Minnesota Changes Mille Lacs Lake Regs to Benefit Walleye Population
Regulations that will limit the harvest of walleye and potentially increase the harvest of northern pike and smallmouth bass will be implemented on Mille Lacs Lake this spring as part of a multi-year effort to rebuild the lake’s legendary walleye population. When the walleye season opens May 11, anglers will be able to keep walleye only between 18- and 20-inches or longer than 28 inches. All others must be immediately released. The possession limit is two, with only one longer than 28 inches. Last year, anglers could not keep walleye 17- to 28-inches in length. They could keep up to four walleye shorter than 17 inches, with one longer than 28 inches allowed. “We want Mille Lacs to continue to be a world-class walleye fishing destination,” said Dirk Peterson, Department of Natural Resources fisheries chief. “Currently, the size and structure of the walleye population isn’t where we want it. We are committed to remedying the situation as quickly as possible through r...