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This special field episode of Explore Minnesota More takes you to the banks of the Mississippi River at Fort Snelling, where hosts Sarah Strommen and Randolph Briley join Tyler Winter of Native Fish for Tomorrow for an afternoon of fishing and conversation.

Instead of the usual studio setup, rods were in the water—and bending fast. In just 35 minutes, the crew landed seven different native species, from redhorse to freshwater drum to channel catfish. Along the way, they explore:

• The surprising diversity of Minnesota’s rivers—143 native species statewide.
• Why underappreciated fish like the freshwater drum are ecological heroes.
• How simple, shore-based fishing makes the outdoors accessible for families.
• New legislation giving long-overlooked species the respect they deserve.

Whether you’re an avid angler, conservationist, or just curious about the hidden world beneath the surface, this episode will change the way you think about Minnesota’s native fish.

Credits:
Producers: Randolph Briley & Cody Nelson
Hosts: Sarah Strommen and Lauren Bennett McGinty
Original Music by Andrew Haaheim and Alsever Lake