(KNSI) – Anglers on one of northern Minnesota’s most popular lakes will be able to keep more and bigger walleyes this year.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources set the limits to four walleye per day, up one fish from last year with one walleye longer than 20 inches. The 2021 open water regulation was a three-walleye limit, with one over 17 inches allowed. The new regulations were announced on Tuesday.
The DNR says although angler activity was once again high last winter, only 134,000 pounds of walleye were taken. Authorities say early winter fishing was excellent, but heavy snow reduced anglers’ mobility on the lake.
Officails say netting is used to evaluate the walleye population and set the season catch totals. The DNR says the new possession limit is intended to keep the yearly catch between 240,000 to 336,000 pounds. The Red Lake Nation and the Minnesota DNR manage walleye harvest under a joint plan. The 2022-2023 winter harvest regulations will be set after the summer fishing season.
The Upper Red Lake Citizen Advisory Committee reviews walleye harvest totals and regulation options and provides recommendations for the state waters of Upper Red Lake.
Upper Red Lake also has a limit of three northern pikes, with all between 30 and 40 inches immediately released. Anglers can keep on fish longer than 40 inches.
___
Copyright 2022 Leighton Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be broadcast, published, redistributed, or rewritten, in any way without consent.
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!