Fishing Expert: Rely On Electronics, Or Not?

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- It's just two days until the fishing opener.

Assuming you go to southern Minnesota to find fish this weekend, it's safe to say there will be plenty of pressure from other anglers as lakes may be quite busy.

"We're going to be dealing with a lot of crowds that will be descending on these small lakes, from Willmar to Litchfield to Atwater," guide Steve Carvey said. "You'll have to contend with many more boats.

Does that mean you put a premium on electronics to find fish for you?

Results may vary, according to Carney, who says it's still a game of the avid angler.

"The electronics are only as good as the people reading them," Carvey said. "It's a gut feeling you should rely on it. It's a style and instinct by being on the water.

Then there's another option if you don't like the traffic -- river fishing. This year, it's an attractive and potentially productive alternative.

"There's a lot of room on the St. Croix and the Mississippi where there won't be a lot of people," Carvey said. "One recommendation is down by Hudson."