Big Swan Lake’s northern pike experimental regulation up for review September 18, 2012

The public is invited to a discussion of experimental fishing regulations on Todd County’s Big Swan Lake from 6 – 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18, at Bruno’s Supper Club, 30905 County Road 13, Burtrum.
Located in south-central Todd County near Burtrum, Big Swan Lake covers nearly 900 acres. Since 2008, it has had an experimental northern pike protected slot limit of 24 to 36 inches, with one more than 36 inches, and a daily bag limit of three. Prior to 2008, a 24-inch maximum length limit was in place since 1997. Fisheries data collected since 1997 show an improved size structure of northern pike, with individual pike larger than 36 inches more common in spring assessments than in previous years.
Public input on existing experimental regulations will help DNR fisheries staff determine whether those regulations should be continued, modified or dropped. People unable to attend the public input meeting may submit written comments to the DNR Little Falls area fisheries office, 16543 Haven Road, Little Falls, MN 56345. Comments also will be taken via email ateric.altena@state.mn.us, or by phone at 320-616-2450, ext. 225.
Comments on Big Swan Lake also will be accepted during an open house from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 26, at the DNR Central Office, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul. All comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 8.