GARRISON, MINN. (KWAD) – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is increasing the walleye harvest limit on Mille Lacs Lake beginning Saturday, giving anglers a chance to keep three fish instead of two through November 30.

The change comes after a slower-than-expected bite on the popular central Minnesota lake this summer. According to the DNR, anglers had harvested just 23.5% of the state’s allocation of 113,600 pounds of walleye as of July 31. That allocation is set jointly with the Ojibwe Tribes, which retain harvest rights on the lake.

The size restrictions remain in place. Anglers may only keep fish 17 inches or longer, with just one allowed over 20 inches.

“Our primary management objective is to maintain a healthy walleye population and remain within the state’s share of sustainable harvest,” said Brad Parsons, the DNR’s fisheries section manager. “The slow bite this year allows the DNR to meet that primary goal and offer anglers the chance to take home an extra fish during the remainder of the season.”

Officials attribute the slower catch rates to an abundance of natural forage, with strong hatches of yellow perch and cisco last year giving walleye an alternative food source. While that has reduced angler success, the DNR says it is a healthy sign for the long-term walleye population, noting many fish caught this season have been “plump.”

The 2025–26 walleye season on inland waters runs through Feb. 22, 2026.