Department of Natural Resources Releases 2025 Open Water Fishing Regulations for Mille Lacs Lake

(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says anglers on Mille Lacs Lake will have the opportunity to harvest up to two walleye per day during the upcoming open water season.

A press release from the DNR says after years of restrictive regulations, the Mille Lacs Lake walleye fishery appears to be healthy, according to both state and Tribal fisheries biologists. More than a decade ago, the DNR and Ojibwe treaty Tribes significantly reduced harvest limits due to concerns over ecological changes and declining survival rates among young walleye.

That strategy has proven successful.

Harvested walleye must be at least 17” inches long, with only one over 20” allowed.

“The walleye population in Mille Lacs is currently in a good place,” said Brad Parsons, Minnesota DNR fisheries section manager. “Ojibwe Tribes and the Minnesota DNR limited harvest, which allowed for an increased number of adult spawning walleye, and a strong 2024 year class that bodes well for the future health of the fishery.”

The walleye opener is May 10th, 2025.

For other fish, from May 10th through the 23rd, all large and smallmouth bass must be released. Starting May 24th, all bass greater than 17” inches must be immediately released and there is a possession limit of three in combination. Starting May 10th, through March 21st. 2026, all northern pike larger than 30” inches must be immediately released with a limit of three.

For more Mille Lacs specific regulations, click here.

The 2025 statewide handbook can be found by clicking here. Physical copies can be picked up wherever licenses are sold.

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