The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is proposing rule changes to several waters of the state where taking fish is restricted or otherwise differentiated from other fishing regulations.
- What will this rulemaking do?
The proposed expedited rule modifies three areas in "Fishing Regulations for Inland Waters."
- Clarifies that certain water bodies may be subject to boundary waters regulations that differ from the general inland fishing regulations.
- Reduces the inland waters daily and possession limit for walleye and sauger from six combined to four combined, with only one walleye over 20 inches in length allowed in possession.
- Clarifies that regulations for Lake Superior and Tributaries, Waters closed to Taking Fish, Waters with Restrictions on Taking Fish, Designated Waters, or Boundary Waters Fishing Regulations take precedent over Fishing Regulations for Inland Waters.
- Who might be affected by these rule changes?
- Individuals who fish for walleye and sauger in inland waters of Minnesota.
- Businesses that provide services and products to walleye and sauger anglers.
- Fishing and conservation groups concerned about daily and possession limits.
- Individuals or groups with whom walleye and sauger may have cultural significance.
- Where do I send my comments?
You have until 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, to submit your comments. Email comments must be submitted to [email protected]. Please mention “Walleye Limit” in the subject line or body of your correspondence. Comments provided in writing by mail or by telephone may be submitted to the DNR contact person listed below.
You may request a hearing on these rules. If at least 50 persons submit a valid request for a hearing and a sufficient number do not withdraw their requests (reducing the number below 50), then a public hearing will be held before an administrative law judge. The Notice of Intent to Adopt Expedited Rules tells you how to submit a request for hearing to the DNR contact person.
- Where can I get more information?
View additional background information for this rulemaking.
If you want a free copy of the proposed rules, call or email the DNR contact person listed below.
- DNR contact person
John Dunn
Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Section of Fisheries
500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155
651-259-5235
[email protected]