All of sudden there is a lot of hype for ALL boaters (canoes, kayaks and paddle boats are included) to get their new free Aquatic Invasive Species sticker. However you are still free to tell them to stick the sticker elsewhere at least for a few boating seasons. Keep in mind you might get a warning. See below for all the details of the new sticker...

A new law that was passed in 2011 (Minnesota Statues 86B.508) requires a watercraft owner or operator to obtain and attach an aquatic invasive species rules decal to all types of watercraft prior to launching on, entering into, or operating on any waters of the state. The FREE decals are available at DNR offices, Deputy Registrar offices where licenses are sold, and large sport shops, as well from DNR Watercraft Inspectors and conservation officers.

The top part of the sticker must be placed inside the watercraft where it can be read, and shown to a conservation officer, and the bottom part refering to the drain plug goes by the winch. In the cases of boats without drain plugs, I think you can discard that portion.

If the owner does not want to stick the decal on the boat because it is an antique wooden boat or other unique boat, they may attach the decal to an object or laminate it and attach it like a luggage tag.

Now if you're not wild about sticking a new sticker on your boat, canoe, kayak you can wait. It is not until August 1st of 2014, that you can be charged with a petty misdemeanor. I'll think I'll wait to add one to my kayak. I'll get one for my boat because sometimes I need a reminder about the drain plug!!