The early spring in 2016 had outdoors enthusiasts eager to get into the field or their boats to chase their favorite species throughout Minnesota’s waterways.
The official kickoff for this year occurred May 14th with the 69th annual Governor’s Fishing Opener, held this year at Big Sandy Lake near McGregor in Aitkin County.
Two great Minnesota passions, Vikings football and fishing, have come together in recent years to spread the message about the bountiful recreation options available to young and old alike and to encourage people to try something new out-of-doors.
Home-grown Vikings TE Brian Leonhardt of Spring Lake Park and Bemidji State University didn’t take much convincing to jump at the chance to bait a hook in the annual spring rite.