DNR Invites Public To Virtual Meeting On Lake Mendota Bass Regulation Changes

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to attend a meeting on the proposed changes to largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing regulations on Lake Mendota in Dane County on Dec. 7, 2020. 

The proposal would change the current 18-inch minimum and a daily bag limit of one for largemouth and smallmouth bass to the statewide bass regulation of a 14-inch minimum with a daily bag limit of five, effective Jan. 1, 2021.

The current regulation is no longer needed to provide optimum use and management of the fishery resource and, under s. NR 20.35 (3), Wisconsin Administrative Code, removal of these special regulations is warranted.

The DNR encourages the public to join the meeting on Dec. 7, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom or by calling 312-626-6799 and using meeting ID 989 1242 5492#.

Lake Mendota's 2019 fishery survey data showed a largemouth and smallmouth bass fishery with quality size structure, moderate density, stable population, elevated growth, regular recruitment and excellent body condition. Additionally, a recent survey of area anglers showed that anglers are unlikely to harvest bass and restrictive regulations are not needed to maintain the fishery's quality.

The Lake Mendota largemouth and smallmouth bass fishery management goal is to provide angling opportunities for largemouth bass between 12-15 inches in length and smallmouth bass between 11-14 inches, and harvest opportunities consistent with statewide standard bass regulations.

To learn more about Wisconsin fishing regulations, visit the DNR fisheries webpage.