So has the DNR or anyone else for that matter made the possible connection that there is double the number of 2013 year class fish in the lake from the previous year because of the late ice out and the lack of gill netting by the tribes this spring? Spring 2012 was a very early ice out and the lake was heavily netted. Not a great leap of logic IMHO.
Bruesewitz said the cautious optimism is based largely on the strong numbers of young-of-the-year walleyes, six inches in length or slightly longer. “If these fish can make it through the winter and the following year, we could have a strong 2013 year class in the offing. Many of these fish are already of the size at which they have improved survival rates. This is a bonus.”
Yesterday, I spoke with Steve Lawrence from MNDNR Creel office. He said that during the month of September there were NO FISH measured by the creel checkers. As of 5:00 yesterday, there had only been 2 measured for the month of October.
Fall survey numbers are positive, but there is so much forage for the fish that they aren't biting on your classic presentation. Therefore, anglers aren't picking many up right now.
The yearly quota won't be reached for 2013, unless there is a MAJOR turnaround between now and New Years. So they won't shut it down THIS year. (Chippewa tribes reported around 15,000 pounds of their 72,000 quota this spring)
No changes in either the slot or possession limit are planned.
MM
