Seeking Feedback: Channel Catfish Regulation

Association members - Do you have feedback regarding the channel catfish regulation on the Chain of Lakes?  

The DNR is seeking comments regarding the review of the current Experimental fishing regulation for channel catfish on the Chain.

 A little history, channel catfish were stocked into Horseshoe and Cedar Island lakes from 1976 – 1988 in an effort to decrease the abundance of bullheads and black crappie with the goal of increasing the growth of black crappie. While abundance of both species decreased, the abundance of channel catfish increased to point that the DNR was receiving complaints regarding their abundance. Starting March 1, 2015, the channel catfish possession limit was increased from five to 10 while allowing one fish > 24” in the possession limit.  

Since 2013, data indicates that the channel catfish population (based on gill net data) has been decreasing from a high of 27.4/net in 2013 to 3.9/net in 2024. However, the average size has increased from 16.6 inches and 1.4 lbs. in 2013 to 21.7 inches and 3.7 lbs. in 2024. Angler surveys conducted between December 2014 and October 2015 indicated that about 50% of all catfish caught were released indicating that harvest is unlikely the cause of the population decrease. DNR ageing data also found that this population is an ageing population with 82% of the population being age-10 or older indicating that these fish are starting to age out of the population.

.Your input is appreciated and can be submitted via engage.DNR.state.mn.us as well as by emailing Area Fisheries Manager Joe Stewig at joe.stewig@state.mn.us. Input will be received through 10/11/2024.  The DNR will make a decision in November with any changes being implemented March 1, 2025.