Unlimited Walleye? Idaho’s New Fishing Policy Has Midwest Anglers Buzzing
LAKE LOWELL, ID — A straightforward request from Idaho Fish and Game is going viral, thanks to a fish that’s beloved in the Midwest but unwelcome in one southwestern Idaho lake.
The Idaho Fish and Game announced in a press release back on June 11, 2025, to “catch, kill, and keep” any walleye caught in Lake Lowell, where there are no bag or possession limits for walleye. The announcement is going viral on social media even further after Idaho News 6 published a story about it. Fishermen across the Midwest have taken to social media with stunned reactions, sharing memes and updating their travel plans.
“Every Minnesota fisherman just had a stroke,” one user commented under a TikTok video shared by Idaho News 6. Another joked, “Cries in Minnesotan.”
And perhaps the most relatable comment of all?
“Here I am contemplating a 25-hour drive to unlimited walleye.”
Why Idaho Wants Them Gone
Idaho Fish and Game’s stance is clear: Walleye are not the right fit for Lake Lowell. Since their illegal introduction in 2022, biologists have expressed serious concerns about their potential to disrupt the lake’s established fishery, particularly the popular largemouth bass population.
“Unfortunately, walleye are established in Lake Lowell at this point,” said Art Butts, Regional Fisheries Manager. “We just need anglers to continue to catch, kill, and keep walleye and not release them alive.”
Butts emphasized that walleye are not inherently bad fish, they’re just not suitable for most Idaho waters, which lack the natural baitfish base (like minnows and shiners) walleye thrive on. In their absence, walleye often turn to other prized game fish to survive.
“Catch and Release?” Not Here
In contrast to the Midwest, where anglers practice catch-and-release or keep their walleye, as they are known as one of the best-tasting fish, Idaho is actively urging anglers to do everything but release them in Lake Lowell. Fish and Game has even removed the request to report walleye catches, asking only that fishermen remove them from the water, period.
That directive has left many out-of-state anglers both confused and amused.
“Imagine being told to kill every walleye you catch,” said one Wisconsinite on a fishing forum. “We throw parties when someone lands an 18-incher. Idaho's tossing them in garbage bags.”
Want to fish Lake Lowell?
No license exemption or special permit needed. Just your regular Idaho fishing license. And remember: walleye? Catch, kill, and keep.
Photo Credit by seth schulte on Unsplash
