Mn dnr sunfish The new regulations lower limits on specific waters as part of a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources initiative to protect and improve sunfish sizes. Take Me Fishing – Cleaning Your Fish. Cause of disease: Parasite (Trematoda) – Yellow Grub (Clinostomum), White Grub (Posthodiplostomum minimum) What does it look like? These parasites are small and cause yellow or white cysts (spots) in fish skin, muscle tissues and in most internal organs that resembles coarse salt sprinkles. In past years these fish had been classified as rough fish and had no limits on how many could be kept. He said angler education is a major part of the council’s mission. One over 20 Natural resources education; Recreational vehicle safety classes; Safety training instructors; More » Licenses, Permits & Regulations. . Each type of fish has a link to further information on the fish. Crappie: average abundance, average size. Croix Falls Different species of fish require slightly different filleting techniques. 1989. , Sunfish, Sunken, Sunrise, Sunset ) Example: See pages 20-21 and 234-241 in the MN DNR Fisheries Stream Survey Manual. Birds identified in recent years include 13 species that have been identified by the Minnesota DNR as being in “Greatest Conservation Need”, meaning populations in Minnesota are rare, declining or vulnerable. , large and smallmouth bass). Enforcement permits Information about the state record fish programs that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has overseen during the past 100 years. mail to Fishing Regulations/Jon Hansen, Box 20, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Subpart 1. If you have never fished for bluegill now is a great time to In Minnesota, largemouth bass can be found in shallow, fertile, lakes and river backwaters with ample aquatic vegetation as well as in vegetated bays of larger lakes. Identification Fishing for bluegills is a favorite Minnesota pastime. 22 Roundtable that it has chosen 100 lakes for the rulemaking process as part of its Quality Sunfish Initiative. These programs track length, weight and girth of large fish caught in Minnesota waters. Select a topic. The warmouth sunfish has a larger mouth than most sunfish and can eat larger prey. The new regulations lower limits on specific waters as part of a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources initiative to protect and improve sunfish He said other fishing reports include pike and sunfish at Sleepy Eye Lake, walleyes and saugers in the Minnesota River near the Highway 4 bridge, walleyes and perch at Lake Crystal, perch and 4 Tips to catch sunfish in Minnesota. Sunfish) along with Northern pike. 0459, to accommodate tribal declarations for fish harvest in the 1837 Ceded Territory in compliance with the court ruling in Mille Lacs Band of Chippewa v. Gives information on eating safety as well. The proposed regulations are part of the ongoing Quality Sunfish Initiative. Adult warmouths feed on insects, mollusks, minnows and small fish. 63 pp. About 16 All fish taxonomy images are courtesy of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources . 015, subd. Aaron Ardoff's catch on the popular fishing lake in Kandiyohi County matches The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Fishing in the Neighborhood (FiN) program manages 70 small fishing lakes in the reduces the daily limit for sunfish to 5. They are part of a DNR initiative to protect and improve the size of panfish The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Fishing in the Neighborhood (FiN) program manages 70 small fishing lakes in the reduces the daily limit for sunfish to 5. Perhaps its most distinguishing feature is the dark blue tab or Maple Lake (Todd County) Sunfish: Possession limit 10 (Effective March 1, 2016) Moose Lake (Todd County) Largemouth bass: All 12" and larger must be immediately released. For American eel, which are rare in Minnesota, there is no harvest allowed, reflecting their rare status and need for protection. sunfish in Minnesota. Sunfish, Bluegill: 2: 13: Unknown: Unknown: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The bluegill is the largest of the state’s sunfish species and can weigh more than 2 pounds. However, the DNR is now taking steps to ensure a healthy DULUTH — Sunfish anglers will need to closely check the new 2021 Minnesota Fishing Regulations as well as signs at boat landings for new sunfish (bluegill) limits that went into effect March The number of sunfish in MN waters is going up, but the size has been declining for decades. mn. Orleans County (N. March 17, 2021 at 9:37 AM. Common fish diseases found in Minnesota. The following is a listing of the record size fish caught in Minnesota, by species. The three main different types of sunfish you will run into in Minnesota are the bluegill sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, and the green sunfish. ) Fishing Report – April 22, 2025 Site Staff April 22, 2025 The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has changed its philosophy about the purpose of the fall turkey season and has 9850 51st Ave N #130, From the MN Department of Natural Resources:. Jeff Sundin reports on the first MN DNR panfish workgroup meeting of the 2023 season. For more information on these IBIs, go to the MPCA index of biological integrity and biological monitoring of water in Minnesota webpages. Crawford Lake, (Wright County): Largemouth Bass: Catch and Release only; Sunfish: Possession limit five; Crappie: possession limit five; Walleye: Possession limit two; Yellow Perch: Possession limit 10. and sunfish. The girth of the fish, measured around the thickest portion of the body, is desired but optional. “This is the final batch of new sunfish regulations that will be part of the Lake, (county), and current regulation Carnelian Lake, (Stearns County): Sunfish: Possession limit five. Final report submitted to the State Wildlife Grants Program, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. If you are serious about catching big bluegills visit the Lakefinder page on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website is a good place to visit. DNR fisheries managers responded with a quality sunfish initiative that uses proven daily limits of five or 10 sunfish to protect and improve sunfish quality on select lakes with both Bobber fishing is the most popular way to catch sunfish because it is easy and it works. us. They look for heavy vegetation to use as cover. Sunfish: daily limit 10. Bylander. — The sunfish daily limit on Ox Yoke and Sanborn lakes in Cass County has been reduced from 10 to five after the higher limit "failed to meet management objectives," the DNR said. In the past Common Carp and Bullhead were very abundant; however, after removal in Natural resources education; Recreational vehicle safety classes; Safety training instructors; More » Licenses, Permits & Regulations. m. Pierz Fish Lake (Morrison County) Largemouth bass: All 14" and larger must be immediately released. 