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February 24.2026

2 Minutes Read

Catch-and-Release Bass Fishing Opens Year-Round for Minnesota Anglers

Close-up of bass in Minnesota catch-and-release fishing.

Exciting New Opportunities for Minnesota Anglers

Great news for fishing enthusiasts in Minnesota! Starting February 23, 2026, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has implemented a new catch-and-release bass season, allowing anglers to fish for both largemouth and smallmouth bass year-round on inland waters. This change means you can now enjoy bass fishing before the traditional May fishing opener, expanding your fishing experiences!

Support from the Community

The decision to open this new season wasn’t made lightly. During a survey conducted in 2023, a staggering 91% of over 3,000 anglers indicated their support for earlier bass fishing opportunities. The proposal received backing not just from individual anglers but also from local tribal groups including the Leech Lake Band and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. They emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring of bass populations to ensure sustainability as fishing opportunities expand.

The Science Behind the Decision

One of the reasons for this extension is the thriving bass populations in Minnesota. According to Eric Altena, a fisheries supervisor, bass sizes and numbers have increased significantly in recent years. The DNR has found that catch-and-release practices before the bass spawning season, which peaks in late May, do not harm fish populations.

What Other Changes Are Coming?

This year's regulations also include updates affecting various other species and specific waters across the state, indicating a significant refresh in Minnesota fishing rules. For instance, the season opener for stream trout harvest is now set for the second Saturday in April, and the previous limit for Atlantic salmon in Lake Superior has been increased to a total of five combined salmon.

Fishing Regulations to Keep in Mind

While the catch-and-release season has been adopted, the existing harvest season dates for bass remain unchanged. It’s important to note that anglers are required to follow different regulations for border waters, which can be found in the regulations published by the Minnesota DNR. Updating your knowledge on these rules is essential to ensure a fun and legal fishing experience!

Get Ready for a Great Fishing Season

The excitement around this new catch-and-release season is palpable across fishing communities in Minnesota. With the fishing regulations book already available, ensure that you familiarize yourself with the latest updates before heading out. With fishing season now in full swing, gather your gear, grab your friends and family, and enjoy the beautiful Minnesota waters!

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