Word out the State Capital this week is not looking good for those who were hoping to get out fishing early.

It appears the idea of moving the fishing opener forward by a week is losing steam at the Legislature. DFL members in our area first floated the idea earlier this month, and it appeared to be gaining momentum. However, the DNR appartently was not in the same boat, saying it could effect harvest levels on some lakes and spawning on others. An informal meeting was held at the capital yesterday to discuss the idea, and the general feeling afterwards was don't look to wet a line until May 12th. Which is when the opener was orginially scheduled for. The proposal is part of a larger fish and game bill that is expected to be debated next week. But if I were you I would keep your plans to go walleye fishing on the 12th.