Minnesota Walleye Fishing Opener 2026

It's the most anticipated day on the Minnesota fishing calendar — and the Brainerd Lakes Area is one of the best places in the state to celebrate it. The 2026 Minnesota Walleye Fishing Opener kicks off on May 9, and with hundreds of lakes, top-tier resorts, and a community that lives for this weekend, the Lakes Area is ready. Whether you've been planning your trip since ice-out or you're throwing some gear in the truck on a whim, there's no better backdrop for the opener than right here. Check the MN DNR website for regulations and lake-specific updates.