Posted May 11, 2008 3:41 pm
White Bear Lake Announced as Site of 61st Annual Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener
Contact: Curt Johnson
Explore Minnesota Tourism
651-757-1851
curt.johnson@state.mn.us
Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener
ST. PAUL, MN, May 11, 2008 – Governor Tim Pawlenty announced today that White Bear Lake will be the site of 2009 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener. The sixty-first annual kickoff of the fishing season will be held May 8 & 9. Governor Pawlenty made the announcement at this year’s event at Breezy Point.
White Bear Lake, often called the “first” Minnesota resort community, is a popular fishing destination for Minnesota’s most sought-after fish, the walleye. The lake is also known for its abundant supply of Northern Pike, Bluegill, Rock Bass, Yellow Perch, Pumpkinseed Sunfish, and Black Crappie.
The community of White Bear Lake is planning numerous activities for the 2009 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener, including a community picnic with live music, historic tours, a children’s fishing clinic, and a golf outing.
White Bear Lake covers 2,416 acres with a maximum depth of 83 feet. The crystal clear water allows boaters and anglers to easily see to a depth of more than 15 feet. White Bear Lake is conveniently located 12 miles northeast of St. Paul along the I-694 and I-35E corridor.
“White Bear Lake is a great location for the Opener because it highlights the many water resources that are available in and around the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area,” said John Edman, director of Explore Minnesota Tourism, the state agency that coordinates the event. “This event is about fishing, but, it is also highlights our host community and the start of our summer travel season.”
This is the first time the event has been held in the Metro region.
The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry. It provides the host community with an opportunity to highlight local fishing and other recreational activities, attractions and other points of interest.
For more information on the Governor’s Fishing Opener Event contact:
Carol Altepeter, Event Coordinator
Email: carol.altepeter@state.mn.us