Minnesota State Wire

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Ahead of the fishing opener, Governor Tim Walz on May 3, 2023  participated in the second annual Minnesota Fishing Summit hosted by MN-FISH to discuss strategies to improve fishing throughout Minnesota. Governor Walz was joined by members of the MN-FISH Coalition, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen, and fishing and angler advocates.

“On May 3, 2023, we discussed the future of fishing in Minnesota with some of our state’s most passionate and talented anglers. You can feel the excitement growing for the state’s unofficial kick off to summer,” said Governor Walz. “With meaningful investments in conservation and outdoor recreation, we can preserve this outstanding tradition and make the case to others across the country that we have a lot to offer here in Minnesota – including some world-class fishing.”

This event comes after Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan toured a state fish hatchery in St. Paul earlier this week to discuss needed investments in fish hatcheries, public water accesses, and outdoor recreation. The One Minnesota budget’s Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences) proposal would make a $118 million General Fund investment, which would combine with additional funds in the Governor’s bonding proposal, to ensure all Minnesotans are able to take part in Minnesota’s outdoor traditions.

Minnesotans will flock to lakes and rivers for the opening of the walleye, sauger, and northern pike season on Saturday, May 13, and the tradition will be celebrated in many ways. The 2023 Governor’s Fishing Opener will be held in the greater Mankato area Thursday, May 11, through Saturday, May 13. It’s also Take a Mom Fishing Weekend (May 13-14), when Minnesota moms can fish for free without a license and participate in the virtual Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge. You can find out more about how to participate in the challenge and information about fishing opportunities across Minnesota on the DNR website.

The MN-FISH Coalition is a grassroots sportfishing, marine, and angler advocacy network that gives anglers a legislative voice and works to achieve public policies to restore, protect, and enhance sportfishing for the present and future generations to enjoy.

Original source can be found here.