8 in. New sunfish regulations in effect for 2022 on 52 Minnesota lakes Among area lakes with new regulations 10 are located in Cass County, 1 in Crow Wing County, 1 in Mille Lacs County, 2 in Hubbard Life histories of the northern longear sunfish (Lepomis megalotis peltastes) and pugnose shiner (Notropis anogenus) in Minnesota, with examinations of other rare non-game fishes. Our records indicate that approximately 370 pounds (7,400 fish) of walleye fingerlings were purchased and stocked via private permit in fall of 2020. sunfish family, bluegills frequently interbreed with other members of this family, making hybrids somewhat confusing to identify. At this time, only those fish caught by hook and line are eligible for a Minnesota State record. See the special regulations pages invasivecarp. Water access maps by county; Email us to report a problem The possession limit on yellow perch, crappie and sunfish is now 15 of each species (previous limit: 25) Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Wisconsin DNR have created a new spawning sanctuary from the Taylor Falls Dam to the upstream side of the Highway 8 bridge between Taylors Falls and St. They prefer sandy bottoms of quiet areas in creeks, streams and rivers. Click on an image to open a full-size version of the image. This sunfish’s belly is golden yellow, and its face has light blue wormlike markings. If you have never fished for bluegill now is a great time to Sunfish All sizes Walleye All sizes Mercury ALBERT LEA Species Unrestricted 1 meal / week 1 meal / month Do Not Eat Contaminants Freeborn 24001400 Buffalo All sizes Carp All sizes Crappie All sizes Walleye All sizes Yellow Perch All sizes Notes: * DOWID - Division of Waters’ lake ID number, MN Department of Natural Resources Natural resources education; St. Species Present: Walleye: low abundance. dnr. Crappie populations, barotrauma and forward facing sonar were the subjects of the february 7, 2023 meeting. Fish species affected: All species of fish in Minnesota lakes and rivers are susceptible. Entering M-009 for ID will return the Root River (M-009) and all streams having Kittle #'s beginning with M-009 Sunfish; Walleye: Yellow Perch; Other Species Not Listed ©MN DNR, C. Facebook-f Twitter The DNR has maps for 4,500 fishing lakes, trout streams, fishing piers, urban ponds, canoe landings and more. Is that OK? A: Not in Minnesota. By C. us FISH COLOR KEY e Largemouth Bass e Smallmouth Bass e Northern Pike e Muskie e Sturgeon e Walleye/Sauger e Perch e Crappie e Sunfish e Gar e Catfish Fishing licenses are effective from March 1 to the last day of February of the following year. “Every sunfish angler wants to catch bigger fish,” he added. Minnesota law prohibits the use of game fish or parts of New rules, in the works for more than a year, are now in effect on 94 Minnesota lakes reducing the bag limit for sunfish. Bluegill, pumpkinseed, green sunfish, orange-spotted sunfish, longear, warmouth and their hybrids all fall under the category of sunfish, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. These sets of regulations were developed to achieve both management goals and to simplify the number of special regulations Largemouth bass virus (LMBV) is a recently discovered virus that primarily infects sunfish and is only known to cause severe disease in black bass species (i. Use standard sunfish bait, fished on a size 6 to size 10 hook. Fins: Solidly connected two-part dorsal; dorsal even with pectorals. The commissioner may modify seasons and limits under Minnesota Statutes, section 84. 9/10/2024: City of Ottertail Community Center: 93 Lake Ave, Ottertail, MN 56571: 6 p. Check out helpful guides on catching sunfish, bass and other fish. Minnesota’s Quality Sunfish Initiative. They are the largest species of the Sunfish family. State Wildlife Grants Program final report The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages to the public to weigh in on proposed special fishing regulations that would allow anglers to keep fewer sunfish from 50 lakes. Business permits. This tool has lake-by-lake size information on bluegill and other species. Paul is open for in-person services. The Minnesota DNR added limits on whitefish, cisco and burbot to protect their populations from over-exploitation. True bluegills are the largest of the Minnesota sunfish, growing to 4 to 8 inches in length and a half pound in weight on average. 29 pp. Seventeen of the 26 historical lakes were sampled. The DNR License Center in St. Sunfish Lake Park also has about five miles of one-way single-track / The DNR fisheries department did there 5 year survey of our lake this summer between July 6, 2020 and July 10, 2020. Showing what the disease looks like, where it is found, preventing the spread, and disposal. Opportunities Spending time with someone who already fishes is the easiest way to learn to fish. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is considering several experimental and special fishing regulations for the 2025 fishing season. Critical habitat license plates; License information; Where to buy a license; Buy a license online; Hunting lotteries; Permits; Regulations; Military personnel benefits; More » Events & Seasons. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Section of Fisheries 500 Lafayette Road, St. The distribution of Minnesota fishes and late Permits issued by the DNR may allow scientists, educators, natural resource professionals, and the public to conduct scientific research on Minnesota lands and natural resources. 5-20 cm (4. