Minnesota anglers are reminded of new regulations and other changes for the general 2012 fishing season. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources officials said the changes are summarized on page 4 of the 2012 Minnesota Fishing Regulations booklet, which is available at any license agent or online at www.mndnr.gov/regulations/fishing.

New regulations for 2012 are listed below with the page number in the regulations booklet where anglers can find more detail.

The Minnesota Legislature repealed a requirement that watercraft display an aquatic invasive species (AIS) information sticker to avoid confusion when provisions of a new law go into effect in 2015. Although no longer required, placement of stickers on boats is still encouraged as a reminder about important AIS information.

The new law will require operators of trailers transporting watercraft or water-related equipment to complete an online AIS training course, beginning in 2015. When completed, trailer operators will receive a trailer sticker certifying their completion of the course.

Without repeal of the existing AIS sticker requirement, which was approved by the Legislature in 2011, display of both decals would have been required.

New experimental and special regulations were added or modified on six lakes and one stream with quality walleye, sunfish, crappie, brook trout or bass regulations (pages 34-54), as well. Length-based regulations on northern pike were dropped on 21 lakes, too.

Anglers are reminded to check online at www.mndnr.gov/regulations/fishing for the latest additions or corrections.