Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Proposes Cutting Statewide Walleye Limit

(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wants to cut the statewide walleye limit from six fish to four. The proposed change would also clarify some confusion about regulations for people fishing in border waters.

If the DNR moves forward with this, Minnesota anglers would be able to keep only four walleyes instead of six under a proposed update to a rule that’s been in effect since 1956. The change would take effect on March 1st, 2027, if it gets approved. The current rule of keeping only one walleye over 20 inches would remain the same.

Brad Parsons, who manages the fisheries section, pointed out that a lot has changed over the past 70 years since the current limit was set, including climate conditions, invasive species, and much better fish-finding technology.

The proposed rule would also make it clearer that when the rules for inland waters differ from regulations listed elsewhere in the fishing rules, those other rules take precedence. That includes things like border waters regulations, waters that are closed to fishing, or waters with special restrictions. This clarification would apply to all fish species, not just walleye.

Parsons mentioned they’ve been discussing this change informally for quite a while, including working with anglers and interested groups to see whether it’s something people would support. Now they’re going through the official process to propose the change and get formal input. He said the proposal is based on what fisheries research and sampling data are showing them about the future of walleye in Minnesota.

The DNR wants to hear what people think about this proposal and is taking comments until 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 5th. The agency is accepting emails at fisheries.rulemaking.comments.dnr@state.mn.us, and they ask anglers to mention “walleye limit” in the message. Those who want to offer thoughts can also call the DNR at 651-259-5235 or send mail to:

Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155

For more information about the proposal, including what people have said so far and the factors the DNR considered, click here.

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