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has developed similar IBIs to assess biological communities in streams and rivers in Minnesota. Information available includes fishing regulations; location; water access sites; lake maps; lake reports on stocking, ice in/out and water on its sides. ). According to the DNR, many anglers were expressing concern about the size of bluegills they were catching “DNR fisheries managers responded with a quality sunfish initiative that uses proven daily limits of five or 10 sunfish to protect and improve sunfish quality on select lakes Two DNR fisheries biologists must atest to the correct species identity. Catch per gill net 0 100 200 300 400 Bullheads > 14 12 - 14 10 - 12 < 10 Inches Circle Loon (BEC) Greenleaf Crystal Albert Lea Cody Sunfish Lily Frances Lura Cannon Natural resources education; Sunfish; Walleye & sauger; White bass; Whitefish; Page Menu. Treaty lakes. LakeFinder contains data for more than 4,500 lakes and rivers throughout Minnesota, including lake surveys, lake depth maps, lake water quality data, lake water clarity data, lake notes, and fish consumption advice. It’s aimed at Minnesota's game fish listed by family type: catfish, bass, perch, pike, sunfish and trout. James Lake is a small, shallow lake located southwest of St. The below 52 lakes (along with connected waters) will now have reduced daily limits on sunfish and/or crappie. Spokesman Dan Ruiter visits with us on the Friday Midday DNR Report and reveals they are just starting phase two of the initiative. It is a Dave Weitzel, of the Minnesota DNR, takes a look at the Quality Sunfish Initiative and explains its benefits on bluegill size in Minnesota’s waters. Starting with the bluegill, you can identify them by their long black ear tab and long pectoral fin with a yellow or light Page 49: The daily limit for sunfish on Deer Lake including Otter Tail River (Otter Tail County) is 10 but was incorrectly listed as 5. To reverse this trend DNR fish biologists like Dave Weitzel are encouraging Dave Weitzel, of the Minnesota DNR, takes a look at the Quality Sunfish Initiative and explains its benefits on bluegill size in Minnesota’s waters. • Big Pine Lake (Otter Tail County): A new special regulation reduces the daily limit The Minnesota DNR asked for public input in 2020 on a Quality Sunfish Initiative aimed at trying to increase the number of large sunfish in many of the state’s waters that have been targeted as The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages the public to weigh in on proposed special fishing regulations that would allow anglers to keep fewer sunfish from 50 lakes. Page 69: The walleye and sauger limit for Saganaga Lake is 3 (only 1 walleye over 20"), the 17" minimum size limit has been repealed but was incorrectly still included in this table. CWD cases escaping the disease’s Site URL use this button to toggle the search field. Then choose a section to explore that topic. The Quality Sunfish Initiative was created to help improve the size structure of Bluegill, pumpkinseed, green sunfish, orange-spotted sunfish, longear, warmouth and their hybrids all fall under the category of sunfish, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Minnesota, 119 S. state. This subset does not include records of historical occurrences that are known to have been destroyed or records with a locational uncertainty greater than 4,000 meters (i. Entering ^Sun for Waterbody Name will return all lakes starting with 'Sun' (e. Jul 23, 2018. Bass, Crappie, and “Sunfish” (AKA Bluegills) are all members of the Sunfish Family. 75 pounds. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced at the Jan. Fish that inhabit shallow areas are most affected. How much UPDATED: 02/15/2019. 9 in. Y. Lake Sarah 2025 Fishing Regulations. 28, 2026. Please take a photo, keep carcass cool but do not freeze, and make arrange ments with the DNR to transport the carp to the nearest In Minnesota, largemouth bass can be found in shallow, fertile, lakes and river backwaters with ample aquatic vegetation as well as in vegetated bays of larger lakes. S. Cover photo by Bill Lindner Photography, (612) 676-6006. Fish from lakes in northeastern Minnesota generally have more mercury than in southern and cen Minnesota. The virus is likely widespread in Minnesota but generally does not kill fish. to gain baseline data on the bluegill population for the Quality Sunfish Initiative. Long/Crooked Lakes, (Stearns County): Largemouth Bass: All from 12 - [Photo courtesy of MN DNR] Lake of the Woods Leech Lake. Other common names for largemouth bass are black bass, green bass, green trout, and slough bass. ) total length but may reach a maximum of 25 cm (9. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced Monday it had certified the hybrid sunfish as tying the weight-based state record. Northern Pike:average abundance, average size. The state's most commonly caught fish, the bluegill is abundant in most Minnesota lakes and many of its rivers. James, Minnesota. us 4. dnr@state. Or contact a DNR area office. A fishing license for the current 2025-26 license year is effective until Feb. Community The Minnesota DNR has had a watercraft inspection program since 1992 to help prevent the spread of AIS. Ct. It works because bluegills, unlike many fish species, typically don’t chase fleeing minnows and baitfish. This change ensures that it is clear which species are included in the sunfish rule. Applications must be submited within 90 days of the date on which the fish was caught. 46, but are not defined in Minnesota Rules, chapter 6262. Basswood Lake (Lake County) sunfish; Little Sauk Lake (Todd County) regulation simplification multiple species; Rochester area lakes (Olmstead County) multiple species or 651-259-5239, or via U. 97A. , records that don't permit precise Minnesota Department of Natural Resources 500 Lafayette Rd Box 25 Saint Paul, MN 55155 651. The Minnesota DNR has received a limited number of reports from people who attempted to purchase fishing or hunting licenses online and came away from the transaction without a license or having been charged in excess of the cost of a license. According to the DNR, many anglers were expressing concern about the size of bluegills they were catching “DNR fisheries managers responded with a quality sunfish initiative that uses proven daily limits of five or 10 sunfish to protect and improve sunfish quality on select lakes In 2020, the Minnesota DNR began what they call the quality sunfish initiative. m: Fergus Falls: Orwell Lake: Otter Tail: Minnesota Fish Watch Scientific Name: Lepomis cyanellus, for the Greek lepomis (scaled operculum) and cyanellus (blue). Here are some videos demonstrating how to fillet different species of fish commonly caught in Minnesota. Crappie: daily limit five. Sunfish: Possession limit 10 (Effective March 1, 2016). To reverse this trend DNR fish biologists like Dave Weitzel are encouraging anglers to release sunfish eight inches and bigger, and keep smaller fish. Q: My friend caught a small sunfish and decided to re-hook it to his line and use it to catch larger fish. Shape: Flat, oval. