DNR seeks public input on proposed walleye regulation for Marquette County lakes

On Tuesday, July 29, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. EDT a public meeting will be held to discuss walleye regulation changes for Teal Lake and Lake Independence in Marquette County. The meeting will be held at the Ishpeming Township Hall, 1575 U.S. Highway 41 West in Ishpeming.

Teal Lake and Lake Independence currently fall under the existing statewide regulation for walleye. There is a 15-inch minimum size limit requirement and a daily possession limit of five fish.

A regulation change under consideration adds a protected slot limit to these two inland lakes. This means that anglers would not be able to possess walleye measuring between 18 inches and 23 inches. Under the proposed regulation, the daily possession limit would remain at five walleyes. However, anglers could only possess one walleye that is greater than 23 inches.

The Management Plan for Walleye in Michigan’s Inland Waters was published in 2021 and provides a framework to guide walleye management efforts. Using guidance from the management plan, the primary goals of this regulation proposal are to increase spawning stock and promote long-term resiliency of the species.

These types of meetings are designed to gather public input and feedback on regulation changes being proposed before they are presented to the Michigan Natural Resources Commission for consideration. They’re also a great opportunity to meet fisheries managers and biologists and stay current on local fisheries.

Anyone unable to attend the July 29 in-person meeting is invited share their comments regarding this regulation proposal by completing this form: https://forms.office.com/g/L9Lx5Y5DTd.

Comments shared in person and digitally will be considered.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to providing Michigan residents the opportunity to share input and ideas on policy decisions, programs and other aspects of natural resource management. Regulation changes such as this one being proposed must be approved by the Michigan Natural Resources Commission, after soliciting public feedback.

To learn more about how the DNR manages Michigan's fisheries for current and future generations, visit Michigan.gov/Fishing.

Individuals who need mobility, visual, hearing, written or other assistance for effective meeting participation should contact the DNR ADA coordinator to make their needs known as far in advance as possible, but preferably at least 10 business days before the date of the scheduled meeting or event. Visit Michigan.gov/ADA for a list of state ADA coordinators.

An accompanying image is available below for download. Caption information follows. Credit: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, unless otherwise noted.

Walleye management: Michigan Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division staffers hold a walleye captured during a recent lake survey.