Lake City Plays Host to 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener

(KNSI) — The 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener is set for Lake City.

Lake City, known as the birthplace of waterskiing, is a charming town nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, where it widens to create Lake Pepin. Lake Pepin is home to 85 species of fish, including prized game fish like walleye, pike, sauger, and white bass.

The opener celebration has been going on since 1948 and was designed not just as a kickoff to the walleye season but also as a promotion of the state’s rich fishing tradition and destination as a summer tourism hotspot.

Ed Hoffman of Visit Lake City said being chosen is an honor and that the city is “looking forward to the opportunity to showcase one of the Midwest’s most scenic natural playgrounds and premier angling destinations, Lake Pepin.”

To the north of town is Frontenac State Park, with abundant bird watching opportunities and sweeping river valley views. The area is also home to some of the premiere golf courses in the state, including Mississippi National, Mount Frontenac, and Lake Pepin Golf Course, and right in Lake City is The Jewel Golf Club, designed by none other than famed golf champion himself, Hale Irwin. Irwin holds the record for winning 45 Champions events, collected 20 wins on the PGA circuit, and is a three-time U.S. Open champion.

The Minnesota walleye fishing season starts for resident anglers on May 11th.

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