Program purpose
Provide fishing pier and shore fishing areas that enables and encourages anglers of all ages and abilities to go fishing and participate in organized fishing clinics and events. Connect people to the outdoors and encourage stewardship with safe and convenient access to public waters.
How it works
Local Units of Government (LUG) enter into Joint Power Agreements with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for the installation/development, operation, and maintenance of a fishing pier or shore fishing area. In a typical agreement the DNR will provide and install the fishing pier and the LGU will provide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) features and maintain the fishing pier for 25 years.
Funding priorities
- Replacement or rehabilitation of an existing, successful fishing pier or shore fishing site. Piers over 20 years old are eligible.
- New fishing pier projects with a willing partner who is able to contribute $10,000 or more to the cost of the pier.
- New shore fishing projects with a willing partner who is able to contribute 25% or more to the cost of the shore fishing area.
Project site requirements
- Public land on a waterbody that has limited wind, waves or currents.
- Land portion can meet ADA requirements with a reasonable investment. ADA includes a designated accessible parking stall that connects to a hardened trail/path to the pier/shore fishing site. The trail/path has no more than a 5% slope with a 2% cross slope.
- There is a fishable depth range of 5’ to 10’ at the end of a fishing pier or casting distance from a shore fishing area.
- Must be a great location for catching fish.
How to apply
Fill out an application. Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis and will be used to request future program funding.
Contact information
Fishing Pier Program Coordinator
or 651-259-5616
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Division of Parks and Trails
500 Lafayette Road, Box 39
Saint Paul, MN 55155