MARSHALL — A Minnesota state legislator is proposing licensing stamps that would allow anglers to fish for walleye with two lines instead of one.

This week, Rep. Chris Swedzinski, R-Ghent, said the proposal could help anglers be more successful fishing, even if the Minnesota DNR reduces the state’s walleye limit.

“My bill would help more people have success on the water and come home happy,” Swedzinski said.

The DNR is proposing to reduce the statewide walleye daily and possession limit from six fish down to four. Anglers would only be allowed to possess one walleye longer than 20 inches. If the rule is enacted, it would go into effect for the 2027 fishing season.

The current walleye limit was put in place in 1956. According to the DNR, factors like climate conditions, invasive species and an increase in fish-finding technology have all put pressure on walleye populations since that limit set.

Last year, Swedzinski introduced a bill that would let a person with a walleye stamp use two lines to fish in open water, and four lines to ice fish.

“It’s been an issue we’ve been working on for a long time,” Swedzinski said.

In neighboring South Dakota, anglers are allowed to use two lines to fish in open water, and four in winter, he said.

Swedzinski said his proposal would help anglers in Minnesota successfully catch fish, even if the walleye limits are lowered. It would also serve as an incentive for people to buy walleye stamps and help increase revenue for fish stocking, he said.

Last spring, Swedzinski’s proposed bill was referred to the House Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee. Swedzinski said he hopes the bill will get a hearing right away in the 2026 legislative session.

“If we want younger people to put down their screens and fish in Minnesota, having success is huge,” Swedzinski said. “Nothing gets you back on the water faster than the thrill of actually catching fish. It keeps you coming back for more.”

The DNR is accepting public comments about the proposed lower walleye limit until 4:30 p.m. on March 5. More information on the proposed reduced walleye limit, and information on submitting comments, is available on the Minnesota DNR website at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/input/rules/fisheries/reduced-wall eye-limit.html.