Minnesota Seeks to Reduce Walleye Bag Limit to Protect Population

Minnesota is considering a significant change to its fishing regulations by proposing to reduce the walleye bag limit for anglers from six to four fish. If adopted, this new rule would not take effect until March 2027, but it aims to ensure the sustainability of the walleye population in state waters, according to Brian Nerbonne, a regional fisheries manager with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The current bag limit has been in place since 1956, a long-standing regulation that has seen little change despite evolving environmental challenges. The introduction of invasive species and other ecological shifts have raised concerns about the future of walleye fishing in Minnesota. Nerbonne described the proposed reduction as a “prudent step” to maintain the quality of walleye fishing for generations to come.

“We’ve had a lot of changes in our lakes and rivers that probably will not favor walleye going forward,” said Nerbonne. “We wanted to be proactive about maintaining the excellent walleye fishing we have in Minnesota. Knowing that some of these challenges are coming down the pike, we didn’t want to wait to see problems in our walleye populations before we started to take action.”

In addition to lowering the bag limit, the proposal includes a clarification regarding conflicts between general inland water fishing rules and specific regulations, such as those for border waters and closures. Under the new rules, specific regulations would take precedence over general ones for all species. The existing rule permitting only one walleye over 20 inches in possession would remain unchanged.

The DNR has actively sought public input on the proposed rule changes. In a statewide survey conducted in 2023, nearly 48% of randomly selected anglers favored reducing the bag limit. Further engagement included in-person interviews with over 4,000 anglers, of whom 67% supported the proposal, and an online survey where 61% expressed their approval.

Currently, the DNR is accepting additional public comments on the proposed rule changes until 16:30 on March 5, 2024. Individuals interested in sharing their opinions can contact the DNR by telephone at 651-259-5235, via email at [email protected], or through postal mail at Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155. More details about the proposal can also be found on the DNR website at dnr.state.mn.us/fisheries/management/walleye-limit.html.

Nerbonne emphasized the importance of public involvement in this decision-making process. He acknowledged that while there has been significant support for the proposal thus far, the DNR is open to hearing diverse opinions. “We’re listening and want to hear that input, and we’ll just see what the public has to say,” he stated. “We’ll certainly weigh that as we make the final decision.”

As Minnesota prepares for potential changes to its fishing regulations, the balance between preserving natural resources and meeting the needs of anglers remains a critical focus for the DNR.