Contact: Curt Johnson
651-297-3488
curt.johnson@state.mn.us

“Walleye Dan” Selected as Governor Pawlenty’s Fishing Host for 2008 Governor’s Fishing Opener

ST. PAUL (April 24, 2008) - “Walleye Dan” Eigen has been selected as Governor Tim Pawlenty’s fishing host for the 2008 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in Breezy Point, Minnesota.

“It gave me the chills and I am completely honored,” Eigen said when notified that he had been selected as the fishing host for the Governor.

Dan has a few ideas that he believes will put fish on the hooks of the Governor and First Lady on Opening day, but doesn’t want to give away his secrets. Dan predicts the Governor and the First Lady will catch fish on opening day.

Dan started fishing with his Dad when he was about five-years old and because of his fascination with the sport, he spent much of his free time fishing. He has always been interested in the outdoors and also trapped and hunted his entire life.

Dan is now a full time, professional fishing guide and the owner/operator of Walleyedan’s Guide Service of Nisswa, Minnesota.. He became a professional fishing guide because of an experience he had when he was about ten-years old when his father hired a guide at a resort in the Brainerd Lakes area. Dan was impressed with the amount of fishing knowledge the man had. Dan later began working at the Quarterdeck Resort on Gull Lake and would quiz the resort guides about fishing techniques and locations and then head out on the lake to try out his new found knowledge. From there, Dan began his fishing guide career.

About the Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener

The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry. In recent years, the Opener has served as a celebration kickoff for the summer tourism season. It provides the community with an opportunity to highlight local fishing and other recreational activities, attractions and other points of interest. For more information, go to www.mngovernorsopener.com.

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