Governor's party catches more than 40 fish during 2017 fishing opener

ST. CLOUD, Minn. (KMSP) - During Saturday's 2017 Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener, Minnesota politicians ditched the suits and joined anglers in St. Cloud.

Governor Mark Dayton and his fishing party caught more than 40 fish on the Mississippi River. According to the press release, lifelong anglers Todd Bissett and Josh Hagemeister hosted Gov. Dayton and Lt. Governor Tina Smith during their time on the water.

Gov. Dayton caught a 17.5-inch smallmouth bass during his time on the water. Dayton was joined in his boat by House Speaker Kurdt Daudt and Senate Majority Leader Paul Dazelka. Daudt and Dazelka caught a northern pike and a few smallmouth bass.

The fishing party in total also included House Majority Leader Joyce Peppin, and House Assistance Minority Leader Ilhan Omar. Peppin caught eight fish, including the only walleye of the day. Omar had the most catches total, ending the tour with 13 fish.

Were you at the opener? Upload your pictures to the governor's website here.