Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan Celebrate 2022 Governor's Fishing Opener

Statement

This weekend, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the Governor's Fishing Opener on Lake Winnibigoshish, where Governor Walz hooked a 21-inch walleye. The weekend included Radio Row in the Chippewa National Forest, visits to highlight the local outdoor and hospitality industries, a community celebration, a Launch Ceremony, and a walleye shore lunch.

"There's nothing better than early summer days on the lake in Minnesota -- especially when the fish are biting," said Governor Walz. "We're proud of our state's abundant natural resources and the businesses that make up our strong outdoor economy. I hope this year's Opener encourages people to get out and explore new areas of the state and take part in the wonderful tradition of fishing."

"While I graciously conceded victory in our annual fishing competition to Governor Walz, it was a joy to be out on the lake with good friends and still catch some fish," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "Fishing has been deeply embedded in the culture and traditions of this area for generations. Miigwech to the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and community members near Lake Winnibigoshish for welcoming us with open arms as we celebrate the best of Minnesota this weekend."

Schedule of Events

On Friday morning , Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan hosted Radio Row and talked with reporters from around the state. Later, they stopped by three local businesses: Norway Beach Resort, Reeds Family Outdoor Outfitters, and the Leech Lake Market, to highlight the importance of Minnesota's vibrant hospitality and retail industries. On Friday evening, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan attended a Fishing Opener community celebration hosted by the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe to meet with community and industry leaders from across the region.

On Saturday morning , May 14, 2022, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan fished on Lake Winnibigoshish, attended a send-off ceremony on East Seelye Bay, and returned for a shore lunch and celebration on East Seelye Bay. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor fished with Leech Lake Chairman Faron Jackson, Sr. and guides Tom Neustrom and Rory Haaland.

This weekend follows the first ever State of Minnesota Fishing Summit hosted by MN-FISH, where industry leaders discussed the future of fishing. Governor Walz committed to prioritizing state investments in fishing infrastructure, including hatcheries and public water access.

The Governor's Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota's $2.4 billion fishing industry, and in recent years, it has served as an iconic kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Travel and tourism have traditionally generated approximately $16 billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually.

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