DNR seeks comments on experimental walleye regulations on Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point, Crane and Little Vermilion lakes

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be hosting public meetings this fall to gather input on the future of walleye regulations on the lakes of Namakan Reservoir, which includes Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point, Crane, and Little Vermilion lakes. The first of these meetings will be an open house at the DNR Central Office, 500 Lafayette Rd, St. Paul, MN on September 29 from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. The second meeting will be held in Orr, Minnesota at the City Hall on October 26, 2006 at 7:00 pm. The forums are intended to provide background information, answer questions, and take public input on the future of walleye regulations on these waters.

Namakan Reservoir walleyes have been protected with a “harvest slot” limit since 1998. The experimental regulation requires the immediate release of all walleye less than 13 inches and from 17 to 23 inches. One walleye over 23 inches is allowed in a possession limit of six. The current walleye regulation, which expires on March 1, 2007 may be modified, extended or dropped.

Comments on the walleye regulation review will be accepted at the DNR Area Fisheries Office in International Falls, 392 Highway 11 East; (218) 286-5220; kevin.peterson@dnr.state.mn.us .

All comments must be received by November 6, 2006.

For more information, contact Kevin Peterson (218) 286-5220 or email: kevin.peterson@dnr.state.mn.us .