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MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minnesota Asks Anglers Whether Winter Trout Seasons Should Keep Separate Opening Dates
An ongoing DNR questionnaire examines season timing and fishing preferences, with responses accepted through January 31 and no changes taking effect before March 2028.
SAINT PAUL, MN (October 25, 2026). Minnesota anglers have an opportunity to weigh in on whether the state should retain separate winter trout opening dates for lakes inside and outside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
The Department of Natural Resources opened its consultation October 15 and will accept responses through January 31, 2027. The agency is evaluating the season’s structure rather than announcing an immediate change to fishing regulations.
What the questionnaire asks
The five-question survey begins with the existing distinction between lakes entirely within the Boundary Waters and lakes outside or partly outside it.
The questionnaire describes the general winter opening as January 1 inside the wilderness and the Saturday closest to January 15 elsewhere. Respondents can indicate whether they prefer maintaining separate dates or establishing one opening.
Another question asks whether the season should begin on a fixed calendar date or always on a Saturday. The survey also asks whether the winter season feels too short, too long or about right.
A question about harvest and larger fish
The DNR also asks respondents to consider a potential tradeoff.
The questionnaire states that a longer season could increase harvest and reduce the number of quality-sized trout. Participants can indicate whether they favor more fishing time even with a lower likelihood of catching larger fish, or a shorter season if it increases that likelihood.
That question seeks public preferences. It is not a finding that a particular proposed extension would produce a quantified decline.
The consultation covers lake trout and the species grouped as stream trout in Minnesota lakes, including brook, brown and rainbow trout and splake.
Who can participate
The survey includes categories for summer and winter anglers, people who do not fish for trout, northeast Minnesota business owners and community members. Participation is therefore not limited to anglers who currently fish inside the Boundary Waters.
Any resulting season changes would take effect no earlier than March 2028, according to the DNR.
Residents can complete the online questionnaire. A paper copy can be requested from fisheries research scientist Beth Holbrook at 218-203-4312.
Mailed comments may be addressed to Beth Holbrook, Fish and Wildlife Division, 1601 Minnesota Drive, Brainerd, MN 56401.
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