Governor Walz Announces 2025 Governor’s Fishing Opener to be Held in Crosslake

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the 77th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will take place in Crosslake on May 9-10, 2025. Each year Explore Minnesota works with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and a Minnesota community to plan the event honoring the state’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities.

“I am thrilled to bring the longtime tradition of the Governor’s Fishing Opener to Crosslake,” said Governor Walz. “This region is known for its phenomenal fishing and outdoor recreation. It is also home to an incredible resort community, making Crosslake the perfect place to kick off summer.”

This is the first time the Governor’s Fishing Opener event will be held in the Crosslake area and provides a platform to showcase the area’s natural beauty, diversity of fish species, and hospitality. With more than 15 resorts in the area, the city of Crosslake is an important part of Minnesota’s storied resort community. The state’s network of resorts plays a prominent role in making summers in Minnesota the best in the Midwest, combining generational businesses with distinctive guest experiences and family traditions.

“We’re bringing the Governor’s Fishing Opener north again, and we are excited to celebrate in the Crosslake area,” said Lauren Bennett McGinty, executive director of Explore Minnesota. “Along with excellent fishing and outdoor recreation, this area of Minnesota boasts a strong community of resorts, some dating back almost 100 years. These small businesses have provided unique experiences for visitors to our state for generations and continue to make Minnesota the best place to enjoy summer.”

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 2025 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in Crosslake,” said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “The area offers great variety for anglers, including walleye, northern pike, and large and smallmouth bass, as well as lesser known yet prized native rough fish such as greater redhorse and white sucker. The area also boasts a number of other outdoor recreation opportunities, including three state parks, a state recreation area and a wildlife management area. I look forward to fishing and experiencing all the outdoor opportunities the Crosslake area offers.”

The Crosslake area features dozens of lakes, including the 14 interconnected lakes of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, with 13,500 acres of water, numerous bays and islands, and 119 miles of shoreline. These waters offer excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, skiing, and swimming.