Monday, December 8th, 2025

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Monday, December 8th, 2025

Breaking News for

Sportsmen Since 1968

Fish slot-setting: Based on science, or arbitrary?

Protected “slots” for walleyes in certain Minnesota lakes have been the rule for years now. In very general terms, the slots are intended to protect spawning fish in productive lakes. (Stock photo)

The Minnesota DNR sets limits for game fish that can vary from lake to lake. For example, on Lake Winnibigoshish, anglers may keep (and possess) six walleyes – one over 23 inches (tail pinched) or all under 18 inches. Whereas on Leech Lake, a few miles away, the limit is four walleyes, with one over 20 allowed in the limit.
Of course, you’re on the honor system. If I have six walleyes in my freezer at my place on Leech, I’d have to say they came from Winnie.

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