Fishing Rules and Regulations
Fishing the St. Louis River Estuary: Regulations and Resources
Updated: September 2026
The St. Louis River Estuary offers excellent fishing opportunities for species including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, lake sturgeon, trout, and salmon. Because the estuary spans the Minnesota–Wisconsin border, anglers should be aware of special border water regulations, along with seasonal closures and other protections in certain areas.
Fishing regulations can change, so always check the current Minnesota and Wisconsin fishing regulations before heading out.
Understanding Fishing Closures Near the Fond du Lac Dam
Fishing regulations near the Fond du Lac Dam can be confusing. According to the Minnesota DNR, there are three distinct fishing zones between the dam and the lower St. Louis River Estuary:
Fond du Lac Dam to the Minnesota–Wisconsin boundary cable: Permanent Fish Sanctuary
The approximately half-mile stretch immediately downstream of the Fond du Lac Dam to the Minnesota–Wisconsin boundary cable is a permanent fish sanctuary.
No fishing is allowed in this area at any time of year, for any species.
The Minnesota DNR is working to replace the boundary cable as the legal marker for the sanctuary with a posted sign along the riverbank. This change is intended to make the boundary easier for anglers to identify and will not change the extent of the existing fish sanctuary. (2026 update)
Boundary cable to the Highway 23 bridge: Seasonal Fishing Closure
From the downstream boundary of the permanent fish sanctuary to the Highway 23 bridge, fishing is closed annually from March 1 through May 18 to protect fish during the spring spawning season.
Outside of this seasonal closure, fishing is allowed subject to applicable Minnesota–Wisconsin border water regulations.
Downstream of the Highway 23 bridge: Border Water Regulations
Below the Highway 23 bridge, there are no additional special seasonal closures associated with the Fond du Lac Dam sanctuary. Normal Minnesota–Wisconsin border water fishing regulations apply.
This area represents the vast majority of the St. Louis River Estuary—approximately 98% of its surface waters—and provides many opportunities to fish for species including lake sturgeon.
What About Above the Fond du Lac Dam?
St. Louis River waters upstream of the Fond du Lac Dam are not considered part of the St. Louis River Estuary or Minnesota–Wisconsin border waters. Minnesota's statewide inland fishing regulations apply to these waters.
Seasons, Limits and Other Regulations
Fishing rules in the estuary include open seasons, size limits, and daily catch limits for different species. For example, walleye typically have a minimum size and daily bag limit, which may differ slightly depending on the state. Northern pike, bass, panfish, and trout also have specific limits and seasons. Certain areas of the river may have seasonal closures to protect spawning fish, such as from the Fond du Lac Dam downstream during spring walleye spawning, or other protected zones in tributaries and wetlands.
Depending on where and when you fish, regulations may include open seasons, size limits, daily and possession limits, protected species, gear restrictions, and special harvest regulations.
Because regulations can change from year to year, anglers should consult the current Minnesota and Wisconsin DNR fishing regulations rather than relying on general species limits or previous years' rules.
Fish Consumption Guidance
Fish are an important local food source and part of the St. Louis River's culture and history. However, some fish may contain contaminants such as mercury or other legacy pollutants.
Fish consumption guidance can vary by species, fish size, location, and the person eating the fish. Anglers planning to keep their catch should review current Minnesota and Wisconsin fish consumption guidance.
Resources for Anglers
Minnesota DNR – Fishing Regulations: Current statewide and Minnesota–Wisconsin border water regulations
Wisconsin DNR – Fishing Regulations: Current Wisconsin seasons, limits, and fishing information
Minnesota Fish Consumption Guidance: Current guidance for safely eating locally caught fish
Wisconsin Fish Consumption Guidance: Current Wisconsin fish consumption advisories
Before you fish: Check the current regulations for the specific location, species, and season you plan to fish. Pay particular attention to the permanent fish sanctuary and spring seasonal closure near the Fond du Lac Dam.
