The fishing season openers are highly anticipated events that signal the unofficial start of summer and Mother’s Day for many “Land of 10,000 Lakes” anglers. While many consider it the walleye opener, it also includes the season’s opening for several other popular species.
The general Minnesota fishing opener for walleye, northern pike, and bass is Saturday, May 10, 2025. About half a million people will be fishing on Saturday, May 10, Minnesota’s opening day.
The fishing season opener on Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior is staggered depending on the species and location.
The stream trout opener, Brook, Brown, Rainbow, and Splake, is this Saturday, April 12. Be aware of posted boundaries on Lake Superior tributaries, which generally correspond to areas accessible to migratory trout and salmon. These boundaries and fish sanctuary areas are marked with signs.
The season for Muskellunge, commonly called Muskie, opens on Saturday, June 7, 2025. The DNR website describes Muskie as “the fish of 10,000 casts.” It continues, “Minnesota’s muskellunge can grow to 50 pounds or larger. An apex predator, the muskellunge is storied for its surprising strikes at the side of the boat and powerful line-pulling runs.”
The Minnesota fishing opener is a significant event that draws hundreds of thousands of anglers to the state’s lakes and rivers, contributing to the state’s tourism and outdoor recreation industries.
According to a survey conducted by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFS) for the Minnesota DNR, 1.7 million fisherfolk wetted a line in Minnesota in 2022. Minnesota residents constituted 1.2 million, while 508,000 were non-residents.
The economic impact of fishing is substantial. In 2022, anglers spent a staggering $5.9 billion on fishing-related expenses, according to the USFWS survey. The average annual expenditure per angler in Minnesota was $3,600, supporting 28,000 jobs. This significant contribution to the state’s economy underscores the value and importance of the fishing community.
This year, the 77th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will be held in Crosslake on May 9 and 10. This tradition promotes Minnesota’s recreational opportunities and tourism and shows the economic power of sport fishing. This is the first time the Governor’s Fishing Opener will be held in the Crosslake area, and it provides a platform to showcase the area’s natural beauty, diversity of fish species, and hospitality. The city of Crosslake is a vital part of Minnesota’s storied resort community.
The DNR reports that the survey led by the USFWS shows a quarter of Minnesota residents aged 16 and older went fishing in 2022. An estimated 38% of male and 14% of female Minnesota residents fished in 2022. In a survey of Minnesotans who did not possess a fishing license in 2022, more than a third expressed interest in fishing in Minnesota. According to the study, the most frequently reported barrier to fishing is a lack of friends and family with whom to fish.
The DNR counts 162 species of fish in Minnesota waters.
Be aware of new fishing regulations this season. These include new daily and possession limits for American eel, yellow bass, whitefish, cisco, and burbot. It’s essential to consult the latest regulations from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for complete and up-to-date information on seasons, limits, and other rules.
Remember, a valid Minnesota fishing license is a must for residents aged 16 to 89 and most non-residents. These licenses, effective from March 1st to the last day of February of the following year, ensure that you’re fishing within the law. If you’re fishing for trout or salmon in Minnesota waters of Lake Superior, you’ll also need a trout stamp unless an exemption applies.
The purchase price of every fishing license goes into the Game and Fish Fund. This dedicated account can only be used for fish, wildlife, law enforcement, and certain other outdoor-related activities.
Clear out winter cobwebs and get out for North Shore fishing.
