Wisconsin anglers can fish walleye and musky as planned after a federal court blocks tribal restrictions on select lakes.
3 Things to Know
- Walleye and musky season will open as scheduled across Wisconsin lakes
- A federal court blocked restrictions affecting 19 lakes within the Lac du Flambeau reservation
- Anglers must still follow all state regulations and respect other users on the water
Walleye and Musky Season Moves Forward Across Wisconsin
Photo by Tom Fisk
MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin anglers will be able to kick off the highly anticipated walleye and musky fishing season as planned on lakes across the state.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced Friday that a federal court ruling has cleared the way for the season to proceed without interruption. The decision comes after a temporary restraining order was issued in the Western District of Wisconsin, blocking recent efforts by the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians to limit fishing access for non-tribal anglers.
Federal Court Blocks Proposed Musky and Walleye Restrictions
Over the past month, the Lac du Flambeau Band passed resolutions attempting to prohibit non-tribal members from fishing walleye and musky on 19 lakes within reservation boundaries. Additional restrictions included limiting the use of forward trolling and forward-facing sonar.
In response, the State of Wisconsin filed a federal complaint seeking to prevent enforcement of those measures.
The court sided with the state, issuing a temporary restraining order that allows anglers to continue fishing as usual on affected waters.
“Today, the federal court issued a restraining order against the tribe, which means that non-tribal anglers may cast their lines as normal,” – Wisconsin DNR.
Lakes Impacted by the Decision
The ruling applies to several popular fishing destinations within the Lac du Flambeau reservation boundaries, including:
- Big Crawling Stone Lake
- Fence Lake
- Flambeau Lake
- Pokegama Lake
- Whitefish Lake
- Sugarbush Chain (Upper, Middle and Lower)
And more, totaling 19 lakes now open under standard statewide regulations.
Continued Emphasis on Conservation and Respect
While the legal process continues, state officials emphasized their commitment to working collaboratively with the Lac du Flambeau Band on long-term conservation efforts.
Anglers are also being reminded to follow all Wisconsin fishing regulations, including bag limits, and to remain respectful of tribal harvesters and other recreators on the water.
What It Means for Opening Weekend
For anglers across Wisconsin, the bottom line is simple: opening weekend is on. Boats will hit the water, lines will be cast, and one of the state’s most cherished outdoor traditions will move forward as scheduled.
Before you go fishing make sure to check the forecast on our Forecast page!
