MN SF3319

Prohibits the commissioner of natural resources from introducing muskellunge to new waters or stocking muskellunge in previously unstocked waters until August 1, 2022, with savings redirected to walleye stocking.

Authorizes county boards to request the commissioner limit or prohibit fish stocking within their jurisdiction by resolution, which the commissioner must comply with.

Allows muskellunge to be taken by spearing in nonmuskellunge waters (waters where muskellunge are not indigenous or commissioner-stocked) and requires a 20-inch minimum size limit in such waters by July 1, 2018.

Imposes a moratorium on muskellunge stocking in Otter Tail County waters until August 1, 2023, and requires a stakeholder group to examine muskellunge's effects on the county's environment and native fish.

Appropriates $50,000 in fiscal year 2019 to the University of Minnesota Board of Regents to conduct an independent study on muskellunge stocking effects in Otter Tail County, with results due to the legislature by March 1, 2020.