HAYWARD, Wis. – The Northwest Wisconsin ITBEC Tourism Committee (Travel Northwest Wisconsin), in partnership with the Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau, is proud to announce that Hayward, Wisconsin has been selected as the host community for the 2026 Wisconsin Governor’s Fishing Opener. The event will take place May 1–2, 2026 on beautiful Nelson Lake in Sawyer County.
Nelson Lake spans 2,716 acres and is home to a wide variety of fish species, including panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye—making it an ideal destination for anglers of all ages and abilities.
The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a Wisconsin tradition since 1966, when Governor Warren Knowles, an avid angler, established the event to highlight the state’s unmatched fishing opportunities, promote natural resource conservation, and support tourism across northern Wisconsin. Each year, the event rotates to a new community in Northwest Wisconsin, bringing media attention, visitors, and economic benefits to the host area.
In addition to the traditional opener festivities, the 2026 event will feature a Family Fishing Day on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Lake Hayward Beach. This free, family-friendly celebration will invite the public to enjoy fishing activities, hands-on learning, and outdoor fun designed to inspire the next generation of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
“Bringing the 2026 Governor’s Fishing Opener to Nelson Lake is an honor for Sawyer County and the Hayward Lakes area,” said Mindy Simons, Executive Director of the Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau. “This event not only highlights the natural beauty of our region, but also provides an important boost for local businesses, tourism, and our community.”
Travel Northwest Wisconsin is a 12-county tourism marketing group dedicated to promoting the region’s natural beauty, recreation, and communities. The Governor’s Fishing Opener is one of the organization’s signature events, rotating annually throughout Northwest Wisconsin to highlight the diverse fishing waters and resources the region has to offer.
Last Update: Sep 15, 2025 12:14 pm CDT
