I spoke with a wildlife officer. Because of the shortage, a lot of bait dealers are buying golden shiners from out of state. Officers are checking the dealers for invasive species (like Asian Carp). They didn't create the problem, but are working to protect our resource.

I don't know if the story about dumping a tank is factual or not. However, in my opinion, if a dealer has an over abundance of walleye in their tank, allowing the dealer to return the walleye to the lake, rather than issuing them a hefty fine would be using officer discretion. Again, just my opinion.

I've read on other threads here, and in other locations, about the problems minnow boats are having getting shiners. They can't even catch enough to pay for their gas. To me, that seems to be the root of the problem. I've never seen an exact reason. Some said poor water clarity from storms, others said the algae is causing clarity issues, and some said too many walleye (I suppose you could try to blame the wildlife people for that if you want.)

Please remember, wildlife officers have a job to protect the resource and are dedicated to their jobs, just like most of us. They are also avid hunters and anglers, just like us. When their aren't any minnows, they can't fish either. Just saying.

John