Governor’s Fishing Opener 2020 an Opportunity to Fish Locally This Summer

The Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will be held in Otter Tail County in May 2020 so why not head out to a local lake now and scout your prime fishing holes. With 1,048 lakes to fish, start looking for your lucky fishing spot this summer. Otter Tail County has ample opportunities for individuals and families to fish. You otter fish here!

Spending time on the lakes of Otter Tail County is a tradition for many people in Minnesota. Anglers return to the area each year to spend time at local resorts and fish their favorite lakes. Recently, high schools have added fishing leagues to their lineup of extracurricular activities. The West Central Region’s Heart O’ Lakes Fishing League has 22 teams and over 450 anglers.  Erik Osberg, Governor’s Fishing Opener Committee Chair and Wadena High School Fishing Team coach sees the growth in youth participation in angling and hopes to showcase the experiences and skills of these young anglers during the Governor’s Fishing Opener in 2020. “Fishing is a great way to get kids outdoors. We are exploring ways for high school fishing teams to share their passion with others.”

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has implemented the ‘I Can Fish!’ program to provide an introduction or refresher experience to angling. Hands-on instruction and equipment are provided at participating state parks. A fishing clinic for kids is planned in the line-up of events at the Governor’s Fishing Opener in 2020. Local high school fishing league anglers will be instructing youth at the fishing clinic sharing their love of fishing.

Otter Tail Lake, the body of water where Governor Walz and other state leaders are slated to fish, is the largest lake in the County with over 14,000 acres. Known for its excellent walleye fishing it also boasts of lake sturgeon and is considered a pan fish paradise for crappie and sunfish. Fishing on any lake in Otter Tail County is encouraged during the Governor’s Fishing Opener as all anglers are invited to participate in the event. Look for upcoming details as to how anglers can participate in the county-wide fishing tournament.

Contact:

Erik Osberg, GFO Committee Chair
Rural Rebound Initiative Coordinator
Otter Tail County

218-770-7848