HF2824

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to amend current fish angling regulations in Minnesota to allow for a continuous open season for certain fish species, specifically targeting largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Main Provisions

• The bill proposes changes to the Minnesota Statutes, particularly section 97C.395, which deals with the open seasons for different fish species.
• The new provision states that the open season for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass will be continuous, meaning these species can be caught year-round without any seasonal restrictions.
• The bill also confirms that other fish such as sunfish, crappie, perch, and various others are included in this continuous open season category.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Previously, the fishing season for largemouth and smallmouth bass was limited to a specific period, generally starting from the second Saturday before Memorial Day through the last Sunday in February.
• With this amendment, restrictions related to the seasonal angling period for these species will be lifted, allowing for year-round angling activities.
• The regulation change is meant to optimize fishing opportunities while ensuring resource protection is managed through other means, such as area-specific closures during spawning as determined by the commissioner.

Relevant Terms

• Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass
• Continuous Open Season
• Angling Regulations
  
• Fish Spawning Closures
  
• Minnesota Statutes Section 97C.395