ST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz today announced that Ortonville will host the 2025 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.

“I am excited that the community of Ortonville will host the 2025 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said Governor Walz. “The pheasant hunting opener celebrates our beautiful public lands and outdoor recreation, and Ortonville offers an excellent location for this time-honored tradition.”

The Big Stone Lake Area Chamber of Commerce applied on behalf of the community to host the 2025 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. Ortonville was then selected through a process that considered available hunting land, travel and tourism opportunities and community support.

“We are excited to host the 2025 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said Artie Arndt, Ortonville Chamber of Commerce VP/Tourism director. “Ortonville, Big Stone County, and its area sporting and wildlife organizations have a powerful impact, and we are looking forward to showing off the rich landscapes, welcoming community, and ample outdoor recreation opportunities. With over 25,000 acres of public hunting land, 12,000 acres of amazing fishing and a beautiful 18-hole golf course, the Ortonville area is one of the state’s best areas to live, work and play.”

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 boasts exceptional fishing and hunting within the county. Ortonville has a population of 2,021 and is the Big Stone County seat.

“Ortonville will be a fantastic place to host the 2025 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “In addition to great hunting opportunities, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities at Big Stone Lake State Park or any one of the nearly two dozen Wildlife Management Areas nearby. For these reasons and more, we look forward to working with the city of Ortonville as we plan for next year’s big event!”

The 2025 event, scheduled for Oct. 10-11, will be the 13th annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota will assist local partners in planning the event.

Initiated by Gov. Mark Dayton in 2011, the event has been hosted by eight different communities, including Montevideo (2011 and 2016), Marshall (2012 and 2017), Madelia (2013), Worthington (2014 and 2022), Mankato (2015), Luverne (2018), Austin (2019), Owatonna (2023), and Sleepy Eye (2024).