For Immediate Release

September 22nd, 2025

Minnesota DNR Announces Rule Change Allowing Non-Motorized Hook Setting Devices Effective Immediately

Rogers, Minnesota – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced a rule change allowing the use of non-motorized hook-setting devices for ice fishing, effective immediately.

According to the updated regulation:
“An angler fishing through the ice may take fish with a nonmotorized device that sets the hook using the force of a spring device or the force of a fishing pole that is released from a bent position when a fish takes the hook. An angler fishing through the ice may not use a device capable of automatically reeling or spooling the fishing line or otherwise capable of automatically retrieving a hooked fish.” (MN Rules Part 6262.0100, subp. 8)

This change will be included in the 2026 Minnesota Fishing Regulations book. The full amendment can be viewed here: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/6262.0100/

About the Predator Tip Up

The update has generated excitement among ice anglers across Minnesota, including the team at Clam Outdoors.  Clam manufactures the Predator Tip Up, a versatile device that can be used either as a traditional tip-up or as a non-motorized hook-setting device.

Since its release in 2023, Minnesota anglers have only been able to use the Predator Tip Up in its traditional setup. With this rule change, starting in the 2025 ice fishing season, they can now use the hook-setting function. This setup automatically sets the hook when a fish takes the bait, allowing anglers to then reel in their catch using their rod and reel.

Ice anglers in other states have been enjoying the automatic hook-setting feature since the Predator Tip Up’s launch, praising its ease of use and effectiveness.

“Automatic hook-setting devices are highly effective on light-biting species like perch, crappies, trout, and finicky walleyes, and they’re equally capable with larger fish such as pike and burbot. One of their greatest advantages is conservation: because the hook is set instantly, fish are seldom caught deep in the throat, making it far easier for anglers to release fish they don’t intend to keep with minimal injury.” states Caleb Wistad who is part of the team that created the Predator Tip Up with Clam Outdoors. 

The Predator Tip Up allows anglers to easily switch between the automatic hook-setting mode and the traditional tip-up setup by adjusting the trigger mechanism. The Predator Tip Up is available at clamoutdoors.com and through various outdoor retailers.

 For more information or to purchase the Predator Tip Up, please visit https://clamoutdoors.com/predator-tip-up

#END#