VHS-related bait restrictions

The DNR must match existing rules to changes made by the 2021 Legislature. These rule changes do the following:

• Define Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) susceptible species as:
  • Aquatic species that are hosts for VHS based on the Fish Health Blue Book, which is produced by the American Fisheries Society, or the book’s successor; and
  • Those species that can survive in the Great Lakes region.
• Allow establishment of VHS-free zones in the state to be used for certification of water bodies.

The DNR is using the good cause exemption rulemaking procedure under Minnesota Statutes, section 14.388, subdivision 1 (3), to make this rule change.

• People who harvest bait for personal use as dead or frozen bait requiring disease-free certification and labeling.
• People who obtain bait preservation permits.

You have until 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, to submit comments to the Office of Administrative Hearings via its e-comments website at minnesotaoah.granicusideas.com/discussions.

Written comments mailed to the following address must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8:

• Proposed rules
• Notice of rules proposed for adoption without a public hearing

If you want a free copy of the proposed rules, call or email the DNR contact person listed below.