General restrictions on taking fish

This rulemaking will clarifiy the definition of a hook, increase the distance allowed between multiple hooks on a single line and allow some automatic hook-setting devices

What will this rulemaking will do?
  1. Clarify what constitutes a hook and what a single configuration may contain. The current language states that "an angler may have up to three single or multiple hooks on a line." Although the limit of three applies to both single hooks and multiple hooks (e.g., treble hooks), the language has been interpreted by some as three single hooks or an undetermined number of multiple hooks. The language change would include a clarification of what constitutes a "hook" and that a single configuration can have no more than three hooks. The clarification will allow for improved understanding of the rule and make enforcement easier.
  2. Multiple hook configuration length allowance. Quick strike/multiple hook configurations were defined in rule since 2012 as having a maximum length of 9 inches. The proposed increase to an 18-inch maximum length is better suited for larger gamefish and is anticipated to reduce the number of swallowed hooks and deep hook sets, thereby decreasing hooking mortality. The proposal also allows anglers to use a wider range of commercially available products, will be more practical for the large bait that anglers are using, and will better allow for good mouth sets because anglers can set the hook sooner and before the hook is swallowed. The change in maximum length of hook configurations poses no threat to fisheries conservation.
  3. Allow some through-the-ice hook-setting devices. The proposed change would allow the use of non-motorized devices that set the hook using the force of a spring device or the force of a bent fishing pole. These devices are triggered automatically when a set bait is hit by a fish. These devices are typically used with a "tip-up" type angling device and may reduce the number of swallowed hooks, reducing hooking mortality. No fisheries conservation threats attributed to this proposed modification have been identified. Use of these devices would be limited to angling through the ice. As is required with all tip-up use, the angler must be within 200 feet of the tip-up.
Who might be affected by these rule changes?
  • Anglers who anglers who use multiple hooks on a line.
  • Ice anglers who wish to use automatic hook-setting devices.
Where do I send my comments?

You have until 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2025, to submit comments to the DNR contact person listed below

You may request a hearing on these rules. If at least 50 persons submit a valid request for a hearing and a sufficient number do not withdraw their requests (reducing the number below 50), then a public hearing will be held before an administrative law judge. The Notice of Intent to Adopt Expedited Rules tells you how to submit a request for hearing to the DNR contact person.

Where can I get more information?

If you want a free copy of the proposed rules, call or email the DNR contact person listed below.

DNR contact person

Bethany Bethke
Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Section of Fisheries
500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155
651-259-5266
[email protected]

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