For the second time in the last decade I have been asked to play a special part in one of Minnesota’s biggest holidays. I will be fishing with Lt. Gov Prettner Solon as a host in the 2014 Governor's Fishing opener hosted by Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake. This year will mark the 67th year of its occurrence.
Lt. Gov Prettner Solon buying her license back in 2012 doing her part to support and help kick off one of Minnesota’s biggest industries, the tourism season. Make sure you have yours prior to opener. Photo Credit to https://mn.gov/governor/blog/?month=2012-04
The Governor’s Fishing Opener is a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was organized to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and now it serves as a kick-off celebration to the state’s summer tourism season. Fishing accounts for a large part of the state’s tourism economy. The sport brings in $11.3 billion every year or about $31 million each day.
The Leisure Outdoor Adventures guide team has volunteered to host media personalities to help spread the passion of hook, line and sinker through events that occur over a 12 hour period on this special day. Being a Brainerd based guide service we look forward to sharing our skill and equipment with the rest of the world in hopes of showcasing the wonderful resources here in the lakes area. Fishing is a very important part of summer Tourism and we are grateful to be able to promote it. Combined, our group has fished over 40 years in the area and Gull lake has seen the brunt of that action.
In 2008 Gov Tim Pawlenty came to the lakes area fished out of Breezy Point Resort on Pelican lake. On this occasion, Senator Norm Coleman and I were able to share a boat for part of the day. What an amazing experience that was. Norm was definitely into it. He brought his own tackle and pole that he had used for years before on opener. “Good Luck” had always graced him with his secret weapon. On this day, it didn't let him down either. After a few hours of catching everything but Willy the Walleye, Norm reached deep into his bag of tricks and found the perfect colored float / spinner combo. (HONESTLY HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT WAS). With a less than lively hunk of meat (dead shiner minnow) Norm quickly set the hook on a nice healthy 19 inch walleye. A instant story for me, and a great way to kick of the fishing season.
I am a believer in Fish Tales and Memories. It’s why our fishing opener is such a sacred occurrence. Every time you are on the water there is a story to be shared and one to be created. As a guide, we are very fortunate to be able to be part of many. SO what is in store for Lt Gov Prettner Solon? My guess is we will have quite a few stories and a few catches as well. In my experience the XX chromosomes share an unfair advantage over fisherman with a Y. Since my first date with my wife (Maggie), every time I share a boat with the ladies, I spend a lot more time netting fish then catching them. I have a theory that by nature, the ladies are much more patient and less fidgety. During the cold water period that surrounds opener, this is a great tip. A lot of fish will be lethargic and not necessarily interested in the fast motion presentations with a ton of action. Perhaps this year I will spend a little extra time getting in touch with my feminine side or it could be a lopsided affair for this fishing guide in this experience with our Lady Lt Governor. But as a gracious fishing guide, I will gladly bow out to the Lt Gov.
For more information on all the events related to this event and to read the official press release go to: http://www.explorebrainerdlakes.com/
On behalf of the entire Leisure Outdoor Adventures guide team we would like to wish everyone a safe 2014 fishing season and a BIG thank you to all of our participating sponsors that allow us to participate in these kinds of opportunities.
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Tight Lines everyone!
Toby Kvalevog
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