Bass Season Dates

[Juan Grande]

Why would anyone argue for an earlier opener, to help the State economy? No, because they want to fish sooner.

Well said Search Function. It all comes down to whether pulling bass off beds and releasing them has a negative impact on their spawning success rate. If it does then keep the season closed, if it doesn't then have C&R during the spawn. They could even adjust the C&R season yearly to protect the bass during late spawns like this year. Based on the research you're citing, releasing spawning bass does not hurt recruitment.

[RawHog]

Having the same opener date year after year is senseless because each winter/spring is unique. Arbitrarily assuming the spawn will be over/ending by the 27th is just wrong. If the opening date is supposed to protect the spawn opener should depend on water temperature, not a "traditional" date.

[Juan Grande]

If the date was based on science and logic then yes. If they closed the season until the spawn was done we wouldn't be bass fishing until July this year, however.

I say no closed season, but an adjustable C&R season from Jan 1 (or some date) until the regional fisheries office decides the spawn is done. Then the C&R only is lifted.

C&R year round would be the easiest solution I guess.

[mattrd]

What about opening it all year. Reducing the daily limit to 3 and having a Minimum 15" size limit for lakes.

[Craigums]

What about opening it all year. Reducing the daily limit to 3 and having a Minimum 15" size limit for lakes.

I never understood the concept of having a minimum size. If people want to keep bass I'd rather see them take the little guys out.

[mattrd]

True, just thought I'd throw it out there. That's what they do down here in IA. Maybe just reduce the limit then?

[RumRiverRat]

I proved last year that you can catch a bass fishing open water during a legal season every single month of the year.

Having to wait until the end of May to fish inland waters is a downer. But if you are willing to travel there are bass to be had on the Mississippi from Pool 2 all the way to the Iowa border.

I am on pace to do it this year again. Even with the terrible weather I managed to catch a bass in March and April this year. January and February are easy,March is the toughest especially was this year.

[Basscat]

Quote:

I believe that this year, this spring, the MN state record bass will be broken. Pretty sure the entire state will have the chance to catch a fat female full of eggs. I think there is a chance to eclipse the record by a good ammt as well, not just an ounce or two. maybe 1/2 pound or so even.

Quote:

Just to let you guys know, It'll probably be me who catches the new State record. Sorry.