DNR announces decision on experimental walleye regulations on the lakes of Namakan Reservoir

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) completed its review of the experimental walleye regulation on the lakes of Namakan Reservoir, which include Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point, Crane and Little Vermilion lakes.

The new regulation will require the immediate release of all walleye from 17- to 28- inches, with one walleye over 28 inches allowed in a possession limit of six walleye and sauger combined, of which no more than four may be walleye. The new regulation will be implemented on March 1, 2007, for a five-year trial period. Annual test netting and a creel survey in 2010 and 2011 will provide information to evaluate the regulation.

Namakan Reservoir walleyes have been protected with a harvest slot limit since 1998. The current 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. Although the current regulation has kept harvests at sustainable levels, the fishery has not responded as well as some had hoped, according to the DNR. The new regulation will protect the spawning stock, while allowing some additional harvest of small fish, which are typically the most abundant fish in a population.

Anglers should see additional opportunities to catch and release large sized walleye and find it easier to catch harvestable fish less than 17 inches in length. The new regulation should keep harvests near sustainable levels, which will promote healthy, self-sustaining fisheries in the long run.

Many people participated in the regulation review process by attending public meetings, making phone calls and sending comments.

"The comments were instrumental in shortening the review period to five years and establishing the walleye/sauger combination limit," said Kevin Peterson, DNR area fisheries supervisor. "The DNR wishes to thank all those who took the time to get involved in the process by attending meetings, participating in discussions and providing comments on the regulation proposals."