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Governor Wendell Anderson catches a big one!
Governor Wendell Anderson catches a big one!

1980-Governor Al Quie shows off his catch!
1980-Governor Al Quie shows off his catch!

1985-Governor Rudy Perpich is credited with changing the name of the event to the current Governor's Fishing Opener
1985-Governor Rudy Perpich is credited with changing the name of the event to the current Governor's Fishing Opener

1998-50th Anniversary of the Governor's Fishing Opener. Governor Arne Carlson catches a Mississippi River sauger as his first offical catch of his 8 year term.
1998-50th Anniversary of the Governor's Fishing Opener. Governor Arne Carlson catches a Mississippi River sauger as his first offical catch of his 8 year term.

2001-Governor Jesse Ventura brought excitement and many walleye catches to his term.
2001-Governor Jesse Ventura brought excitement and many walleye catches to his term.

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Quick Links
  • Why does Minnesota hold a Governor's Fishing Opener each year?
  • How many years has the Opener been held?
  • Who can attend?
  • How can a community host the Governor's Fishing Opener Event?
  • What communities have hosted this event?

    • Why does Minnesota hold a Governor's Fishing Opener each year?
    Ready for fishing at the Opener 2005The Governor's Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. It was designed to improve Minnesota's economy through the development and promotion of the state's recreational opportunities, especially fishing. The first Opener was a cooperative promotion between the state's resort industry, media, and public officials. Today, the emphasis is even broader. It celebrates the kick off of the summer tourism season. The special partnership continues today with a promotional focus on a host community as well as recreational opportunities statewide. Fishing is not forgotten, and is clearly still the main promotion of the event.

    How many years has the Opener been held?
    According to our best records, the event started in 1948. The tradition continues with the event at Pequot Lake Breezy Point - 60 years of tradition!

    Who can attend?
    Explore Minnesota Tourism and the host community extend invitations to media representatives to attend the event to increase publicity for the area, fishing and other recreational opportunities. In the past, Minnesota, midwest and international media have attended the event.  This event also serves as the kick off to the summer season. 

    While most activities are for invited guests, the community picnic is open to the general public, and includes a free picnic dinner, entertainment, and a program. Area residents are encouraged to participate in this portion of the event.

    How can a community host the Governor's Fishing Opener Event?
    Proposals for the 2009 event have been received.  To recieive information about hosting the 2010 event, contact Carol Altepeter, Event Coordinator, at 218-828-2334 or 888-629-6466.  Email: carol.altepeter@state.mn.us

    What communities have hosted this event?
    Here is the list of the last 25 years:

    1983 - Ely
    1984 - Onamia
    1985 - Faribault
    1986 - Bemidji
    1987 - Fairmont
    1988 - Detroit Lakes
    1989 - Pequot Lakes/Breezy Point
    1990 - Grand Rapids/Hill City
    1991 - Onamia
    1992 - Alexandria
    1993 - Brainerd area
    1994 - International Falls
    1995 - Willmar
    1996 - Bemidji
    1997 - Fergus Falls
    1998 - Red Wing
    1999 - Grand Rapids
    2000 - Crane Lake
    2001 - Pequot Lakes/Breezy Point
    2002 - International Falls
    2003 - Detroit Lakes
    2004 - Baudette/Lake of the Woods
    2005 - Lake Vermilion

    2006 - International Falls Rainy Lake

    2007 - Leech Lake Walker area

    2008 - Pequot Lakes and Breezy Point-(being planned)