Gas Station with Live Bait Near Me: Finding Your Local Spot for Minnows Ahead of the Walleye Opener

As the Walleye Opener approaches on May 13, Minnesota anglers are gearing up for a fishing season like no other. However, bait shops across the state are facing an unexpected challenge – a severe minnow shortage due to the prolonged winter weather. But don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we'll help you find the nearest gas station with live bait near your location.

Minnow Shortage: The Impact of Winter on Minnow Supplies

According to Marshall Koep of Urbank Live Bait Co., the tough winter Minnesota experienced has taken a significant toll on minnow supplies. 'The oxygen levels got so low that these minnows that are in there have... They just died underneath the ice then they get covered,' he explained. This means that many bait shops, including Urbank Live Bait Company, one of the largest minnow providers in the state, are struggling to find enough live minnows for customers.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has reported a 25% decline in minnow harvests between 2020 and 2022, making it even more challenging for bait shops to meet demand. As we head into the fishing season, it's essential to know where you can get your hands on some live minnows.

Finding Your Local Gas Station with Live Bait

So, how do you find a gas station with live bait near you? Here are a few tips:

1. Check online directories: Websites like Yelp or Google Maps can help you locate nearby gas stations that sell live bait.

2. Ask locals: Join local fishing groups on social media platforms like Facebook and ask members for recommendations on the best places to find live minnows in your area.

3. Visit local tackle shops: Even if a particular shop doesn't have live minnows, they may be able to direct you to nearby locations that do.

Some popular gas stations with live bait near me include:

Tips for Finding Live Minnows

If you're having trouble finding live minnows at a local gas station, try the following:

1. Call ahead: Before heading out to a gas station, give them a call to check if they have live minnows in stock.

2. Be flexible: Consider visiting multiple locations or trying different types of bait until you find what you're looking for.

3. Plan ahead: If possible, plan your fishing trip during times when the demand for live minnows is lower, such as early mornings or late evenings.

The upcoming Walleye Opener in Minnesota promises to be an exciting event, but it's essential to prepare by finding a reliable source of live minnows. By following these tips and recommendations, you'll be well on your way to catching the fish of a lifetime. Remember to always check with local bait shops and gas stations before heading out to ensure they have the live minnows you need. Happy fishing!

Gas station with live bait near me