Traditions are rich within the outdoor community. These engrained patterns and behaviors are an important piece of the sport we love. They’re often established as something far more important than the activity itself. 

Take deer camp, for example. Across the Midwest, hunters gather on an annual basis to take part in the occasion. In most instances, it’s about much more than having a deer hanging or venison in the freezer. Rather, it’s the camaraderie, cold drinks, good meals, bad jokes, and more that keep people coming back. 

There are countless other examples of traditions in every facet of the outdoor community. In many instances, such customs are passed down from generation to generation. Others, however, are developed later in life and become tradition simply by being repeated year after year. Regardless of foundation, these traditions are worth saving. 

In the Midwest, the deer hunting opener certainly takes the cake in terms of annual traditions. That being said, you could argue that the fishing opener is a close second. While lines of truck-towed boats, busy boat launches, and plentifully-populated fishing spots may not sound all that appealing, I assure you that it’s something worth experiencing. 

Like other traditions, the fishing opener is about a lot more than fishing. While fishing is the central piece, there’s certainly more to it. Truthfully, it’s about weekends away, getting the band back together, meaningful car rides, spirited cribbage games, and so much more. 

While life tends to get in the way, this scheduled excuse is an easy reason to ensure that the calendar doesn’t get filled with something else. It’s the perfect justification to meet up with family and friends, and just enjoy time together. 

There’s something special about the keenness leading up to the opener. In the Midwest, winter often hangs on for much longer than necessary, and this annual occurrence represents something more. It signifies a change in weather, warmer temperatures, and longer days. For many, this is the first real opportunity to get on the water for the season. 

Anticipation is high. Boats are removed from storage and readied for their maiden voyage, rods and reels are dusted off and strung with new line, and tackle is organized again and again—at least for most. We all know that one guy who shows up essentially empty-handed with the same line and jig he’s been using for every opener. 

Across the Northwoods of Minnesota and Wisconsin, small towns are once again teeming with life. Cabins are opened up for the season. Aas stations become a revolving door of customers. And resorts, restaurants, and local watering holes are packed to the gills. Such traditions breathe new life into a community after a long, quiet winter. 

Despite the overall pandemonium that ensues, a sense of splendor can be found in the opening weekend. It’s safe to assume that landings will be busy, the best spots will be crowded, and your favorite bait might be sold out, but that’s okay. Remember, it’s about more than that. As the season wears on, I there’ll be plenty of opportunities to hit your favorite spots on your favorite lakes—without the additional pressure. 

Fishing openers may look a little different than they used to—especially with early catch-and-release seasons for species like trout and bass—but the traditions are just as important. While they may change over time, they’re about more than the actual fishing. They’re about excuses to get together with the same people, in the same places, at the same times. 

Remember to tell the stories, reminisce on the good times, laugh about the not-so-good times, participate in midnight launches, enjoy good food with great company, and ultimately, remind yourself what it’s actually about.