New Regulations On The Horizon For Wisc. Walleye Anglers

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The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is looking to make life simpler for walleye anglers in Northern Wisconsin.

Currently, ceded lakes, about 200 of them in the northern third of the state, have varying walleye limits for hook and line anglers.

These limits can change from year to year because they are dependent on the amount of traditional fishing declared to the DNR by Native American groups in the area.

The new proposal would set a three walleye limit on ceded lakes.

A minimum length of 15 inches would also be instituted for keeper fish with a moratorium on fish between 20 and 24 inches.

Officials say these regulations will protect the fisheries by helping to maintain healthy walleye populations and still allowing anglers to enjoy walleye fishing.

Changes will also affect tourism in the area.

Under the current regulations, anglers might favor a resort or lake because it has a higher bag limit than another.

The new regulation would provide a level playing field for the resorts with regards to fishing opportunity.

The Wisconsin DNR is currently holding a series of public meetings to hear concerns and support for the regulation change.

One such hearing was held in Hayward Thursday night.

Local anglers spoke favorably about the new regulations and no negative feelings were made public.

A final hearing will be held at the Minocqua  Public Library on Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Anyone who is unable to attend the public meetings can submit written comments to the Wisconsin DNR.

The DNR will be accepting feedback on the proposed changes until June 30.