This bill modifies existing trapping provisions in Minnesota's game and fish laws. It introduces a new section, 97B.902, establishing that trapping seasons for fur-bearing animals will begin at sunrise on the designated opening day. Additionally, it amends section 97B.931 to allow individuals to use portable artificial lights while tending traps, removing the previous restriction that prohibited tending traps between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. The bill also introduces a new subdivision regarding snares, stating that snares not capable of drowning captured animals need only be tended once every third calendar day, with the requirement that any captured animal must be removed.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 97B.945 to clarify restrictions on setting traps near water, allowing foot-encapsulating traps to be set within 50 feet of water without a special permit during the 30 days leading up to the open season for mink and muskrat. The definition of a foot-encapsulating trap is also provided. Lastly, the bill repeals Minnesota Rules, part 6234.2400, subpart 10, which mandated that snares not capable of drowning must be tended daily, thus aligning the regulations with the new provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97B.931, 97B.945