Minnesota Fishing Opener 2025: How to Catch a Walleye (And Eat It)
- True North
- Apr 29
- 6 min read
Updated: May 9
In this article:
If you’re looking for a time when Minnesotans lose their collective minds (in the best possible way), the 2025 Minnesota Fishing Opener is it. Each May, thousands flock to lakes, rivers, and streams across the state to cast their lines for walleye, northern pike, trout, and more. True North sits in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area, close to some of the best fishing lakes in the state, like Gull Lake or Mille Lacs Lake, often ranked near the top for walleye and home to the town of Garrison, the “Walleye Capital of the World.”
This isn’t just about fishing—it's about tradition, bragging rights, and the unofficial kickoff to the summer tourism season. Whether you're a seasoned angler or someone who just likes an excuse to buy a bunch of gear, this guide will walk you through what the Minnesota Fishing Opener is all about, how to catch a walleye, and most importantly—how to eat it like a local.
The Opener: Why Minnesotans Treat It Like a National Holiday
The fishing opener in Minnesota is not just a day—it’s an event. Every year, over half a million anglers cast their first lines into open water, celebrating the start of the Minnesota fishing season. Some towns, like Crosslake, basically roll out the red carpet for fishing families, with parades, live music, and enough minnows sold to flood a small suburb.
The tradition of the Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener started back in 1948, and 2025 will mark the 77th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener. This event highlights not only the thrill of the catch but the boost to outdoor recreation opportunities and summer tourism season. It’s a big deal—Explore Minnesota works with the Governor’s office to select a host city (this year it’s right here in the Brainerd Lakes Area town of Crosslake) and promote everything from state parks to wildlife management areas to local bait shops selling everything from cisco to tullibee.
People look forward to fishing and experiencing Minnesota’s endless blue waters for a lot of reasons: nostalgia, family tradition, the simple love of being outdoors, and, of course, the hope of catching that trophy walleye that gets talked about for years. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) also gets in on the action, updating fishing regulations, seasons and limits, and ensuring the opener stays sustainable for generations to come. (Pro tip: Check the Minnesota DNR website before you hit the water.)
How to Catch A Walleye During the 2025 Minnesota Fishing Opener
Catching a walleye during the 2025 Minnesota fishing opener isn’t just about luck—it’s about playing it smart. Here's how you can up your odds of landing the state fish without throwing your rod into Lake Mille Lacs in frustration.
First things first: gear up right. You’ll want a medium-light spinning rod, about six to seven feet long, and a reel spooled with 6-10 lb test line. Walleyes love live bait—minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers are your go-to choices. Jigging near drop-offs or trolling with a crankbait at low speeds gives you a real shot at filling your limit.
Now, let’s talk fish behavior: walleyes are sneaky. They like low-light conditions, which is why early morning and twilight are prime time. They'll be lurking near rocky points, submerged humps, and weed lines. Open water fishing right after ice fishing season can be a little tricky because the fish are adjusting, but if you find that magic depth—usually between 10-20 feet—you’re in business.
Crowd behaviors are just as important to watch. If you see 20 boats stacked up around one underwater point...well, that’s a pretty good hint. But remember: don't be "that guy" who trolls five feet from someone's bow. Respect the space, and the fishing gods might reward you.
Also: double-check your fishing license. Minnesota is not playing around when it comes to your license. You need one to legally fish, and it helps support habitat restoration, stocking programs, and the Minnesota DNR’s work keeping lakes full of future catches.
A few bonus things to look out for during the fishing season:
Fishing regulations change yearly. The 2025 possession limit for walleye might differ from 2024.
Certain lakes might have special size restrictions—know them.
If you hook a northern pike or a smallmouth bass by accident, check if you can keep it.
Rough fish like carp and suckers? Different rules apply—again, know before you go.
And if you want to avoid crowds entirely? Head to some of the quieter spots around the Brainerd Lakes Area. Both the Gull Lake Chain and the Whitefish Chain of Lakes are big enough to find your own secret honey hole, but small enough that you won't feel like you're at a boat show.
How to Eat Your Walleye Like a Local (Including Where in Brainerd or Nisswa)
Alright, you bagged your walleye. Now what? Time to celebrate the only way that makes sense: eating it.
At home, the classic is the walleye shore lunch:
Flour dredge it, salt and pepper it, and fry it in butter or oil until golden brown. Simple. Perfect.
Want to get fancy? Try a panko-crusted walleye fillet or blacken it with a Cajun rub.
Feeling healthy-ish? Grill it with a bit of lemon and dill.
If you don’t feel like cleaning your own fish (or if you’re suddenly aware you have zero kitchen skills), there many different and delicious ways to eat walleye all around True North, Nisswa and the Brainerd Lakes Area.
Here are four of our favorites :
The Walleye Plate (Main Street Ale House) Herb seasoned panko encrusted fillet, wild rice pilaf with onion, celery, soy, mushrooms, grilled asparagus, velouté sauce
Minnesota Sushi (Northwoods Pub)
Smoked Walleye, Sushi Rice, Nori, Cream Cheese, Eel Sauce, Avocado, Sriracha Mayo, Fried Onions, Seaweed Salad, Tempura-battered and Deep-fried
Classic Sandwich (Ernies on Gull)
Lightly breaded walleye fillet, citrus tartar, arugula, tomato
Broiled Walleye (Notch 8)
Hazelnut Broiled Walleye Butternut Squash Bisque, Sage & Golden Raisin Beurre Noisette Mushroom Marsala Risotto’
And hey, if you don't catch one? No shame. Hit up one of these local spots raise a glass to the Minnesota Fishing Opener 2025, and start scheming for next year. That's the real angle, after all.
FAQ About the 2025 Minnesota Fishing Opener
What is the history behind the Governor's Fishing Opener event?
The Governor's Fishing Opener event started in 1948 as a way to celebrate and promote Minnesota's fishing opportunities and vibrant tourism industry. The first time the Governor's Fishing Opener took place, it set the tone for what has become a beloved tradition. Every year since, the time the Governor's Fishing Opener has kicked off the open season for walleye, northern pike, and more, bringing communities together and drawing attention to outdoor recreation across the state of Minnesota.
What are the season dates for the 2025 Minnesota Fishing Opener?
The 2025 Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener falls on May 10, which marks the official start of the open season for key species like walleye and northern pike. Remember, different fish species have varying season dates, especially for specialty fishing like stream trout and muskie fishing. Always check the Minnesota DNR guidelines before you cast your line to stay within the rules.
What do I need to know about fishing regulations for different fish species?
Minnesota's fishing regulations are detailed but crucial for protecting the state's natural resources. Stream trout, for example, often have stricter size and possession rules compared to largemouth bass or northern pike. Lake Superior fishing has its own specific guidelines as well, with unique rules for species like cisco and whitefish. Be sure to double-check the Minnesota DNR website or grab a guide at your local bait shop.
How can I make the most of my fishing trip this year?
Besides targeting walleye during the Minnesota Fishing Opener, consider exploring less crowded spots for excellent fishing. Places like the Whitefish Chain of Lakes or sections of Lake Superior can offer incredible experiences. Also, don't overlook smaller bodies of water within state recreation areas for species like stream trout or largemouth bass. Explore Minnesota recommends checking out local guides and charters to maximize your day.
Is Memorial Day weekend a good time for fishing in Minnesota?
Absolutely! While the Minnesota Fishing Opener kicks off the open season, Memorial Day weekend often brings some of the best fishing of the year. Water temperatures are ideal for a variety of species, and many anglers report great success with both walleye and stream trout during this period. It's a fantastic way to officially ring in summer in MN.
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