The NW winds have started this morning, and colder weather is coming for the next 36 hours. We will receive gusts up to 30 mph, so we will see how the lake ice reacts. On Thursday, we will decide whether to re-open for ATV/portable traffic for the coming weekend. It will be in the report.

After last fall, population estimates showed a 10% decline in the Walleye Population and a significant increase in the harvest this winter. (Despite the lack of angler hours due to late and poor ice conditions).  The DNR is proposing a slot limit of one between 21″-23″ inches starting on the Walleye Opener.  C/R for the Walleye only through June. A complete closure in the first two weeks of July. Then, re-open after that point. Their reasoning for the change is that the “bite”, angler catch per hour has increased. Because of the lack of baitfish they would typically target. Also in their creel surveys, they noticed the Walleye were not as fat as they had been the last two years. That indicates more competition for the food source, creating a better bite.

I’ve noticed the size change in the Walleye from the beginning of the ice season to now, and yes, they are not as “fat” as they were at the start. But is it cause for alarm?  I’m not sure.  I will be the first to admit I am not a fisheries biologist. But I’ve seen this before and Mille Lacs Lake has had many ups and downs over the years. The MNDNR fisheries management policies have reversed since the 80s and ’90s; the main cause of the reversal, in my opinion, is Treaty Management. The Mille Lacs Fishery isn’t able to take its course because of it.

I’ll share more of my views tomorrow. I’m going to provide a little bit of history.

Keep a Tight LIne!

Eddy