Question: When did the tradition of the Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener begin?

Answer: The fishing opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948, according to Explore Minnesota, the state’s tourism promotion office. It is designed to improve the state’s economy through the development and promotion of the state’s recreational opportunities, especially fishing.

Each year, the event is hosted by the governor, Explore Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and a new host community.

In the last 10 years, the Governor’s Fishing Opener has been in the following locations:

• 2019: Albert Lea area lakes

• 2018: Willmar lakes area

• 2017: Greater St. Cloud area

• 2016: Big Sandy Lake, McGregor

• 2015: Lake Vermilion area

• 2014: Brainerd lakes area

• 2013: Park Rapids

• 2012: Waconia

• 2011: Grand Rapids

• 2010: Lake Kabetogama

• 2009: White Bear Lake

 

Question: How many people across the state are expected to fish on the fishing opener?

Answer: An estimated 500,000.

 

Question: Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes. How many lakes does the state actually have?

Answer: According to Explore Minnesota, Minnesota has 11,842 lakes; 69,000 miles of rivers and streams and more shoreline than California, Florida and Hawaii combined.

 

“You Ask, We Answer” is a weekly column dedicated to answering questions submitted by you, the readers. We will answer two to three questions per week. Have a question you want to submit? Email Managing Editor Sarah Stultz at sarah.stultz@albertleatribune.com or send her a letter at 808 W. Front St. Label as “Questions of the week.”