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open water


bojangles

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looking for a lake and or a river within 1 hour of the cities, that is open, would perfer a lake but rivers open alot faster.to start the breakin of my new t-8,before we head to the rainy.red wing is to far and crowded. any info would be greatley appericiated.

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Bo,

You will not find a lake open within an hour of the cities. I would hit the river. The access is open and in great shape in Lilydale. You might just catch a few fish in the process grin.gif

Shoot me an e-mail if you need more info.

------------------
Paul
[email protected]
Marcum
Otter Outdoors

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where is lilydale what river is that minnesota,mississippi or st croix not familar with the river system around the cities. also is there alot of current.is it very crowded on the weekends. thanks for the info paul

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Bo,

Lilydale ramp is located about 1/2 mile downstream from where I-35E passes over the Miss. You can launch there and head up river about a mile, there you come to a y. To the left is the Minnesota, to the right is the Miss. and if you follow that up a few more miles you will come to the Ford dam. Right now there isn't a whole lot of traffic grin.gif. Pool 2 is open for CPR all year round.

------------------
Paul
[email protected]
Marcum
Otter Outdoors

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paul sorry but one last question whats the best route saint louis park area. got a little quick on the trigger before and posted a message twice.

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Bo,

Depending on where you are find something to get you to 35E be it highway 36 or following 94 into St. Paul. Get on 35E going south and follow that over the river bridge and exit Hiway 13. Left at the top of the ramp and go over the hiway. Take the first right after the bridge and follow that down and around past the Lilydale Yacht club. Continue along the river for 3/4 of a mile. Boat access is on your left. Ample parking and no fee smile.gif

Further questions feel free to call my cell tomorrow and when you are headed down there. 651-247-6053

------------------
Paul
[email protected]
Marcum
Otter Outdoors

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I almost guarentee that lower Penn lake in Bloomington will be open with this up coming warm stretch. The Aerator and Geese tend to keep the North end by the Jetti Open and that is also the best place to fish.

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Pool 2 is your best bet. Good luck. Has anyone seen how the Hidden Falls access is? I haven't been there since last summer.

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Stopped by the Hidden Falls access on 3/7 to burn time waiting for a hockey game. Only 1 boat in the lot but the ramp was clean and ready for action. Walked down to the river's edge on the ramp and could see no obstuctions. Haven't launched there personally in a couple of years but all appeared ok.

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