DNR extends comment period for Pokegama muskie stocking proposal

The Grand Rapids Area Fisheries Office of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has extended the public comment period until September 30 for proposed muskie stocking in Pokegama Lake. A public informational open-house meeting was held last week.

Approximately 35 members of the public attended and participated in the open house. Several participants asked for an extension on time for the public to make comments.

“The comments we receive from the public are very important to us,” said Chris Kavanaugh, area DNR fisheries supervisor. “We want to make sure they have adequate time to comment.” The final decision on stocking muskies in Pokegama will not be made for several months, pending a review of the statewide program, so it is reasonable to allow this extension.

The proposal is to stock muskies into Pokegama Lake to provide additional angling opportunities. Muskies are native to the Mississippi River and are occasionally caught by anglers in Pokegama. The lake has adequate prey to support another predator species and the goal is to develop a self-sustaining population capable of producing trophy-sized fish while not impacting the other game fish species.

The proposal is to stock muskie fingerlings every other year for nine years (five stockings) beginning when the fish are available. The lake would not be formally designated as a muskie lake so it would remain open to spearing as allowed under state law. The lake would continue to be stocked with walleye fingerlings annually and lake trout when available. The lake would remain open to sport netting for whitefish such as tulibees.

Comments on this stocking proposal may be directed to Chris Kavanaugh, DNR Area Fisheries, 1201 E Highway 2, Grand Rapids, MN 55744; or e-mail

Written comments will be accepted until September 30, 2006.

For more information, contact: Chris Kavanaugh, DNR Area Fisheries Supervisor, 218-327-4430