With ice out slowly arriving on area lakes, Minnesotans are reminded to respect and honor rights of tribal members for the annual spring fishing harvest.
Tribal members are granted permits to spear or net in 1837 Treaty territory, which are areas ceded to the federal government by the tribes with the promise that tribal members would be able to hunt, fish and gather on the lands.
It is illegal to interfere or attempt to interfere with tribal members who are exercising treaty rights, including the spring harvest of walleye. Prohibited conduct against any tribal member includes, but is not limited to: stalking, obstructing access to lakes, recklessly operating watercraft, creating hazardous wakes, threatening violence and committing acts of violence.
Tribal right infringements can be reported to DNR conservation officers at 888-646-6367.
