The Minnesota legislature has passed and signed into law an enormous funding bill today.  Of note, there is a lot of funding in it for outdoor activities, state parks, access upgrades, etc.  Here are a few that caught my attention.

 

MN will allow the use of a crossbow for anyone now regardless of age during the entire deer, bear, and wild turkey archery season.  Previously, you had to be 60+ years old or have a disability permit.  The compound bow purists aren't gonna like this one.

 

A quota-based hunting and trapping season could occur for wolves if federal protections are lifted.  It would be managed by the MN DNR.

 

A $100 fine will be imposed against anyone caught littering or leaving human waste on the ice while ice fishing.  Any fish house, shelter, or vehicle on the ice must have a designated trash receptacle with it or face potential citation.

 

2 lines in open water will be permitted on the Minnesota River between Granite Falls and the confluence of the Mississippi, and also permitted downstream of St Anthony Falls to pool 3 on the Mississippi.

 

A couple items that did not pass:

 

An increase in hunting and fishing licenses fees.

 

A total ban on small lead fishing tackle.

 

Removal of the slug zone for deer hunting.

@gimruis MN lawmakers have certainly been busy recently. But only $100 fine for littering? 

9 hours ago, Jar11591 said:

But only $100 fine for littering

Really should be more severe but at least it’s something. I just hope it’s enforced regularly.