DNR Proposes License Fee Increase

ST. PAUL -- It would cost you more to go fishing and hunting in Minnesota under a proposal to hike license fees.

The DNR is pitching the plan because they say the Game and Fish Fund is expected to have a deficit by 2014.

DNR Fisheries Operations Supervisor Jason Moeckel says they have studied this issue closely and have found by adding additional options for the casual fisherman and casual hunter they can strike a balance while generating more revenue.

The DNR has not raised hunting fees since 2000 and angling fees since 2001. He says most sportsmen they have surveyed say a license increase is necessary to provide adequate management of our fisheries and wildlife.

Under the proposal, a resident angling license would increase from $17 to $24 while a deer license would go from $26 to $30.

Moeckel says they would also add a three-day angling license, 90-day angling license, three-day small game license and Super Sport license package that would include most hunting and fishing rights.

The proposal is in the hands of the legislature.