Lake of the Prairies was constructed in 1968 by impounding the Assiniboine River near Shellmouth Manitoba.  The lake which formed behind this dam is 30 miles long and has a surface area of 15,000 acres.

The dam was originally built as a flood control measure but during the last 10 years a high quality walleye fishery has developed.  Lake of the Prairies is now considered to be the second largest sport fishery in Manitoba.

The walleye harvest from the lake has been very high.  A creel census carries out by DNR in 1984 estimated that 120,000 pounds of walleye (8lbs /acre) were removed from the lake between May and October that year.  This is about five times higher than the provincial average.

To insure a this high quality fishing continues for years to come a "SLOT LIMIT: for walleye is in effect as of May 13, 1989.  The regulation states that all walleye between 45 and 70 cm (18 to 28 inches) must be released.  Walleye smaller than 45 cm or larger than 70 cm can be kept, subject to the daily limit restriction.  The walleye under 45 cm are usually under two pounds and make a great eating size.  Walleye over 70 cm are usually over 8 pounds and are Master Angler fish. Barbless hooks are also mandatory.

The purpose of the slot limit is to protect the population of mature, female walleyes which are necessary for reproduction.  It would be very expensive to try to stock as many walleye fry as these mature fish are now producing naturally.   Large walleye are also effective predators and keep rough fish populations under control.

Please handle fish very carefully when you release them. 
DO NOT touch the eyes or underneath the gill covers 
DO NOT drag the fish on the ground. 
DO NOT attempt to remove the hook if it has been swallowed, rather, cut the line.
Thank you for your co-operation.