2012 walleye opener – Saturday, May 12.

What is the fishing opener?

Minnesota anglers consider the fishing opener -- when walleye, northern pike, and sauger become legal game on the state's inland waters -- one of the defining moments of their year.

Did you know?

Minnesota's general fishing opener is the Saturday two weeks before Memorial Day weekend.

Why? Three main reasons:

1. It allows most walleyes to spawn before being caught by anglers
2. It ensures that the opener is on a weekend, when most anglers can fish
3. This date ensures two full weekends for anglers and businesses before the Memorial Day weekend.

Tacklebox of angler "must haves"...

• Print off your copy of the 2012 Fishing Regulations
• Get your Fishing License from the 24/7 online license sales site
• Get info about your lake with the DNR's LakeFinder tool or take it offline with the LakeFinder mobile app.
• Check out Minnesota's top Walleye Lakes
• MNDOT's traveler information - check the roads before you head out

Boatload of angler "must reads" ...

• In Minnesota it is illegal to transport prohibited invasive species. Prevent the transport of harmful invasive species - help stop aquatic hitchhikers.
• Read up on what the DNR's doing for Walleye Management
• DNR's Fishing News
• Explore Minnesota Fishing Report
• Regional Fishing Outlooks - information compiled by area fisheries managers
• The Minnesota Climatology Working Group's Fishing Opener Weather Forecast
• Learn about becoming a Minnesota Master Angler

And for the new angler...

• How to fish - basics for new anglers
• Common fishing terms - know your bobber from your bait with this list for newbies
• Fish for free - residents can fish without a fishing license in most Minnesota state parks

Angler's don't have to purchase a walleye stamp to land Minnesota's most-popular gamefish, but buying yours today just might help your catch later.