Minnesota DNR Changes Approach To Managing Minnesota Muskie

The Minnesota DNR updated its long-range muskie plan, and there are a few changes that might make some happy, while others might not be so wild about some of the ideas. Overall, the plan's purpose is to catch larger muskies for more memorable catches.

Making Muskie Lakes Better Is Step One

The Minnesota DNR heard from anglers that they wanted more improvement in the current muskie fisheries rather than expand the program, so that will mean more focus on lakes like Mille Lacs, Vermillion, and Minnetonka. The goal is more consistent trophy fishing and less pressure on smaller lakes.

How Do You Improve Existing Fisheries? Stock Older Fish

One of the ideas from the long-range plan is to stock yearlings rather than fingerlings. The thought is that the bigger and more mature fish will fare better against larger predators, and last longer, meaning bigger fish in the future.

Metro Muskies Aren't Going Anywhere

According to the long-range plan, the Minnesota DNR plans to continue managing hybrid tiger muskies in selected metro lakes because they’re popular with anglers and help provide urban fishing opportunities.

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Overall, the strategy is rather simple from the Minnesota DNR as it pertains to muskie. Quality versus quantity when it comes to stocking lakes, that takes away the 'hope' strategy that fingerling stocking does. The Minnesota DNR wants to protect those fisheries that have established populations for bigger catch opportunities, and finally improve those lakes that have muskie to create habitats for more to grow.

You can see the full long-range plan from the Minnesota DNR here. 

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