league regulations or laws

[walleyeking#8]

Was wondering if anyone knew what the regs or laws were pertaining to starting a fishing league? I would like to start a walleye only league with only a limited amount of teams and the league fee would be minimal. Would appreciate any info. Thanks

[Mark Christianson]

I would highly suggest calling your local Fisheries office.

Here is a link to the DNR fisheries on the web with some info in regards to your question:
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/tournaments/regulations.html

I can tell you that a friend of mine in the MN DNR Fisheries is getting increased numbers of complaints coming across his desk in the last few years, because the numbers of leagues/clubs is increasing dramatically.
Lakeshore owners are complaining and other fisherman are complaining.
There are several complaints, but a couple big ones are the "shotgun" starts and boat launches being monopolized by a league.
There are some west metro lakes that have leagues showing up at least a few nights every week, and on some nights there are multiple leagues showing up at certain launches.

[Dan Wood]

If you don't want to deal with permits, you need to stay under 30 people and the entry fee must be no greater than $25 per person. If your under those limits, you don't need a permit. Otherwise, you'll need to contact the DNR for a permit.