[ALBERT LEA, MN] - Minnesota Governor Tim Walz kicked off the Minnesota fishing opener today at Albert Lea’s Fountain Lake. This is Governor Walz’s first time hosting the official Governor’s Fishing Opener and the first time a Governor has hosted the annual event in Albert Lea.

“We had a perfect day here in Albert Lea and could not have picked a better place to kick off the fishing season in Minnesota,” said Governor Walz. “Lt. Governor Flanagan may have caught more fish than me, but I plan to best her at the Pheasant Opener in Austin this fall. Thank you to all the folks in Albert Lea who joined us on the lake and graciously hosted anglers from across the state this weekend.”

Joining the Governor in his boat were Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka, House Speaker Melissa Hortman, Senate Minority Leader Tom Bakk, and House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt. 

Find more photos from the Governor's Fishing Opener weekend here.