The annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener starts Friday in Ortonville Minnesota.
Governor Tim Walz and Sarah Stromen, the Commissioner with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, are all set to take part in the 13th annual event, having purchased their licenses together.
"There's a lot of nostalgia goes with this, a lot of excitement," said Walz. "So many of us grew up around it. When you finally get the chance, you're old enough to go out with your parents, your uncles, you know, your cousins."
The two-day celebratory event will kick off the hunting season that runs through January 4.
Ortonville is located along the western border of the state almost midway between the north and south boundaries - and about 190 miles west of the Twin Cities. The community is known for scenic landscapes and exceptional fishing and hunting within the county.
"I am hearing really good things about the outlook this year," Stromen added. "Our annual pheasant survey showed that pheasants are up over last year, so should be birds out there for people to see and hopefully harvest. We're actually up about 20% over the 10 year average."
The two-day celebratory event will kick off the hunting season that runs through January 4.
Pheasant stamps and small game licenses are required to take part in the hunting season. Get more information here.