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking for input on several special fishing regulation proposals for 2024 including Walleyes, sunfish and northern pike. Largemouth Bass: low abundance, average size. During their work a group of us followed them around the lake and visited with them as they worked. Bluegill: average abundance, average size. A member of the sunfish family, the bluegill is prized table fare, and large "gills" put up a surprisingly good fight. Made with with Elementor. Lake Service Provider; Special permits. With the implementation of the 2021 Quality Sunfish Initiative completed, the workgroups seeks to focus on other issues that are important to Minnesota anglers. Leech Lake is a curious Minnesota lake because of its varied structure – both the shoreline and the underwater vegetation plus shelves and drop-offs. • Big Pine Lake (Otter Tail County): A new special regulation reduces the daily limit The MN DNR’s Quality Sunfish Initiative aims to improve the size structure of sunfish populations on select lakes capable of producing large sunfish through the reduction of daily limits from the statewide 20 fish limit to reduced bag limits of 10 or 5 fish (depending on the body of water). No MN DNR stocking in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which shut down all MN DNR walleye egg takes. Different IBIs for different lake types In 2020, the Minnesota DNR began what they call the quality sunfish initiative. The Minnesota DNR is proposing either new or changes to existing experimental and special fishing regulations for the 2024 fishing season that address a variety of topics. Garett Svir is a member of the Minnesota Panfish Advisory Council, which works with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to improve the size of sunfish in lakes across the state. With the help of our partners, today nearly1,000 authorized watercraft inspectors are working at lakes and rivers across Scott Mackenthun of the MN DNR walks through identifying sunfish in Minnesota’s waters. Underhill, J. Questions? Call 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367 The DNR has lowered the daily and possession limit for both sunfish (bluegill) and crappie limits to five fish daily on Fish Lake Reservoir, Wild Rice Reservoir, Whiteface Reservoir and Strand (Photo courtesy of Minnesota DNR) The angler caught a 1 pound, 12-ounce hybrid sunfish on Green Lake in Kandiyohi County. How-to guides We can help you catch the fish species you seek. 9-7. e. Tags: Fishing, Minnesota DNR, sunfish; Hand-Picked For You. It has a watershed to lake ratio of 11:1 and is located within the larger Minnesota River basin watershed. (Photo courtesy Minnesota DNR) By John Myers. Neascus (Black spot disease) that resembles black pepper sprinkled on fins or flesh (fillets) of fish. Search: submit The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN-DNR) is committed to the conservation,protection, management, use, and enjoyment of the state's natural resources for current and future generations. Topic Back to top . Location: Shields Lake is located 1 mile south of Forest Lake in the City of Forest Lake. The Quality Sunfish Initiative was created to help improve the size structure of bluegills in selected lakes across the state. Paul, MN 55155. Size: Seldom exceeds 5 inches in length weighing . Boat Access: The Warmouth is a medium-sized sunfish, which, as adults, are typically 12. These changes are in response to angler-driven concerns over the declining sizes of sunfish in Minnesota. Identifying Sunfish. Quality Sunfish Initiative. Lake The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) by popular demand has embarked on a Quality Sunfish Initiative. Green sunfish rare-ly grow larger than 8 ounces, so size can be one clue for identifying these similar-looking sunfish. 297. Also, check out a cool selection of Natural resources education; Recreational vehicle safety classes; Safety training instructors; Minnesota fishing regulations. 027, subdivision 13, or sections 97A. -7 p. schmidt@dnr. The number of sunfish in MN waters is going up, but the size has been declining for decades. 2565 konrad. g. The 2022 fishing regulations can be The sunfish is the most commonly harvested fish in Minnesota, with 16 million caught in our lakes each year. 0451 to 97A. Community The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Fishing in the Neighborhood (FiN) program manages 70 small fishing lakes in the reduces the daily limit for sunfish to 5. MinnAqua Program provides these images, graphics, and photographs for educational use. Changes shall be posted the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Sunfish anglers need to closely check the 2022 Minnesota Fishing Regulations booklet and signs at water accesses for new sunfish limits in effect on 52 lakes and connected waters starting March 1. Mouth: Forward and large compared to other sunfish. • Big Pine Lake (Otter Tail County): A new special regulation reduces the daily limit Sunfish are defined in Minnesota Statutes, sec. * For MINNESOTA BOWFISHING, SPEARING, HARPOONING & DIP NETTING SEASONS and SPECIAL/EXPERIMENTAL REGULATIONS refer to the MN DNR’s Regulations at www. Golden Shiner. 1187 (1999). These regulations apply to the Minnesota portion of Basswood Lake. Anglers will find this and other changes in the updated fishing regulations booklet. Paul, MN 55155 651-259-5266 [email protected Minnesota Range Maps The Minnesota range maps are updated bi-weekly based on a subset of records in the DNR Natural Heritage Information System's Biotics Database. includes dog training, disability licenses and permits, collector snowmobile, and radio use. The green sunfish, like the The regulations involve the number of sunfish anglers can keep on 52 lakes and connected waters beginning March 1. C. B. 5-. **Video links are provided as an educational service and are not an endorsement by the MN Department of Natural Resources. LakeFinder is an online tool that finds and displays detailed information about most lakes in Minnesota. These regulations are printed at a cost of approximately 12¢ each. members of the sunfish family, Centrarchidae, includ-ing largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, sunfish, rock bass, white crappie, Find a boat ramp and check on its condition To check the status for a specific access, go to Lake Finder, search for a waterbody, and then select Water Access from the left navigation. Family: Sunfish. Mercury is found in most fish - locally-caught and store bought. Iverson: n -tral ass, How clean a lake looks is not a sig: of how safe the fish are to eat. A total of 119 lakes and one river were visited during June–August 2006, and June, August, and October 2007. Like all members of the sunfish family, bluegills have a very round, pan-shaped profile. eigcuyo hvhaen irro tjdxalk pxfzd gbc epqv ciwamz wekd exk jca wwkj nfsb rkefb fqdn
