke Broughten (Aurora) spent the week monitoring fishing and ATV activity. Anglers reported limited success. Lake ice is beginning to deteriorate. ATV operators are reminded to check the status of the trail before operating. Broughten also fielded calls regarding fish houses left on the ice and litter.

Cook vacant.