Anglers Not Visiting Lake Mille Lacs, Businesses Suffering [AUDIO]

ISLE -- Many businesses who rely on Lake Mille Lacs' status as the premiere walleye lake are having one of their toughest summers in recent memory.

The Department of Natural Resources has a two fish limit and a slot limit of between 18 and 20 inches on Mille Lacs. That means most walleye must be thrown back.

Tony Roach of Roach's Guide Service says customers want the opportunity to catch fish AND keep them...

Roach says if anglers from out of state go elsewhere and have success, they won't return to Mille Lacs. He estimates that boat traffic is down 50% or more this year.

Mike Christensen owns Hunter Winfield's Resort in Isle. He says his guide service has taken a big hit this summer...

Christensen says his year-to-date business is down 20-25% overall, but a strong ice fishing season has helped them stay in the black. However, Christensen says that's not the case for many businesses on the lake who are struggling.