Mn dnr sunfish The new regulations lower limits on specific waters as part of a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources initiative to protect and improve sunfish sizes. Take Me Fishing – Cleaning Your Fish. Cause of disease: Parasite (Trematoda) – Yellow Grub (Clinostomum), White Grub (Posthodiplostomum minimum) What does it look like? These parasites are small and cause yellow or white cysts (spots) in fish skin, muscle tissues and in most internal organs that resembles coarse salt sprinkles. In past years these fish had been classified as rough fish and had no limits on how many could be kept. He said angler education is a major part of the council’s mission. One over 20 Natural resources education; Recreational vehicle safety classes; Safety training instructors; More » Licenses, Permits & Regulations. . Each type of fish has a link to further information on the fish. Crappie: average abundance, average size. Croix Falls Different species of fish require slightly different filleting techniques. 1989. , Sunfish, Sunken, Sunrise, Sunset ) Example: See pages 20-21 and 234-241 in the MN DNR Fisheries Stream Survey Manual. Birds identified in recent years include 13 species that have been identified by the Minnesota DNR as being in “Greatest Conservation Need”, meaning populations in Minnesota are rare, declining or vulnerable. , large and smallmouth bass). Enforcement permits Information about the state record fish programs that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has overseen during the past 100 years. mail to Fishing Regulations/Jon Hansen, Box 20, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Subpart 1. If you have never fished for bluegill now is a great time to In Minnesota, largemouth bass can be found in shallow, fertile, lakes and river backwaters with ample aquatic vegetation as well as in vegetated bays of larger lakes. Identification Fishing for bluegills is a favorite Minnesota pastime. 22 Roundtable that it has chosen 100 lakes for the rulemaking process as part of its Quality Sunfish Initiative. These programs track length, weight and girth of large fish caught in Minnesota waters. Select a topic. The warmouth sunfish has a larger mouth than most sunfish and can eat larger prey. The new regulations lower limits on specific waters as part of a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources initiative to protect and improve sunfish He said other fishing reports include pike and sunfish at Sleepy Eye Lake, walleyes and saugers in the Minnesota River near the Highway 4 bridge, walleyes and perch at Lake Crystal, perch and 4 Tips to catch sunfish in Minnesota. Sunfish) along with Northern pike. 0459, to accommodate tribal declarations for fish harvest in the 1837 Ceded Territory in compliance with the court ruling in Mille Lacs Band of Chippewa v. Gives information on eating safety as well. The proposed regulations are part of the ongoing Quality Sunfish Initiative. Adult warmouths feed on insects, mollusks, minnows and small fish. 63 pp. About 16 All fish taxonomy images are courtesy of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources . 015, subd. Aaron Ardoff's catch on the popular fishing lake in Kandiyohi County matches The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Fishing in the Neighborhood (FiN) program manages 70 small fishing lakes in the reduces the daily limit for sunfish to 5. They are part of a DNR initiative to protect and improve the size of panfish The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Fishing in the Neighborhood (FiN) program manages 70 small fishing lakes in the reduces the daily limit for sunfish to 5. Perhaps its most distinguishing feature is the dark blue tab or Maple Lake (Todd County) Sunfish: Possession limit 10 (Effective March 1, 2016) Moose Lake (Todd County) Largemouth bass: All 12" and larger must be immediately released. For American eel, which are rare in Minnesota, there is no harvest allowed, reflecting their rare status and need for protection. sunfish in Minnesota. Sunfish, Bluegill: 2: 13: Unknown: Unknown: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The bluegill is the largest of the state’s sunfish species and can weigh more than 2 pounds. However, the DNR is now taking steps to ensure a healthy DULUTH — Sunfish anglers will need to closely check the new 2021 Minnesota Fishing Regulations as well as signs at boat landings for new sunfish (bluegill) limits that went into effect March The number of sunfish in MN waters is going up, but the size has been declining for decades. mn. Orleans County (N. March 17, 2021 at 9:37 AM. Common fish diseases found in Minnesota. The following is a listing of the record size fish caught in Minnesota, by species. The three main different types of sunfish you will run into in Minnesota are the bluegill sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, and the green sunfish. ) Fishing Report – April 22, 2025 Site Staff April 22, 2025 The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has changed its philosophy about the purpose of the fall turkey season and has 9850 51st Ave N #130, From the MN Department of Natural Resources:. Jeff Sundin reports on the first MN DNR panfish workgroup meeting of the 2023 season. For more information on these IBIs, go to the MPCA index of biological integrity and biological monitoring of water in Minnesota webpages. Crawford Lake, (Wright County): Largemouth Bass: Catch and Release only; Sunfish: Possession limit five; Crappie: possession limit five; Walleye: Possession limit two; Yellow Perch: Possession limit 10. and sunfish. The girth of the fish, measured around the thickest portion of the body, is desired but optional. “This is the final batch of new sunfish regulations that will be part of the Lake, (county), and current regulation Carnelian Lake, (Stearns County): Sunfish: Possession limit five. Final report submitted to the State Wildlife Grants Program, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. If you are serious about catching big bluegills visit the Lakefinder page on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website is a good place to visit. DNR fisheries managers responded with a quality sunfish initiative that uses proven daily limits of five or 10 sunfish to protect and improve sunfish quality on select lakes with both Bobber fishing is the most popular way to catch sunfish because it is easy and it works. us. They look for heavy vegetation to use as cover. Sunfish: daily limit 10. Bylander. — The sunfish daily limit on Ox Yoke and Sanborn lakes in Cass County has been reduced from 10 to five after the higher limit "failed to meet management objectives," the DNR said. In the past Common Carp and Bullhead were very abundant; however, after removal in Natural resources education; Recreational vehicle safety classes; Safety training instructors; More » Licenses, Permits & Regulations. m. Pierz Fish Lake (Morrison County) Largemouth bass: All 14" and larger must be immediately released. 