District 5 - Eveleth area

CO Darrin Kittelson (International Falls #1) reports the sturgeon keep season on the Rainy River is fully under way with lots of people attempting to catch a monster pre-historic fish. Along with fishing enforcement, boat and water safety enforcement was the main focus of the work activities. Enforcement action was taken for boat registration issues, safety equipment violations, fishing license issues, failure to attach sturgeon tag, and transport unmeasurable sturgeon.

CO Curtis Simonson (International Falls #2) reports spending time this past week working the Rainy River for the opener of the Sturgeon keep season. Anglers reported some success throughout the week. Safety equipment and boat registration violations remain to be encountered. Enforcement action was taken on ATV?s operating on closed snowmobile trails.

CO Troy Fondie (Orr) reports handling numerous incidental otter catches over the week, nuisance wildlife was dealt with, forest roads and water access sites continue to be monitored.

CO Sean Cannon (Cook) spent much of the week at Camp Ripley for training, other than that time was spent monitoring spring trapping and checking anglers. The spring Crappie bite continues to be hit and miss, with things slowing down, most likely due to the colder weather.

CO Aaron Larson (Tower) worked primarily angling and off highway vehicle enforcement. Larson spent time checking for anglers around his station. Larson encountered illegal spearing activity and take fish in a closed area, he also dealt with illegal youthful operation of an OHM. Assistance was also given to the Breitung Township Fire department at a fire in Soudan.

CO Marc Johnson (Hibbing) primarily worked ATV and trapping enforcement. In addition, time was spent maintaining station equipment and responding to a variety of calls, including a report of several stolen traps and a wetlands violation.

CO Shane Zavodnik (Virginia) spent time patrolling areas where he fielded multiple complaints of reckless ATV operation. Additional time was spent investigating a wetland violation and where an individual was burning tires on their property. CO Zavodnik wants to remind the public to brush up on the rules and regulations while on the water and when operating ATVs.

CO Duke Broughten (Aurora) spent the week monitoring fishing, boating, trapping, ATV activity. Rain limited recreational activity but helped with fire danger. Fishermen reported little success. Spring beaver trapping appears to be going well. Bears are making their appearance. Time to keep all garbage contained and take down the bird feeders. Seeing a bear is common and their presence alone doesn?t mean they intend to cause harm. CO Broughten gave a presentation to local law enforcement regarding off highway vehicle laws. CO Broughten also assisted with youth firearm safety.

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