Rep. Chris Swedzinski (R-Ghent) has a way for anglers to have more success fishing regardless of whether the DNR trims the walleye limit.
The DNR has proposed reducing the statewide daily and possession limit for walleye from six to four fish, effective March 1, 2027. The DNR has indicated this would combat pressure from advanced fishing technology, climate change, and invasive species.
The rule maintains the current restriction of allowing only one walleye over 20 inches in possession.
Swedzinski said whether the walleye limit is six or four, he’d like to see licensing stamps that allow people to fish with two lines for all fish instead of the current oneline- per-person regulation. He authored H.F. 624 last year to make this happen and plans to continue pursuing this change in the 2026 session. He said revenue generated by the two-line stamps would go toward walleye stocking.
Swedzinski said his bill would help Minnesota preserve its tradition as a haven for outdoors enthusiasts for future generations to enjoy.
The DNR is accepting public comments on the proposal through March 5.