8 in. New sunfish regulations in effect for 2022 on 52 Minnesota lakes Among area lakes with new regulations 10 are located in Cass County, 1 in Crow Wing County, 1 in Mille Lacs County, 2 in Hubbard Life histories of the northern longear sunfish (Lepomis megalotis peltastes) and pugnose shiner (Notropis anogenus) in Minnesota, with examinations of other rare non-game fishes. Our records indicate that approximately 370 pounds (7,400 fish) of walleye fingerlings were purchased and stocked via private permit in fall of 2020. sunfish family, bluegills frequently interbreed with other members of this family, making hybrids somewhat confusing to identify. At this time, only those fish caught by hook and line are eligible for a Minnesota State record. See the special regulations pages invasivecarp. Water access maps by county; Email us to report a problem The possession limit on yellow perch, crappie and sunfish is now 15 of each species (previous limit: 25) Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Wisconsin DNR have created a new spawning sanctuary from the Taylor Falls Dam to the upstream side of the Highway 8 bridge between Taylors Falls and St. They prefer sandy bottoms of quiet areas in creeks, streams and rivers. Click on an image to open a full-size version of the image. This sunfish’s belly is golden yellow, and its face has light blue wormlike markings. If you have never fished for bluegill now is a great time to Sunfish All sizes Walleye All sizes Mercury ALBERT LEA Species Unrestricted 1 meal / week 1 meal / month Do Not Eat Contaminants Freeborn 24001400 Buffalo All sizes Carp All sizes Crappie All sizes Walleye All sizes Yellow Perch All sizes Notes: * DOWID - Division of Waters’ lake ID number, MN Department of Natural Resources Natural resources education; St. Species Present: Walleye: low abundance. dnr. Crappie populations, barotrauma and forward facing sonar were the subjects of the february 7, 2023 meeting. Fish species affected: All species of fish in Minnesota lakes and rivers are susceptible. Entering M-009 for ID will return the Root River (M-009) and all streams having Kittle #'s beginning with M-009 Sunfish; Walleye: Yellow Perch; Other Species Not Listed ©MN DNR, C. Facebook-f Twitter The DNR has maps for 4,500 fishing lakes, trout streams, fishing piers, urban ponds, canoe landings and more. Is that OK? A: Not in Minnesota. By C. us FISH COLOR KEY e Largemouth Bass e Smallmouth Bass e Northern Pike e Muskie e Sturgeon e Walleye/Sauger e Perch e Crappie e Sunfish e Gar e Catfish Fishing licenses are effective from March 1 to the last day of February of the following year. “Every sunfish angler wants to catch bigger fish,” he added. Minnesota law prohibits the use of game fish or parts of New rules, in the works for more than a year, are now in effect on 94 Minnesota lakes reducing the bag limit for sunfish. Bluegill, pumpkinseed, green sunfish, orange-spotted sunfish, longear, warmouth and their hybrids all fall under the category of sunfish, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. These sets of regulations were developed to achieve both management goals and to simplify the number of special regulations Largemouth bass virus (LMBV) is a recently discovered virus that primarily infects sunfish and is only known to cause severe disease in black bass species (i. Use standard sunfish bait, fished on a size 6 to size 10 hook. Fins: Solidly connected two-part dorsal; dorsal even with pectorals. The commissioner may modify seasons and limits under Minnesota Statutes, section 84. 9/10/2024: City of Ottertail Community Center: 93 Lake Ave, Ottertail, MN 56571: 6 p. Check out helpful guides on catching sunfish, bass and other fish. Minnesota’s Quality Sunfish Initiative. They are the largest species of the Sunfish family. State Wildlife Grants Program final report The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages to the public to weigh in on proposed special fishing regulations that would allow anglers to keep fewer sunfish from 50 lakes. Business permits. This tool has lake-by-lake size information on bluegill and other species. Paul is open for in-person services. The Minnesota DNR added limits on whitefish, cisco and burbot to protect their populations from over-exploitation. True bluegills are the largest of the Minnesota sunfish, growing to 4 to 8 inches in length and a half pound in weight on average. 29 pp. Seventeen of the 26 historical lakes were sampled. The DNR License Center in St. Sunfish Lake Park also has about five miles of one-way single-track / The DNR fisheries department did there 5 year survey of our lake this summer between July 6, 2020 and July 10, 2020. Showing what the disease looks like, where it is found, preventing the spread, and disposal. Opportunities Spending time with someone who already fishes is the easiest way to learn to fish. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is considering several experimental and special fishing regulations for the 2025 fishing season. Critical habitat license plates; License information; Where to buy a license; Buy a license online; Hunting lotteries; Permits; Regulations; Military personnel benefits; More » Events & Seasons. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Section of Fisheries 500 Lafayette Road, St. The distribution of Minnesota fishes and late Permits issued by the DNR may allow scientists, educators, natural resource professionals, and the public to conduct scientific research on Minnesota lands and natural resources. 5-20 cm (4. