Minnesota Ice Anglers Reminded Of New Rules Concerning Hook-Setting Devices

As the upcoming ice fishing season quickly approaches in Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is providing clarification on rule changes regarding multiple hook configurations and length.

The DNR stresses that it's important for anglers throughout the state to be aware of rule changes because they will be in effect for the upcoming ice fishing season.

“Robust public input helped guide our development of these rules, and we are excited to implement them beginning this winter season,” said John Dunn, DNR’s fisheries rules and regulations coordinator.

Changes Regarding Automatic Hook-Setting Devices

According to the DNR, non-motorized devices that set the hook using the force of a spring device or the force of a bent fishing pole are now legal for use in Minnesota while ice fishing.

Keep in mind that the hook-setting component of any device must be non-motorized. Motorized jigging devices that are not designed to set the hook are considered legal. However, the device must not be capable of automatically reeling in the fishing line or retrieving fish.

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These devices are triggered automatically when a set bait is hit by a fish. The DNR says they are typically used with a “tip-up” type angling device and may reduce the number of swallowed hooks, reducing hooking mortality.

All other fishing regulations will still apply while using automatic hook-setting devices and automatic jigging devices. It's important to note that, as is required with all tip-up use, the angler must be within 200 feet of the tip-up and not leave it unattended.

Changes Regarding Multiple Hook Configuration and Length

Also, in regards to multiple hook configuration and length, the new rule clarifies that a single configuration for a line cannot have more than three hooks, and the total distance between hooks cannot exceed 18 inches measured along the line.

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In previous years, the length was not allowed to exceed 9 inches. The DNR believes that an increase to an 18-inch maximum length is better suited for larger gamefish, and it anticipates it will reduce the number of swallowed hooks and hooks that are otherwise deeply set into the fish, thereby decreasing hooking mortality.

This configuration is not specific to ice fishing and could be used by either ice or open water anglers.

Lastly, once rule changes are made, the DNR enacts them through regulations. Since these rule changes were made after the release of the current fishing regulations booklet, they will be listed in the 2026 Minnesota fishing regulations, which will be available in March of next year.