(KNSI) – Already tight regulations on Lake Mille Lacs regarding walleye fishing are about to constrict even further. The Department of Natural Resources measures are meant to protect fingerlings and ensure that the population is sustainable. Harvest rates in recent years were significantly below average.
Through the end of May, anglers are allowed to take home one walleye if it is at least 21 inches in length. In June that will give way to a catch-and-release program, regardless of size.
The DNR is forbidding fishing for the species at all in the first half of July. To reduce the threat of accidental hooking, live bait that could potentially entice a walleye to bite will also be outlawed on Lake Mille Lacs from July 1-15. Anglers trying to reel in northern pike or muskey can use suckers that are at least eight inches in length. The other option is to fish with artificial lures.
Catch and release begins again on July 16th until the fall harvest season in September.
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