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It'll be catch-and-release only for anglers who get out for the fishing opener on Lake Mille Lacs Saturday. 


The lake's walleye population has been struggling, and that's led to increasingly tight restrictions. 

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The DNR says catch-and-release is necessary this year to allow the population to rebuild. The agency originally went even further, with a ban on live bait,  but later 


For more on how bait plays into the equation, MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Deer River-based fishing guide Jeff Sundin.

Lake Mille Lacs' walleye population has been struggling, and that's led to increasingly tight restrictions.

It'll be catch-and-release only for anglers who get out for the fishing opener on Lake Mille Lacs Saturday. The lake's walleye population has been struggling, and that's lead to increasingly tight restrictions on the catch.

How live bait affects walleye catch-and-release

Two fisherman floated on Lake Mille Lacs.

How live bait affects walleye catch-and-release

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