South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks is considering changing the current catch-and-release regulation for muskellunge to allow the harvest of fish over 45 inches. This decision will have a lasting impact on the future of South Dakota's muskie fishery.

South Dakota's muskie fishery is unique because these fish do not naturally reproduce. Every trophy musky in our lakes exists because of years of stocking, careful management, and the commitment to build a quality fishery. Once a trophy fish is harvested, it cannot replace itself.

As a musky angler, I know these fish are incredibly rare. A 45-inch musky isn't just another fish—it represents a decade or more of growth, survival, and careful management. These fish are one of the reasons anglers from South Dakota and across the Midwest choose to fish here. Those anglers support local communities, and the opportunity to catch a truly special fish is what keeps them coming back.

South Dakota has built a reputation for careful musky management. The current catch-and-release regulation, along with a year-round season, has made our state a destination for anglers who value quality fishing and conservation.

The opportunity to catch a trophy musky lasts only as long as we choose to protect them.

This isn't about taking away anyone's opportunity to fish. It's about protecting a limited resource so future generations have the same chance to experience these incredible fish.

If you believe South Dakota's trophy musky fishery is worth protecting, please sign this petition and ask SDGFP to continue protecting muskies through catch-and-release management.

Additional Ways to make sure South Dakota musky fishery stays Catch & Release:

There will be a public hearing in front of the SDGFP Commission September 10th, 2026 at 2pm in Winner, SD that can be joined in person or remotely via Zoom. All members of the public are welcome to join this and will have 3 minutes each to speak their opinion. Zoom link and meeting information will be posted at a later date on SDGFP website under the commision tab. Here is the link https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/

SUBMIT WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENT: People who are not able to make it in person or virtually to the public hearing can give their opinion through a written comment on the SDGFP website through the commission tab before the public hearing. Here is the link to find that https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/

All public comments, public hearing statements, and petitions will be considered by the commission on making the final ruling.

Please don't assume someone else will speak up. Whether you sign this petition, submit a comment, or attend the public hearing, your voice can help shape the future of South Dakota's muskie fishery.