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Minnesota 09 - Governor's Fishing Opener

White Bear Lake Announced as the Site of the 61st Annual Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener

May 11, 2008 (St. Paul, MN) - Governor Tim Pawlenty announced today that White Bear Lake will be the site of 2009 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener. The sixty-first annual kickoff of the fishing season will be held May 8 & 9. Governor Pawlenty made the announcement at this year’s event at Breezy Point.

White Bear Lake, often called the "first" Minnesota resort community, is a popular fishing destination for Minnesota’s most sought-after fish, the walleye. The lake is also known for its abundant supply of Northern Pike, Bluegill, Rock Bass, Yellow Perch, Pumpkinseed Sunfish, and Black Crappie.

The community of White Bear Lake is planning numerous activities for the 2009 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener, including a community picnic with live music, historic tours, a children’s fishing clinic, and a golf outing.

White Bear Lake covers 2,416 acres with a maximum depth of 83 feet. The crystal clear water allows boaters and anglers to easily see to a depth of more than 15 feet. White Bear Lake is conveniently located 12 miles northeast of St. Paul along the I-694 and I-35E corridor.

"White Bear Lake is a great location for the Opener because it highlights the many water resources that are available in and around the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area," said John Edman, director of Explore Minnesota Tourism, the state agency that coordinates the event. "This event is about fishing, but, it is also highlights our host community and the start of our summer travel season."

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. It provides the host community with an opportunity to highlight local fishing and other recreational activities, attractions and other points of interest.

More Information

Watch for updates this fall about the 2009 Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener!

For more information or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities please contact (651) 653-5122 or email

To volunteer call 651-653-5122 or email

2009 Minnesota GFO Executive Committee
Bill Foussard – Fishing Opener Chair
Sara Hanson – Vice Chair & Event Coordinator
Reed Vanderzee – Sponsorship Chair
Lisa Beecroft – Media & Publicity Chair
Pat McFarlane – Fishing Host Chair
Bill Rust – Community Picnic Chair
Tina Volpe – Volunteer Chair
Dave Zachor – Treasurer

Kim Johnson – Secretary
Carol McFarlane – Community Liaison

Carol Altepeter - GFO Event Coordinator
                           Explore Minnesota Tourism,
                           Northcentral/West Region Manager

422 James Street, Suite One
Brainerd, MN 56401

Local Phone: 218-828-2334
Toll Free: 888-629-6466
Fax: 218-828-2384

Official MN Governor's Fishing Opener website
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