Senator Rich Draheim (R–Madison Lake) has introduced Senate File 3877, legislation that would prohibit the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) from setting daily catch limits or possession limits on native rough fish in Minnesota.

Currently, there is no daily or possession limit on most native rough fish species in Minnesota. In February, the DNR proposed new limits that would take effect in 2027.

“Native rough fish haven’t had limits for decades, and Minnesotans want to keep it that way,” said Sen. Draheim. “Unlimited harvest doesn’t threaten rough fish populations. The DNR’s proposed rule changes offer no real benefit to the angler or the habitat. Introducing limits is government overreach that will only hurt the communities who rely on unlimited harvest.”

The proposed limits include:

• Bowfin: 6 per day
• Buffalo fish: 5 (northern zone) / 30 (southern zone)
• Suckers and redhorse: 30
• Carpsuckers and quillback: 30
• Freshwater drum: 30
• Mooneye and goldeye: 30

The House companion bill is House File 4594.