This bill modifies existing trapping provisions in Minnesota's game and fish laws. It establishes that trapping seasons for fur-bearing animals will begin at sunrise on the designated opening day. The bill amends section 97B.931 to allow individuals to use portable artificial lights to tend traps during the day, while also specifying that body-gripping traps need not be tended more frequently than once every third calendar day. Additionally, it introduces a new subdivision regarding snares, stating that snares not capable of drowning captured animals also need not be tended more frequently than once every third calendar day, with the requirement that any captured animal must be removed from the snare.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 97B.945 to restrict setting traps near water, allowing for the use of foot-encapsulating traps 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 provided, detailing its design specifications. Lastly, the bill repeals a specific Minnesota Rule regarding the tending of snares, which previously mandated that snares not capable of drowning captured animals must be tended daily.

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