From the MN DNR Website @ Proposed Walleye & Sauger Regulation Changes
Four public input meetings have been scheduled in September by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to solicit comments on proposals that would restrict walleye and sauger harvests on Lake of the Woods and Rainy River.
The meetings relate to increased angling pressure in recent years that has led to harvest rates that exceed sustainable levels. The proposed regulation changes would reduce harvest and protect the high-quality fishery on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River. If enacted, the proposed regulation changes could be implemented by Dec. 1, 2004.
“The upcoming meetings are an outgrowth of multiple discussions with resort owners and others in recent months who are concerned about the long-term quality of angling in the Lake of the Woods area,” said Henry Drewes, DNR regional fisheries manager.
“The meetings are an opportunity for us to share information and listen to citizen concerns so we can identify a biologically and socially sound regulation package.” An increase in winter fishing is driving the higher harvest levels. About 1.9 million hours of angling pressure was recorded on Lake of the Woods and Rainy River last winter, the highest ever. Ice fishing pressure rose to record levels the previous seasons as well.
The input meetings will use an open house format, meaning there will be brief presentations by DNR staff, followed by informal question and answer opportunities. The proposed regulations changes include:
Lake of the Woods walleye opener – Nov. 30
– walleye/sauger aggregate limit would be six (not more than four could be walleye)
– walleye and sauger between 19½ -28 inches would have to be released immediately
– only one walleye over 28 inches total length could be possessed
Lake of the Woods – Dec. 1 – April 14
– walleye/sauger aggregate limit would be eight (not more than four could be walleye)
– walleye and sauger between 19½ -28 inches would have to be released immediately
– only one walleye over 28 inches total length could be possessed
Four Mile Bay of Lake of the Woods – March 1 – April 14
– walleye/sauger aggregate limit would be two (no fish over 19½ inches)
Rainy River – Walleye opener – February
– walleye/sauger aggregate limit would be six (not more than four could be walleye)
– walleye and sauger between 19½ -28 inches would have to be released immediately
– only one walleye over 28 inches total length could be possessed
Rainy River – March 1 – April 14
– walleye/sauger aggregate limit would be two (no fish over 19½ inches)
Dates and times of the meetings are:
– Twin Cities: Sept. 28, DNR Headquarters, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, 8 a.m.-4:30 pm.
– Baudette: Sept. 28. Lake of the Woods School, choir room (room E-139), 7-9 p.m.
– Roseau: Sept. 29. Roseau High School, study room, 7-9 p.m.
– International Falls: Sept. 30. Rainy River Community College, (Room SC-115), 7-9 p.m.
Those unable to attend the meetings may submit written comments by Oct. 15 to the DNR Fisheries Area Office, 204 Main Street East, Baudette, MN 56623, by e-mail to [email protected], or by phone to(218) 634-2522.