Dayton to demand Mille Lacs open for walleye ice fishing
Updated: 3:36 p.m. | Posted: 2 p.m.
Governor Mark Dayton says he's going to insist that the Department of Natural Resources allow ice fishing on Lake Mille Lacs this winter.
Dayton's comments come as the DNR is under heavy pressure from resort and other business owners to allow walleye fishing on Lake Mille Lacs this winter. The department closed the summer walleye fishing season early last month after the state exceeded its quota on the lake.
Dayton said he understands the need for a winter season and is urging the DNR to get it done.
"It's crucial that we get a good winter fishing season for Mille Lacs and I will insist that there be one," Dayton said.
Dayton's comments undercut DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr's statement that the department won't be able to determine ice fishing rules until scientists do a fall count of the fish in the lake. It also precedes the state's annual negotiations with Native American tribes on the amount of fish that can be removed from the lake.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.