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Governor Walz Announces 2024 Governor’s Fishing Opener to be Held in Lake City

October 31, 2023

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Lake City will host the 76th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener on May 10-11, 2024. Explore Minnesota coordinates each year with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the host committee to put on the event celebrating Minnesota’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities.

“I am incredibly excited to bring the longtime tradition of the Governor’s Fishing Opener to Lake City,” said Governor Tim Walz. “This region is known for its phenomenal fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. I look forward to celebrating the unique tourism and outdoor opportunities that Lake City has to offer.”

Lake City, nestled on the shores of Lake Pepin, stands as a testament to the outstanding angling experiences available in Minnesota. With 85 different species of fish populating the waters, Lake Pepin has earned its reputation as a sport fishing destination within the state. Anglers from all over travel to this scenic area, known for its abundant walleye, sauger, pike, perch, and white bass populations. This event underscores Lake City’s standing as one of the best places in the Midwest for fishing enthusiasts.

“I am thrilled to help welcome anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike to Lake Pepin for the 2024 Governor’s Fishing Opener in Lake City,” said Lauren Bennett McGinty, director of Explore Minnesota. “We will celebrate Minnesota’s rich angling heritage and how fishing tourism shapes our state’s modern identity. We are confident that this event will not only provide a memorable experience but will inspire many to explore the diverse attractions our state has to offer and support local businesses in communities across Minnesota in all four seasons. Together with the Lake City community, we hope to share Minnesota’s unparalleled hospitality and boundless opportunities for adventure.”

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, and in recent years has served as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season.

“I am very excited that we will be celebrating the 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in Lake City,” said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River offer a tremendous diversity of quality fishing opportunities, including being a popular destination for anglers seeking our state fish, the walleye. I look forward to experiencing these angling opportunities as well as all the other outdoor experiences the Lake City area offers.”

“It is an honor to have Lake City chosen to host Governor Walz and this quintessential Minnesota spring tradition,” said Ed Hoffman of Visit Lake City. “We look forward to the opportunity to showcase one of the Midwest’s most scenic natural playgrounds and premier angling destinations, Lake Pepin.”

The event provides a platform to showcase the city’s natural beauty, Lake Pepin’s diversity of fish species, and the hospitality of its residents.

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