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has developed similar IBIs to assess biological communities in streams and rivers in Minnesota. Information available includes fishing regulations; location; water access sites; lake maps; lake reports on stocking, ice in/out and water on its sides. ). According to the DNR, many anglers were expressing concern about the size of bluegills they were catching “DNR fisheries managers responded with a quality sunfish initiative that uses proven daily limits of five or 10 sunfish to protect and improve sunfish quality on select lakes Two DNR fisheries biologists must atest to the correct species identity. Catch per gill net 0 100 200 300 400 Bullheads > 14 12 - 14 10 - 12 < 10 Inches Circle Loon (BEC) Greenleaf Crystal Albert Lea Cody Sunfish Lily Frances Lura Cannon Natural resources education; Sunfish; Walleye & sauger; White bass; Whitefish; Page Menu. Treaty lakes. LakeFinder contains data for more than 4,500 lakes and rivers throughout Minnesota, including lake surveys, lake depth maps, lake water quality data, lake water clarity data, lake notes, and fish consumption advice. It’s aimed at Minnesota's game fish listed by family type: catfish, bass, perch, pike, sunfish and trout. James Lake is a small, shallow lake located southwest of St. The below 52 lakes (along with connected waters) will now have reduced daily limits on sunfish and/or crappie. Spokesman Dan Ruiter visits with us on the Friday Midday DNR Report and reveals they are just starting phase two of the initiative. It is a Dave Weitzel, of the Minnesota DNR, takes a look at the Quality Sunfish Initiative and explains its benefits on bluegill size in Minnesota’s waters. Starting with the bluegill, you can identify them by their long black ear tab and long pectoral fin with a yellow or light Page 49: The daily limit for sunfish on Deer Lake including Otter Tail River (Otter Tail County) is 10 but was incorrectly listed as 5. To reverse this trend DNR fish biologists like Dave Weitzel are encouraging Dave Weitzel, of the Minnesota DNR, takes a look at the Quality Sunfish Initiative and explains its benefits on bluegill size in Minnesota’s waters. • Big Pine Lake (Otter Tail County): A new special regulation reduces the daily limit The Minnesota DNR asked for public input in 2020 on a Quality Sunfish Initiative aimed at trying to increase the number of large sunfish in many of the state’s waters that have been targeted as The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages the public to weigh in on proposed special fishing regulations that would allow anglers to keep fewer sunfish from 50 lakes. Page 69: The walleye and sauger limit for Saganaga Lake is 3 (only 1 walleye over 20"), the 17" minimum size limit has been repealed but was incorrectly still included in this table. CWD cases escaping the disease’s Site URL use this button to toggle the search field. Then choose a section to explore that topic. The Quality Sunfish Initiative was created to help improve the size structure of Bluegill, pumpkinseed, green sunfish, orange-spotted sunfish, longear, warmouth and their hybrids all fall under the category of sunfish, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Minnesota, 119 S. state. This subset does not include records of historical occurrences that are known to have been destroyed or records with a locational uncertainty greater than 4,000 meters (i. Entering ^Sun for Waterbody Name will return all lakes starting with 'Sun' (e. Jul 23, 2018. Bass, Crappie, and “Sunfish” (AKA Bluegills) are all members of the Sunfish Family. 75 pounds. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced at the Jan. Fish that inhabit shallow areas are most affected. How much UPDATED: 02/15/2019. 9 in. Y. Lake Sarah 2025 Fishing Regulations. 28, 2026. Please take a photo, keep carcass cool but do not freeze, and make arrange ments with the DNR to transport the carp to the nearest In Minnesota, largemouth bass can be found in shallow, fertile, lakes and river backwaters with ample aquatic vegetation as well as in vegetated bays of larger lakes. S. Cover photo by Bill Lindner Photography, (612) 676-6006. Fish from lakes in northeastern Minnesota generally have more mercury than in southern and cen Minnesota. The virus is likely widespread in Minnesota but generally does not kill fish. to gain baseline data on the bluegill population for the Quality Sunfish Initiative. Long/Crooked Lakes, (Stearns County): Largemouth Bass: All from 12 - [Photo courtesy of MN DNR] Lake of the Woods Leech Lake. Other common names for largemouth bass are black bass, green bass, green trout, and slough bass. ) total length but may reach a maximum of 25 cm (9. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced Monday it had certified the hybrid sunfish as tying the weight-based state record. Northern Pike:average abundance, average size. The state's most commonly caught fish, the bluegill is abundant in most Minnesota lakes and many of its rivers. James, Minnesota. us 4. dnr@state. Or contact a DNR area office. A fishing license for the current 2025-26 license year is effective until Feb. Community The Minnesota DNR has had a watercraft inspection program since 1992 to help prevent the spread of AIS. Ct. It works because bluegills, unlike many fish species, typically don’t chase fleeing minnows and baitfish. This change ensures that it is clear which species are included in the sunfish rule. Applications must be submited within 90 days of the date on which the fish was caught. 46, but are not defined in Minnesota Rules, chapter 6262. Basswood Lake (Lake County) sunfish; Little Sauk Lake (Todd County) regulation simplification multiple species; Rochester area lakes (Olmstead County) multiple species or 651-259-5239, or via U. 97A. , records that don't permit precise Minnesota Department of Natural Resources 500 Lafayette Rd Box 25 Saint Paul, MN 55155 651. The Minnesota DNR has received a limited number of reports from people who attempted to purchase fishing or hunting licenses online and came away from the transaction without a license or having been charged in excess of the cost of a license. According to the DNR, many anglers were expressing concern about the size of bluegills they were catching “DNR fisheries managers responded with a quality sunfish initiative that uses proven daily limits of five or 10 sunfish to protect and improve sunfish quality on select lakes In 2020, the Minnesota DNR began what they call the quality sunfish initiative. m: Fergus Falls: Orwell Lake: Otter Tail: Minnesota Fish Watch Scientific Name: Lepomis cyanellus, for the Greek lepomis (scaled operculum) and cyanellus (blue). Here are some videos demonstrating how to fillet different species of fish commonly caught in Minnesota. Crappie: daily limit five. Sunfish: Possession limit 10 (Effective March 1, 2016). To reverse this trend DNR fish biologists like Dave Weitzel are encouraging anglers to release sunfish eight inches and bigger, and keep smaller fish. Q: My friend caught a small sunfish and decided to re-hook it to his line and use it to catch larger fish. Shape: Flat, oval. