Dayton likely to sign higher fishing, hunting fees

Fishing opener
In this May 9, 2009 file photo, anglers cast their lines in the early morning during the Governor's Fishing Opener on White Bear Lake.
AP Photo/Pioneer Press, Ben Garvin

Gov. Mark Dayton is expected to sign a game and fish bill that raises new revenue for the Department of Natural Resources.

The House and Senate gave final approval to the bill over the weekend. Supporters say the higher fees for hunting, fishing and trapping are needed.

Vern Wagner, vice president of Anglers for Habitat, supports the fee hikes.

"We haven't had one in over 11 years. So the DNR cannot continue to do services in 2013 with 2001 dollars," he said.

Wagner said he hopes the additional revenue will allow the DNR to keep stocking lakes with fish and hire enough conservation officers to enforce hunting and fishing laws. He also said the new money will help officials manage the state's 1.3 million acres of wildlife areas.

The game and fish bill awaiting the governor's signature also establishes a new wolf hunting season in Minnesota.

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