Fishing Treaty Talks Delayed

(AP) Tribal leaders are backing off on pursuing hunting, fishing and gathering rights in northern Minnesota, for now.

The Chairman of the Leech Lake Band says any meetings with state officials would be premature. Arthur LaRose says he wants to develop a common approach with the White Earth Chippewa Band over affirming rights that the bands believe were reserved in an 1855 treaty.

Some Leech Lake Band officials said some members of the two bands would be fishing illegally on Lake Bemidji the day before the walleye opener in may.
However, tribal leaders are urging no protest, and say they are looking for a diplomatic solution.