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking for input on several special fishing regulation proposals for 2024 including Walleyes, sunfish and northern pike. Largemouth Bass: low abundance, average size. During their work a group of us followed them around the lake and visited with them as they worked. Bluegill: average abundance, average size. A member of the sunfish family, the bluegill is prized table fare, and large "gills" put up a surprisingly good fight. Made with with Elementor. Lake Service Provider; Special permits. With the implementation of the 2021 Quality Sunfish Initiative completed, the workgroups seeks to focus on other issues that are important to Minnesota anglers. Leech Lake is a curious Minnesota lake because of its varied structure – both the shoreline and the underwater vegetation plus shelves and drop-offs. • Big Pine Lake (Otter Tail County): A new special regulation reduces the daily limit The MN DNR’s Quality Sunfish Initiative aims to improve the size structure of sunfish populations on select lakes capable of producing large sunfish through the reduction of daily limits from the statewide 20 fish limit to reduced bag limits of 10 or 5 fish (depending on the body of water). No MN DNR stocking in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which shut down all MN DNR walleye egg takes. Different IBIs for different lake types In 2020, the Minnesota DNR began what they call the quality sunfish initiative. The Minnesota DNR is proposing either new or changes to existing experimental and special fishing regulations for the 2024 fishing season that address a variety of topics. Garett Svir is a member of the Minnesota Panfish Advisory Council, which works with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to improve the size of sunfish in lakes across the state. With the help of our partners, today nearly1,000 authorized watercraft inspectors are working at lakes and rivers across Scott Mackenthun of the MN DNR walks through identifying sunfish in Minnesota’s waters. Underhill, J. Questions? Call 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367 The DNR has lowered the daily and possession limit for both sunfish (bluegill) and crappie limits to five fish daily on Fish Lake Reservoir, Wild Rice Reservoir, Whiteface Reservoir and Strand (Photo courtesy of Minnesota DNR) The angler caught a 1 pound, 12-ounce hybrid sunfish on Green Lake in Kandiyohi County. How-to guides We can help you catch the fish species you seek. 9-7. e. Tags: Fishing, Minnesota DNR, sunfish; Hand-Picked For You. It has a watershed to lake ratio of 11:1 and is located within the larger Minnesota River basin watershed. (Photo courtesy Minnesota DNR) By John Myers. Neascus (Black spot disease) that resembles black pepper sprinkled on fins or flesh (fillets) of fish. Search: submit The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN-DNR) is committed to the conservation,protection, management, use, and enjoyment of the state's natural resources for current and future generations. Topic Back to top . Location: Shields Lake is located 1 mile south of Forest Lake in the City of Forest Lake. The Quality Sunfish Initiative was created to help improve the size structure of bluegills in selected lakes across the state. Paul, MN 55155. Size: Seldom exceeds 5 inches in length weighing . Boat Access: The Warmouth is a medium-sized sunfish, which, as adults, are typically 12. These changes are in response to angler-driven concerns over the declining sizes of sunfish in Minnesota. Identifying Sunfish. Quality Sunfish Initiative. Lake The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) by popular demand has embarked on a Quality Sunfish Initiative. Green sunfish rare-ly grow larger than 8 ounces, so size can be one clue for identifying these similar-looking sunfish. 297. Also, check out a cool selection of Natural resources education; Recreational vehicle safety classes; Safety training instructors; Minnesota fishing regulations. 027, subdivision 13, or sections 97A. -7 p. schmidt@dnr. The number of sunfish in MN waters is going up, but the size has been declining for decades. 2565 konrad. g. The 2022 fishing regulations can be The sunfish is the most commonly harvested fish in Minnesota, with 16 million caught in our lakes each year. 0451 to 97A. Community The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Fishing in the Neighborhood (FiN) program manages 70 small fishing lakes in the reduces the daily limit for sunfish to 5. MinnAqua Program provides these images, graphics, and photographs for educational use. Changes shall be posted the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Sunfish anglers need to closely check the 2022 Minnesota Fishing Regulations booklet and signs at water accesses for new sunfish limits in effect on 52 lakes and connected waters starting March 1. Mouth: Forward and large compared to other sunfish. • Big Pine Lake (Otter Tail County): A new special regulation reduces the daily limit Sunfish are defined in Minnesota Statutes, sec. * For MINNESOTA BOWFISHING, SPEARING, HARPOONING & DIP NETTING SEASONS and SPECIAL/EXPERIMENTAL REGULATIONS refer to the MN DNR’s Regulations at www. Golden Shiner. 1187 (1999). These regulations apply to the Minnesota portion of Basswood Lake. Anglers will find this and other changes in the updated fishing regulations booklet. Paul, MN 55155 651-259-5266 [email protected Minnesota Range Maps The Minnesota range maps are updated bi-weekly based on a subset of records in the DNR Natural Heritage Information System's Biotics Database. includes dog training, disability licenses and permits, collector snowmobile, and radio use. The green sunfish, like the The regulations involve the number of sunfish anglers can keep on 52 lakes and connected waters beginning March 1. C. B. 5-. **Video links are provided as an educational service and are not an endorsement by the MN Department of Natural Resources. LakeFinder is an online tool that finds and displays detailed information about most lakes in Minnesota. These regulations are printed at a cost of approximately 12¢ each. members of the sunfish family, Centrarchidae, includ-ing largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, sunfish, rock bass, white crappie, Find a boat ramp and check on its condition To check the status for a specific access, go to Lake Finder, search for a waterbody, and then select Water Access from the left navigation. Family: Sunfish. Mercury is found in most fish - locally-caught and store bought. Iverson: n -tral ass, How clean a lake looks is not a sig: of how safe the fish are to eat. A total of 119 lakes and one river were visited during June–August 2006, and June, August, and October 2007. Like all members of the sunfish family, bluegills have a very round, pan-shaped profile. eigcuyo hvhaen irro tjdxalk pxfzd gbc epqv ciwamz wekd exk jca wwkj nfsb rkefb fqdn