The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking for input on a proposed walleye fishing regulation change for sections of the Otter and Cloquet rivers in St. Louis County. These rivers flow into Island Lake Reservoir and the proposed changes would make the walleye regulation the same for the reservoir and the adjacent river segments.
The proposed regulation change for the Otter River from the mouth to the Boulder Lake dam, and the Cloquet River from the mouth to the rapids a half mile upstream, would require anglers to release all walleye 15 to 20 inches in length — the same regulation as applies to Island Lake Reservoir.
Spawning walleye from the reservoir concentrate in the river segments in the spring. Consistent regulations between these connected waters will advance fish management objectives by protecting spawning walleye, while also streamlining rules for anglers.
Comments on the proposed regulations change will be accepted through Dec. 2, 2022.
For those who want to provide input in-person, an open house will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, at the Rice Lake City Hall, 4107 W. Beyer Rd., Rice Lake Township. Written comments can be mailed to DNR Duluth Area Fisheries Office, 5351 North Shore Dr., Duluth, MN 55804 or emailed to [email protected]. Comments may also be provided by calling the Duluth Fisheries office at 218-302-3264.
If adopted, the proposed regulations would take effect for the 2023 fishing season.