Park Rapids to Host the 2013 Gov's Fishing Opener

Next year’s annual Governor’s Fishing Opener, May 10-11, 2013, will be held in the Park Rapids Lakes Area.  

Park Rapids area is home to Itasca State Park, the Heartland Trail, Lake Country Scenic Byway, and the Chippewa National Forest. 

The 2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener will be hosted locally by the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Dennis Mackedanz will chair the committee of volunteers to plan the event. Mackendaz says, "Our excellent local fishing, recreational activities, attractions and points of interest are a perfect fit for the 2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener.”

The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and in recent years, it has served as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Travel and tourism generate $11.3 billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually.