Mille Lacs Area Tourism Blog

NEWS RELEASE FOR 2012 MILLE LACS HISTORY FESTIVAL & RENDEZVOUS

2012-04-24T07:58:00.001-05:00

The Twentieth Annual Mille Lacs History Festival & Rendezvous is being presented by the Mille Lacs Lake Historical Society June 30 & July 1 at a site 6 miles south of Isle or 16 miles north of Ogilvie on Hwy 47, and 1 mile west on Red Road.

This living history event brings the early 1800s to life with woodsman, frontiersmen, trappers, traders, and artisans. There will be demonstrations, storytellers, musicians, food, entertainment, a black powder shooting competition, and competitions of other old time armaments.

Public admission is $2.50 and free to those 10 and under. Hours are 9 am - 6 pm Saturday and 9am - 4 pm on Sunday. There will be a Flag-Raising and 21 Gun National Salute at 10:00AM on Saturday. Please join us at our new location just across the road and help celebrate our 20^thanniversary!"

Anyone interested in participating can obtain details by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to: MLLHS History Fest / P O Box 42 / Isle MN 56342 or for an automated reply send an email to millelacs.vous@gmail.com

PRESS RELEASE - NTC/MWC Walleye Tournaments Come to Mille Lacs Lake

2012-01-23T10:51:00.001-06:00

For More Information Contact:

Dan Johnson: 651-237-0159; djohnson@namginc.com

MWC at 877-893-7947 or events@masterswalleyecircuit.com

Legendary Mille Lacs Lake Primed For
Cabela’s NTC/MWC Dual Tournaments

JANUARY 23, 2012—Minnetonka, MN—A high-stakes yet friendly competition of epic proportions is brewing on one of the world’s premier walleye factories. More than 600 anglers from across the U.S. are expected to compete for over $350,000 in cash and prizes when the Cabela’s National Team Championship and Cabela’s Masters Walleye Circuit visit Mille Lacs Lake out of Isle, Minnesota, May 31-June 2.

The tournaments will be run together, allowing two-person teams to participate in one event or fish both simultaneously. The Cabela’s NTC features 250 teams who qualified for the event by earning points at more than 50 sanctioned grassroots walleye clubs across the country. The Cabela’s MWC tournament is open to all two-person teams regardless of club or sponsor affiliation, with registration now open.

“Cabela’s is excited to be returning to where the NTC started in 2002,” said NTC tournament director Lara Herboldsheimer. “The tournament has grown from just a few qualifying clubs in the first year to over 60 clubs vying for the 250 spots. The fishing should be excellent and provide for a competitive weigh-in.”

All teams will compete the first two days, with the Cabela’s MWC side of the event concluding the second day. The top 25 NTC teams on Day Two will carry their weights into a third and final day of competition. Weigh-ins are set for Izaty’s Resort Days One and Two, and McQuoid’s Inn the final day.

Both events offer potential for big winnings. Last August, Wisconsin anglers Derek Navis and Korey Sprengel scored a huge double-victory at the NTC/MWC dual event on Bays de Noc, Michigan, when 275 teams from across the U.S. and Canada gathered to battle for more than $300,000 in cash and prizes. Navis and Sprengel’s winnings included a pair of Cabela’s 50^th anniversary-edition Ranger 619s rigged with Evinrude E-tec motors, plus more than $49,000 in cash and sponsor bonuses from Cabela’s, Ranger Boats, Lowrance Electronics, Berkley, U2/The Oxygenator and PRADCO Outdoor Brands for a total payday topping $180,000 in winnings.

And in June of 2010, 358 teams battled for more than $350,000 in cash and prizes when the dual event was held on Lake Winnebago at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The massive, fun-filled event was also recognized by Guinness World Records as history’s largest fishing tournament. Given Mille Lacs’ great accommodations and walleye fishery, tournament officials expect a strong turnout this season as well.

Tournament host, Mille Lacs guide and competitive angler Kevin McQuoid expects teams to enjoy world-class walleye fishing throughout the event. “I’m excited about the prospects for a great bite and fantastic tournament,” he says. “The lake’s very healthy, with huge numbers of keeper-size walleyes, plus an abundance of trophy fish.”

McQuoid also expects teams to find fish across the 128,000-acre lake. “The fish will be spread everywhere, from shallow rocks and sand to deeper gravel and mud,” he explains. “And at the first of June, these fish are hungry. It’s typically a livebait bite with leeches or ’crawlers, but artificials do well, too, so anglers are going to be able to choose their favorite styles of fishing and really play to their strong suits.”

Indeed, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources area fisheries supervisor Rick Bruesewitz expects anglers to encounter a “large 2008 year-class” of 14- to 15-inch walleyes, plus plenty more in the larger size classes. A 5-fish team bag plus protective 18- to 28-inch slot limit means the key to placing high will be bringing the right mix of “unders” and “overs” to the scale each day.

Adding to the excitement, the tournaments will be filmed for television airing on NBC Sports and other national networks. Media coverage will also reach North American Fishermanmagazine’s 3.2 million readers, 50,000 Facebook fans of the North American Fishing Club, and a host of other venues.

To further safeguard the fabled Mille Lacs fishery, both tournaments are catch-and-release events featuring weight deductions for non-releasable fish. Plus, the Cabela’s MWC will donate $15 per boat toward local walleye conservation projects. To date, the Circuit’s Walleye Conservation Fund has donated more than $300,000 in cash to conservation in areas where its tournaments are held. The Cabela’s MWC is also working with the Minnesota DNR on steps to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Founded in 1984, the Cabela’s MWC is the oldest team tournament circuit in the walleye world. It has a rich history of intense competition on top destinations, plus youth outreach and a lasting legacy of conservation. Open to diehard anglers from all walks of life, the 2012 Cabela’s MWC trail includes nine qualifiers spread across six states in the Walleye Belt from Colorado to Ohio. Teams showcase their skills—and sponsor products—at world-class venues such as the Detroit, Illinois, Mississippi and St. Mary’s rivers, plus Lake Erie, Mille Lacs, Winnebago, Oahe and more.

Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter for hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, is looking forward to its 11th season as title sponsor of the MWC. Official sponsors include: Berkley Gulp!, Ranger Boats, Mercury Marine, MotorGuide, Lowrance, NBC Sports Television Network and the North American Fishing Club. Associate Sponsors include: Berkley Trilene, Okuma Fishing Tackle, O2 Marine Technologies, Ryjus, Reflections, Worldwide Marine Insurance, The Walleye Federation and RPM Outdoor Sports.

Registration opened Jan. 9 for all 2012 Cabela’s MWC qualifying tournaments. For more information, call (877) 893-7947, email events@masterswalleyecircuit.com, or visit www.masterswalleyecircuit.com.

Safety Tips For the Ice Angler

2011-12-06T09:40:00.001-06:00

Winter recreational sports are popular activities here in the Midwest. With these activities come some safety precautions to follow, especially when ice over water is involved. Ice can be very dangerous and people can be injured or killed when it is not respected.

It's important to remember that ice on ponds, lakes and rivers can be affected by many things. The strength and thickness of the ice should be known before any acitvities take place on it.

To determine what activities can safely take place, a rough rule of thumb is given in the chart below. The below chart is for basic reference only and is not an absolute in all areas since many factors can effect ice conditions.

Inches*     Activities
3                Walking
4                Fishing
5                Snowmobiling
8-12           Driving a vehicle
*Inches of new, clear ice
Note: River ice is usually 15 percent weaker than pond or lake ice.

Ice safety points you should consider to include are:
#1. New ice is usually stronger than old ice. As ice ages, the bond between the crystals decays making it more dangerous and weaker even if melting has not occurred.
#2. Wind speeds influence ice formation. Light winds speed up the formation. Strong winds force water up from beneath the ice and can decay the edges of the ice.
#3. Snow can insulate good ice and keep it strong. It can also insulate it to keep it from freezing. When ice is covered by snow, great precautions need to be taken to determine ice thickness before starting any snow activity. Snow can also hide cracked, weak and open water areas.
#4. Slush is a danger sign. It indicates that ice is no longer freezing from the bottom and indicates weak or deteriorated ice.

Always remember that ice can change with the surrounding climate conditions. Temperature, precipitation (such as snow, sleet, rain), wind speed, ice age, water depth and water quality are all factors that affect ice strength and thickness.

Never check ice or try to rescue a victim of ice failure alone if at all possible, because you could go from the rescuer to victim very quickly with no other help around.

Precautions need to be taken to assure the ice is safe for your winter recreational activities. Always check the ice before going out on it. Be aware that ice thickness and strength can vary from location to location. By following these safety procedures listed, you can bundle up, be safe, and enjoy the many winter activities in that our great outdoors has to offer.

So now that the winter season is upon us, use extra care upon going out on that ice.

By Mike Cyze from Midwest Outdoors

Note: The Mille Lacs area resorts and ice fishing businesses take great care in checking ice conditions on a daily basis. Take the extra time to stop in and talk with them and get information about the ice conditions, any spots to stay clear of, etc., they are they to help you out but always check for yourself. Be Smart Be Safe.

Is Your Boat Ready for Winter Storage?

2011-11-06T15:18:00.003-06:00

Boats need pre-winter maintenace in preparation for the extreme cold just around the corner. However readers experience a wide range of winter temperatures, from Michigan and Wisconin to the north and southern Illinois and Kentucky to the south.

Regardless of their winter differences, anglers in the north and mid-south need to take steps to weatherize their engines and electronics. Here are some tips to ensure your boating gear is in good working order next spring. Tailor these tips to the severity of your winter.

Hopefully most boaters have drained and refilled their outboard's lower units already; owners of four-stroke motors have changed the engine oil and filter, and sprayed anti-fog oil in the cylinders. And any fuel left in the tank has been treated with an Ethanol stabilzer like Marine Sta-bil.

Trolling motor batteries require attention to keep the electrolyte from freezing and damaging the plates. Non maintenance-free batteries should be filled with distilled water and onboard chargers plugged in to maintain their charge.

The cranking battery needs TLC also, ensure the electrolyte level is okay and if it isn't part of the onboard charging system, install an inexpensive automatic onboard charger dedicated to the cranking battery.

According to the Trojan Battery Company a battery at 40 percent charge will freeze at 16 degrees F, while a fully charged battery won't freeze until -92 degrees F. What most boaters don't realize is, a battery loses its charge sitting in a boat or basement doing nothing, hence the value of onboard charging.

ProMariner ProSport 1.5 Battery Charge Maintainer, selling for under $40, will keep a cranking battery full charged. See it a Bass Pro Shops or www.basspro.com.

Other boat items to check are life jackets, fire extinguishers, raingear, and accessories like pliers and landing nets.

Life jackets are easy to inspect for wear and lost buoyancy which can lessen the total weight it can float. Check for lively foam by pressing your hand onto the foam area; if it doesn't spring back quickly, chances are the foam has lost some buoyancy and the jacket should be replaced. For inflatable life jackets, follow the manufacturer's recommended procedure to ensure the device is in good working order and the CO2 cartridges are withing expiration dates.

Boat fire extinguishers usually have a gauge to measure their pressure. If it's low our out of date, replace it; they are less expensive than a new boat. Area marine dealers should have a selection of appropriate extinguishers.

Unlike "rubber" raingear of the past, today's high-tech fabric suits are nearly impossible to repair, especially if they are lined with insulation. Replace anything that leaks badly enought to be uncomfortable.

Check the landing net for broken or rotten cords. To save a few dollars, just replace the net. Try a rubber net; the almost never tangle in a lure's hooks. If the handle is broken or loose, check out Frabill's slection at www.frabill.com.

Lubricate depth finder connectors and rusty pliers with a quality dielectric CorrosionX.

Inspect lures by checking the hooks and split rings. Replace rusty or damaged hooks and partly open split ring with new ones. Try Red Daiichi treble hooks because they seem to catch more fish. Split ring pliers will make the job much easier.

Check each fishing rod for damaged guide windings. Apply color preserver or rod varnish to protect windings that are beginning to fray. Replace badly damaged windings.

Rotate a cotton swab inside each line guide. If any cotton pulls off or snags, it means the guide is worn or broken. Have an experienced rod repairman replace broken or loose guides.

Frequently used reels should be disassembled and cleaned at least once a year. Follow the manufacturer's directions for disassembly, cleaning, lubrication and reassembly. Maintenance on spinning and baitcast reels is rather complex, requiring experienced anglers or repair technicians.

Remove the old line, paying attention to which direction it was wound on the spool. Disassemble the reel as much as you feel comfortable with, and clean the parts.

Place a drop or two of oil on small moving parts and rotating shafts. Apply a film of grease on the gears, fasten new line to the spool, and reassemble the reel.

Two excellent high-tech reel lubricants are Quantum's Hot Sauce and ReelX by Corrosion Technologies. After lubing the reel, spool new line according to the directions in its box.

After the real is cleaned and oiled, spool it with new line. Spinning and spincast reels need soft, limp lines like Bass Pro Shops Excel or Berkley's Trilene XL.

Level wind or baitcast reels can be spooled with a much wider selection of lines, just remember to buy quality line from a reputable manufacturer.

Good winter maintenance to your boat and motor will increase your odds of a pleasant fishing experience in 2012.

by Darrell Taylor reprinted from Midwest Outdoors

A Spooktacular Halloween in the Mille Lacs Area

2011-10-26T15:04:00.000-05:00

With Halloween arriving this coming weekend, there are events and parties for all ages in the Mille Lacs Lake area to scream about.

For the Kids:

The Cities of Isle, Wahkon and Onamia invite all the little ghouls and goblins to dress up and come downtown to Trick-or-Treat from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Monday, October 31st. Look for the Orange posters with the pumpkin in the windows of participating stores.

For the Family:

The Haunted Hanger in Isle is not for the Faint of Heart. Located 1 mile north of Isle on Highway 47 at the Isle Airport. It will be open Friday and Saturday, October 28 & 29 from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm and Monday, October 31st from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The cost is $3 for kids 12 and under and $6 for adults and kids 13 and over. Admittance will be reduced by $1 with a non-perishable food item donation to the food shelf. Young children and the week at heart should come early before things get too scary. Sponsored by the Isle Lions. Each "room" in the maze has a theme. There are halls between each room and the characters can move around in from place to place. They know the layout of the hanger, but to the uninitiated, it is impossible to find your way around - come enjoy the fun in this spooky, scary maze!
Green Lantern located 10 miles west of Garrison on Highway 18 is hosting a costume party for all ages on October 29th, kids activities 3-6pm, booya(witches brew), spooky music outside, hay ride, red(blood) beer, and an evening DJ.
Light of the Cross Church in Garrison hosts Trunk or Treat, Fun for All Ages, October 31st at Dusk.
Paul Bunyan Land located 6 miles east of Brainerd on Highway 18 hosts the areas largest haunted attraction. Take your choice from three nightmares. The Haunted Corn Maze, Murder Manor and the new for 2011...Terror Town. All three are open from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm every Friday and Saturday through October 29th. Admission to each attraction is just $8 or save by buying all 3 for $20.

For the Adults:

Many area bar/restaurants will be hosting Halloween parties with costume contests, music, prizes and fun.

Buzzie's at Mac's Twin Bay Resort 3 miles north of Isle off Highway 47 - Costume Contest judging at 11:00 pm. Appetizers at Midnight.
Nitti's Hunters Point Resort approximately 9 miles north of Isle on Highway 47 - Costume Party with 1st, 2nd & 3rd place prizes.
Toucan's at Fishermen's Wharf Resort - Costume Contest judging at 11:30 pm with Cash Prizes for top 3 places, Food and Drink specials throughout the night.
Muggs on Main Street in Wahkon - Costume Contest judging at 10:00 pm, food & drink specials.
Isle Municipal Liquor Store on Main Street in Isle - Costume Contest judging at 11:30 pm, Live Entertainment starting at 8:30 pm, Pumpkin Carving Contest judging at 8:00 pm.
MSA on Big Point Drive 6 miles north of Isle - prizes for Costumes, Karaoke.
Bay View Bar & Grill on Cove Bay - Costume Contest judging at Midnight, win BayView $$ for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place.
Many other establishments will have parties, stop in at some or visit them all!

Come celebrate your Halloween in the Mille Lacs area
We'll Scare the Yell Out of You!

Honest Photo Tips for Sportsmen

2011-09-05T12:09:00.003-05:00

We know you're lying. And you've got the pictures to prove it.

For as long as there have been cameras, fake pictures have been the sportsman's best friend. Caught a fish that isn't exactly a trophy? Bring out the camera. Got a buck whose antlers aren't big enough? Just point and shoot. The obvious trick, of course, is to put the camera lens very close to the little trophy while you remain in the distant background, smiling proudly. The object in the foreground will always look huge. And everybody will believe you.

OK, nobody believes you. And those staged photos look, well, completely staged. But honesty would not appear to be the goal in this age of increasingly modified photos. As leaders in the field, outdoorsmen originated the art of exaggeration, and staged photos likely will remain the sportsman's best friend for as long as there are cameras.

But for the tiny fraction of hunters and fishermen who actually prefer an honestly good photograph worth framing, here are a few tips that can help you create better photos of you and your legitimate prize.

1. THINK BACKGROUND SCENERY

Imagine the photo you're about to take without the subject: Would you take a picture of an empty garage or a grimy bed of a pickup? Know that a fisherman holding a fish out at the lake looks much better than a fisherman holding a fish in a messy kitchen. A hunter with a deer in the woods always looks better than a hunter with a deer in the bed of a pickup. As a habit, bring your camera along with you and take pictures while you're still out in nature.

2. RESIST THE DEPTH-PERCEPTION GIMMICK
Do not position the deer, fish, turkey or whatever it is you're photographing too close to the lens. The fact is, meaningless distortion of scale actually creates a pointless image in which the size of the "trophy" remains completely unknown. For honest "trophy" pictures that are truly memorable, focus on taking a well-composed photo. If you demand proof that your 15-inch crappie really was 15 inches, go ahead and lay a ruler next to the fish. It'll be just another one of those boring ruler pictures-so also take a better shot while holding the fish.

3. GET CLOSER
True, shoving a fish right in front of the camera looks about as realistic as a fun-house mirror. But, when taking people pictures, don't forget to get close enough to show the details you want to see. When photographing people holding a limit of ducks or a stringer of crappie, as a rule, take one or two steps closer to the subjects. Otherwise, the people and their trophies might look like distant strangers in a field.

4. THINK ABOUT LIGHTING, AND WHETHER USING A FLASH WILL HELP-EVEN IN DAYLIGHT
"Lighting is everything" is the photographer's golden rule. Bad lighting can be the ruin of otherwise well-composed shots (as an example, hold a flashlight under your chin to see how lighting changes everything.) Don't assume daylight is always your friend. Harsh shadows and severe contrast in sunlight can turn a smiling face beneath a baseball cap into an opaque shadow nobody will recognize. Using what's known as a "fill flash" can balance the exposure in daylight.

5. CLEAN UP
Take a moment to make your trophy look nice and fresh. A smooth, glistening walleye looks better than a walleye covered in grass and dirt. A deer with a closed mouth looks better than a deer that has its tongue dangling over the edge of the tailgate.

6. TAKE A FEW SHOTS FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES
Why rush through your photo session if the goal is to produce a nice photograph you can send to your envious hunting and fishing pals? Many sportsmen point and shoot a camera as if they were swinging a shotgun at rockt-fast doves. Click. They're done. Although great shots sometimes happen through sheer luck, investing a couple of minutes extra to compose a better show will increase the odds of producing a good photo that honestly shows off your trophy.

7. FINALLY, KNOW ANY CAMERA CAN TAKE GOOD PHOTOGRAPHS
The old expression goes: "It's a poor musician who blames his instrument." Likewise, buying an expensive camera thinking you're going to take better pictures is like buying an expensive car because you think it will make you drive better. The best photos are made by photographers, not cameras.

By Joe McFarland reprinted from Midwest Outdoors

Test Your Walleye IQ

2011-08-16T09:38:00.000-05:00

Testing your fish IQ can be fun, informative and useful when it comes to outsmarting your favorite species. The more you know, the better informed you'll be when you're trying to track down a trophy or a meal.

We're reminded of Joe Friday on Dragnet, if you're old enough to remember that early television classic. "Just the facts, ma'am."

Where and when do walleye spawn?
Regardless of the body of water that walleye inhabit, they spawn in temperatures around 42 to 54 degrees in shallow water on gravel or hard bottom. They need flowing water to provide oxygen to the eggs and to keep silt from smothering them. There is a theory that walleye evolved within river systems. When available, they will return to rivers and creeks to spawn. They will also spawn on rocky, mid-lake humps.

How many eggs does a mature female walleye lay?
This was a recent question put to us and we had to look up the answer ourselves. Female walleye lay approximately 50,000 to 60,000 eggs per kilogram, or 2.2 pounds, of body weight. Do the math. A 5-pound fish can lay 300,000 eggs! A 10-pound fish can produce over half a million.

Walleye are broadcast spawners. Parents abandon their offspring and provide no protection for the young, which are born into a harsh eat-or-be-eaten world. Of the eggs laid, only about 5 to 20 percent actually hatch. Only one of every 10,000 of those will survive. It's easy to see why releasing those pre-spawn females is important.

What is the walleye's preferred temperature range?
Walleye have a reputation for liking cool water. We suspect that's based on the spawning temperature. But scientists say walleye like 60 to 70 degrees, and some say they're most active at 73 degrees. It's a key bit of information to know since water temperature is the single most important determining factor on where walleye will be.

Remember this motto from our friend, walleye pro Jason Przekurat: "North, south, outside, in." This means that walleye are active on the north side of the lakes first where the water warms first. They then spread to the south around the rim. As water continues to warm, they head towards deeper water and mid-lake structures when available. As fall approaches, the migration is reversed.

So how good are their eyes really?
Walleye have eyes more light sensitive than humans. This explains why they're most active in twilight or after dark when they see well but their prey can't. It also explains why walleye can be found very deep or in cover, such as weeds, or on the windy side of a lake, or on a reef where waves cut light penetration. Yellow perch, which are closely related to walleye, lack the same eye construction, so they are often a walleye's preferred meal.

Walleye also see shades of color, mostly yellow, green and orange. They are rumored to be blind to colors like blue. But remember, water clarity and depth affect the actual color they can see, so what they react to best will vary with conditions from day to day. We've seen situations when blue can be the preferred color over everything else.

Do walleye rely on sight?
No way. They have extremely well developed lateral lines and sensors which permit them to sense prey many feet away. They can actually single out a baitfish swimming erratically from the rest of the school. They can feed 50 feet down in murky water.

Walleye eat mostly other fish, right?
The answer to that is yes, and no. Walleye are opportunistic, which means that they will eat what's available. Walleye start off by eating plankton during their early days, shift to insects, and later to other fish. Even adult fish eat insects when they are handy. Shiners, perch and other small fish can be the primary forage depending on the body of water and the time of year.

Are rainstorms a good thing when it comes to walleye fishing success?
Again, yes and no. Cloud cover and wind favor active feeding because of reduced light penetration and low pressure which frees fish of all kinds to be more active. But scientists believe walleye are especially sensitive to lightening and thunder, which can turn them off. Stable weather is often good because walleye will turn to predictable feeding patterns and stay in the same locations for awhile.

Does moon phase matter?
The answer to that question depends on who is asked. We couldn't find a scientific study on the topic but when fishermen are asked, they all seem to have an opinion. The conclusion is...Just as many big walleye are caught during each moon phase-new, first quarter, full and last quarter.

What tactics are best to catch walleye?
Thousands of articles and books are written about this topic. It can be confusing. But there is an easy way to think about this. Ask yourself but one question: what technique will show a lure to the most walleye in the least time? That is the name of the game after all. The more walleye that see your live bait or lure, the higher the odds are that one will take what you are offering. Are the fish stacked on a mid-lake hump in a small area? Then target them with jigs, a Lindy Rig, or a slip bobber. Are they spread over a huge area like you'll find in spots like Lake Erie's Western Basin? Then troll lures or spinners. Start at the upper end of the trolling speed right for what bait you are using and slow down if you have to. With crankbaits, your speed should be about 1.5 mph up to 2.8 mph. Spinners work best down from 0.8 mph up to 1.7 mph.

Did you "ace" the course? A good grade translates to you having a better chance to put walleye in your boat.

By Ted Takasaki and Scott Richardson courtesy of Midwest Outdoors

Mille Lacs Resort named to "The Official Best of Minnesota 2011" List

2011-07-31T08:31:00.000-05:00

Official Best Of is proud to be featuring Minnesota’s top attractions on The Official Best Of Minnesota 2011. The Official Best of Minnesota will be on CBS WCCO, at 12:00 PM on Saturday Sunday 31^st, 2011, as well as on Discovery at 3:30AM Central, 4:30AM Eastern & Pacific, & 5:30AM Mountain Time on August 8^nd, 2011 and on the popular OfficialBestOf.com travel website.

Awarded as The Official Best this year are:

The Van Dusen Mansion– Best Wedding Venue – Minneapolis

Mestad’s – Best Bridal Shop – Rochester

U.S. Hockey Hall Of Fame – Best Sports Museum – Eveleth

Twin Cities Food Tours – Best City Tour – Minneapolis

Crescent Moon Bakery – Best Pizza – Minneapolis

Reiki – Day Spa – Warroad

Nacho Mama’s – Best Mexican Restaurant – Stillwater

City of Red Wing – Best Historic Town – Red Wing

Fitzgerald Theater – Best Historic Theatre – Saint Paul

Hubbell House – Best Landmark Restaurant – Mantorville

Izatzy’s Resort – Best Golf And Yacht Club – Onamia

Each state production showcases outstanding "best" attractions in a variety of categories located throughout each state. A research staff studies online travel sites, state tourism information, CVB resources and other sources to determine whether an attraction merits the "Official Best" reputability. One distinction that sets Official Best Of apart from many other travel sites is that it doesn't accept advertising on either its television programs or its website. The selection of attractions is entirely by merit, and lesser known but worthy attractions are given the same attention as famous ones.

As with each state production, The Official Best of Minnesota for 2011 will offer a great resource for those planning a vacation, day trip or outing for residents within the State of Minnesota as well as out-of-town visitors. Official Best Of is currently working its way through all fifty states. Visit www.OfficialBestOf.com for more information.

What's Behind the Butterflies?

2011-07-27T12:17:00.000-05:00

When the Monarch butterflies are released from their tiny envelopes and up into the air at Wahkon Days Aug 20, many people watching might not know that they’re witnessing more than just some beautiful little winged insects fluttering against the blue sky.

Each butterfly will become a symbol of a memory of a loved one who has passed on, and the idea began with Anita Sparks. Sparks was the volunteer coordinator for Mille Lacs Health system back in 1999.

She was looking for a unique fundraiser for the Hospice program. “I thought the butterflies were a wonderful idea,” Sparks said. “Then I found out that a local school could actually raise the butterflies.” Sparks partnered with Program 2 at the Nexus Mille Lacs Academy, and the students raised the butterflies from the egg stage to adulthood. “We did this for a few years till the supply became infected at the source,” Sparks said. “But it was something to experience while it lasted. The boys really were invested in the lives of those butterflies and took that responsibility very seriously.”

Now, the butterflies are obtained from a butterfly ranch near Little Falls and each comes in an origami-release envelope. This 12th annual release will be an important part of the fundraising efforts of the MLHS Hospice, which tends to the needs of patients in a 40 mile radius who are terminally ill.

The Hospice program has six Registered Nurses, five Home Health Aides, a Social Worker, a Volunteer Coordinator, PT/OT and Speech, and 15 volunteers. Along with grants, the program is funded through fundraisers such as the Butterfly Release, Santa Day, bake sales and online auctions, and the Pie Booth at Onamia Days.

A butterfly can be purchased in the name of a loved one who has passed on, and Sparks said the idea was to offer a measure of comfort within the framework of the fundraiser. “It’s a very healing emotional experience,” she said. “Release and letting go, that’s part of closure.”

Butterflies can be purchased for $10 at the Mile Lacs Messenger, First National Bank in Isle, Woodlands Bank in Onamia, and also by sending $10 and the name of your loved one to: MLHS Hospice, PO Box A, Onamia, MN 56359.

Courtesy of Mary Rains - Mille Lacs Health System

Summer Travel Tips

2011-07-21T13:22:00.000-05:00

If you're traveling to the Mille Lacs Lake area this summer, Tourism Information Centers are located in Isle on Highway 27 (630 West Main Street, Isle, MN) which is open year round. The Garrison Commercial Club Information Center is near the Concourse on Highway 169 in Garrison and is open summer months Thursday through Monday only. Stop in and say "hello" when you're in our area.

And speaking of travel tips – here are a few resources to keep in mind as you’re planning your summer getaway.

The Mille Lacs Area Tourism website has events, accommodations like resorts, hotels and campgrounds and attraction information. There’s also a special "Hot Deals" section where you will find member discount coupons.
Fishing? You can get your Minnesota fishing license locally or online.
Wondering about your route? Check the Minnesota Dept. of Transportation road map.
State Parks? Father Hennepin State Park in Isle and Kathio State Park north of Onamia off of Highway 169 have events, swimming, camping, trails and more.
Love history? Check out the Mille Lacs Indian Museum & Trading Post or the Mille Lacs Lake Museum.

For more Mille Lacs Lake area news – be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Boaters: Tips for Preparing for Summer Lightning Storms

2011-07-12T12:10:00.000-05:00

The weather's power and rage showed itself recently with the devastating springtime tornadoes that roared through the south. For recreational boaters, summer thunderstorms bring danger not only with wind and waves, but also with lightning strikes. BoatUS' Seaworthy Magazine recently took a look at how to protect yourself from this hazard while boating, sailing and fishing on the open water and has these tips:

Don't wait until it's too late: Get off the water early. Getting to safe harbor is the safest bet. If you're in a powerboat and can't get in, you may be able to get around the storm.
Inside is best: If you can't get off the water in time, the best place to be on a boat is inside any cabin, but avoid being near mast or chainplates (sailboats), or large metal appliances like refrigerators.
Keep away from metal: If there is no "down below" and you're stuck out on deck, stay away from metal railings, wheels, the mast and mast stays (both on sailboats), or any other metal fittings. A boater was killed in North Carolina when lightning jumped from his sailboat's backstay to his head and then the metal steering wheel he was holding.
Don't be a lightning rod: If you're on an open boat, stay low and in the center. Depending on the severity of your situation, it's also a good idea to remove jewelry. The US Coast Guard reports a case a few years ago in which lightning struck a man you was standing up wearing a large medallion.
Stay out of the water: Don't fish during a thunderstorm - or dangle toes overboard.
Disconnect the power and antenna leads to your electronics: Many strikes just damage electronics so disconnecting them goes a long way in preventing equipment damage.
Lower antenna: Unless they serve as part of a lightning protection system, lower any antennas.
Stay silent: Don't use the VHF unless absolutely necessary.
Lightning grounding protection systems: Grounding systems, which provide a path for the lightning to enter and safely exit the boat, must be free or corrosion if they are going to provide any protection.
Dissipater dilemma: As for mast-top lightning dissipaters, there is no agreement by the experts on how well or if they work at all. It should be noted that BoatUS insurance claims files show that boats with "brush-like" dissipaters mounted at the top of the mast have been struck by lightning.
If you do get hit: 1) Check people first; 2) then check the bilge as strikes can rupture through-hull fittings and punch holes in hulls; 3) check electronics and compass, and if all is good up to this point; 4) you may want to consider a short haul to check the bottom thoroughly (trailerboats can be inspected when you get back home). The challenge with lightning strikes is that they sometimes leave hard to find traces of damage that may only be seen when the boat is out of the water.

For more information read "We've Been Hit! Surviving a Lightning Strike" by David Keen in the April 2011 issue of BoatUS Seaworthy Magazine found online at www.BoatUS.com/Seaworthy.

Published four times a year by BoatUS Marine Insurance, Seaworthy's pages are filled with case studies that provide insight into how to avoid accidents, breakdowns, injuries and the "unexpected" circumstances that can jeopardize the safety of your boat and guests. Annual subscriptions are available for $10 at www.BoatUS.com/seaworthy.

Courtesy of Midwest Outdoors "Helping People Enjoy the Outdoors"

Is Your PFD a "Life Jacket"?

2011-06-07T11:46:00.001-05:00

In the early days of boating PFD's (portable floatation device) were called "life jackets" or "life savers". With increasing Coast Guard regulation on waterways, the PFD designation came into popular usage. Basically, what every boater buys a PFD for, is to be a life saver.

How do you buy a PFD that is serviceable, comfortable, and will save your life in the event of an accident on the water?

First you have to decide what you want your jacket to do. Do you wear your PFD the whole time you are on the water, or do you put it in a compartment ready to go if you need it? On Federal waterways you must have an appropriately sized PFD for every person on board. More of the states have a similar law. Jackets are priced from under $20 to almost $300. Some major retailers will even have special four-pack adult jackets for as little as $50, during the summer season. Just be sure the PFDs you buy are designated Coast Guard Approved, so if there is an accident, they will provide the proper floatation for each person. Also, if you are stopped for inspection, the PFDs on board will pass.

There are five classifications of PFD's:
The Type I offshore life jackets are meant to assure your safety in rough water, where rescue may not be very soon. These have the most buoyancy and in most instances will turn an unconscious person face up in the water. These are the ones carried on most commercial boats.
Type II are meant for inshore waters, where a quick rescue is likely. These may or may not turn an unconscious person face up in the water. Some inflatable vests fall within this category.
Type III - These can be vests, long sleeved jackets or inflatable vests and are often listed as floatation aids. They are not recommended for rough waters and are not designed to turn an unconscious person face up in the water.
Type IV are the throwable devices such as rings and cushions. They are meant to be thrown to a person in trouble, not to be worn, and only for persons capable of holding on to the device.
Type V - These are vests, deck suits, hybrid PFD's and devices designed for a specific purpose like water skiing, kayaking or someone working around water. These must be used according to their label instructions.

Regulations on when to wear a PFD vary with the water you are on, your age (children have much stricter regulations than adults), your degree of activity, and your comfort level on the water.

While inflatables are most often used by tournament participants, if you choose an inflatable PFD be aware that it must be worn at all times on the water. We found them only in Type II and Type III. Keep in mind that the inflatable devices are classified for use by swimmers only. For their own safety, non-swimmers should use foam ones only. Because these are not recommended for non-swimmers they are not a good choice for youngsters, even those juveniles who fall in the weight category of adults.

If you choose one that inflates, you will have to choose between Hydrostatic Inflation Technology (inflates under hydrostatic pressure), Automatic Inflation (inflates when submerged in water) or Manual Inflation (inflates by pulling a cord). All inflating PFDs we found were rechargeable, but to be sure to check before buying.

Most foam PFDs for adults can be stored in a compartment, where they are easily and quickly accessible. Inflatable PFDs cannot.

Keep in mind that PFDs are not all alike and some are much more comfortable than others. While a four-pack of jackets, for someone who often has friends who fish with them, can be an economical choice, these one-size-fits-all often will not provide the comfort of one chosen for the individual wearer. PFDs are being made now for different body types; some have mesh panels for warm weather wear, come in both short and long versions, vests, suspenders, body pouches, long sleeved jackets, some with zippers, others with snaps or clasps. Most women's jackets have cups to make them more comfortable, and children's jackets come with straps that are easier to adjust and much less binding than older ones.

It may cost a little more, but if every member of your boating family tries on their PFD and is happy with it, their time on the water will be more fun (whether the vest is worn or in a compartment). There will always be days that start out calm and beautiful, and turn into a rough water ride back to dock with everyone wearing his or her PFD. A comfortable, well-fitting one makes it less stressful for everyone.

All too often we purchase a PFD at the last minute, glancing over those in stock, picking by price, color or convenience. Instead, consider that your PFD is a life saver. The next time you buy one take as much time as you would to buy a winter jacket, walking shoes, or a barbeque. When needed, the PFD is the most important accessory in your boat, so pick one that you are comfortable wearing, fastens quickly and does the job you need it to do.

by Dick and Bess Pierce - Midwest Outdoors

On Outdoors: Fishing memories launched...

2011-05-31T14:32:00.000-05:00

It's a recipe for a good time for anglers of all levels and ages: Show up at the dock, join the rest of your group, and leave the rest of the details to your guide.

GARRISON, MINN. — "Fish on!" someone hollered.
A dinner bell clanged, signaling one of the 20 anglers aboard the 50-foot launch had hooked one. Guide and boat captain Greg Eno scrambled for a landing net.

"Oh, it's a big one," an angler shouted, seeing Jay Maher's rod bent in half. After a couple hours of fishing on a choppy Lake Mille Lacs Wednesday evening, the group had landed several small walleyes and keeper-sized perch. But Maher clearly had something much bigger.

While fellow anglers ooed and aahed, Eno netted the walleye -- a 27¾-inch dandy.

"You don't get a fish like that every day," said a grinning Maher, 49, of the Twin Cities, holding his trophy for photos before slipping it back into the lake.

Nor do you often get to catch a dandy fish with a crowd of onlookers to congratulate you.
But this is launch fishing, and it's something special. The ingredients: a good-humored group of souls, wide-ranging in age and fishing experience. Add one of the great walleye fisheries in the nation. Stir in a mild, clear-skied spring evening with a classic 'walleye chop' rocking the boat. Top it off with some classic '70s rock-and-roll music playing on the radio.

The result: a fishing experience unlike any other.

"You don't have to trailer a boat, they provide the rods and bait, they treat you like royalty -- and where else can you go on a fishing trip for less than $100?" said Tony Boys, 55, of Minneapolis, who was fishing with his wife, Royce, and two friends. For years he used to fish Mille Lacs with his dad, but the trips ended when his dad passed away. Now Tony has returned, choosing to go out in a launch operated by Twin Pines Resort near Garrison. This was his third outing.

"We limited out on a trip last fall," he said.

Though the fishing was relatively slow Wednesday night -- Boys caught a walleye and a jumbo perch -- he wasn't disappointed.

"Does it get any better than watching the sun go down over the water?" he said as dusk descended on the big lake.

The allure is simple

Launches long have been a common sight on Mille Lacs, and perhaps 30 or so ply the lake each summer. (Statewide, the DNR licenses 136 charter fishing boats 25 feet or larger.) While the size, style and amenities may vary, for anglers the allure is the same.

"People are just looking to go out fishing with family, friends or groups as an outing," said Bill Eno, who, with his wife, Linda, have owned Twin Pines Resort on the west shore of Mille Lacs for 16 years. They run two launches.

"You don't have to own your own boat and all that goes with it. You simply pay your $35 and walk on," he explained. "You bring your snacks and drinks. There's a bathroom on board. You don't have to bring your equipment. It's very easy." Older and younger anglers find the access convenient.

And there's the social aspect.

"Everyone has fun," Eno said. "If you have two people in a boat, and you catch two fish over a four-hour period, that's two catches you experience. But if you have 20 people on a launch, and everyone catches one fish, that's 20 catches. And even though you're not catching them all, you share the joy and excitement of catching fish."

That was the case Wednesday evening. It was an eclectic group, with three anglers from Nebraska and two from Florida. Nine were women. Though some anglers caught nothing, there were plenty of hoots and whoops whenever someone hooked a fish.

Maher and his buddy Brad Otremba, 51, also of the Twin Cities, have been coming to Mille Lacs to fish from a launch for 15 years.

"It's comfortable and you don't have to worry about getting tossed around on the lake [in a smaller boat]," Maher said. "This really takes the hassle out of it."

"Hallelujah!"

We departed the Twin Pines dock at 6 p.m. and returned promptly at 10 p.m. (A night fishing ban prohibits angling after 10 p.m. until June 13.) The group boated 18 walleyes. Half were released because of the lake's 18- to 28-inch protected slot limit. Possession limit is four, with one fish over 28 inches allowed. They also kept four eating-size perch.

"We've had better nights, but that's fishing," said Greg Eno. The cold spring hasn't helped. Still, the next night, five anglers caught 18 walleyes and kept 14, he said.

Martha Kooiman was fishing with her mom, Margaret, 86, and dad, Harold, 87, all of Bloomington. Her brother and sister-in-law were along, too.

"We had never tried a launch and heard good things," Martha said. Around 8:30, something hit Margaret Kooiman's leech.

"Fish on!" she shouted as her rod bent toward the dark water. The bell clanged and, after reeling the fish to the boat, guide Mike Gannon netted her dandy 23-inch walleye.

Her eyes lit up and she grinned like a kid at Christmas.

"Woo-hoo," she shouted. "Hallelujah! Not bad for an 86-year-old!"

Not bad at all.

Star Tribune • Doug Smith • dsmith@startribune.com

That ‘why no jigs at Mille Lacs?’ question

2011-05-28T09:16:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday evening, after weekend downpours swelled streams, raised lake levels, flooded fields and woods, and either discouraged or drenched anglers across much of Minnesota, I listened to KTLK-FM’s Outdoor Talk, with Tim Lesmeister and Outdoor News editor Rob Drieslein. Tim, Rob, and several guests touched diverse topics, including walleye-catching at Leech, Winnie, and elsewhere—often on jig-minnow combos. However, good-catching at Mille Lacs wasn’t linked to jigs. So the Outdoor Talkers brought up (but didn’t answer) a fun question: Why are jigs, so popular at most state walleye-fishing meccas, mainly absent at big Mille Lacs, Minnesota’s “premier” walleye lake?

I’ve got the answer. But first, know that “jigs” here mean leadhead jigs heavy enough to cast, drift, troll, vertical-fish, and variously work with different actions and retrieves. Sure, if we counted the small 1/32-ounce jigs used under slip-bobbers, Mille Lacs would be a jig-fishing capitol. But survey 500 angler boats on Mille Lacs and we’d possibly find nobody, or maybe a scarce handful, using the heavier jigs and jig-minnow combos so common elsewhere.

Here’s some background. When jigs took off in Minnesota, in the 1950s and 1960s, Mille Lacs was at the heart of it. Consider popular jigs of that period—like Upperman’s Bucktail, Thompson’s Doll Fly, Barracuda Super Dude, Gapen’s Ugly Bug, Little Joe’s Canadian Jig Flies, Maynard’s, and others. Surely Mille Lacs anglers bought more jigs than did any other group in the state. Tons of Mille Lacs walleyes hit those jigs, tipped and untipped.

In the early 1960s, Missouri-based Virgil Ward, famed for his Bass Buster Lure Co. and “Virgil Ward’s Championship Fishing” TV show, brought Bass Buster jigs (with maribou tails) to Mille Lacs. Virgil Ward’s group really beat up on Garrison Reef walleyes, reportedly landing about 200 fish, all on jigs. (Incidentally, Virgil Ward, who passed away in 2004, would have been 100 years old this week.

Leeches, Rigs, hot bites, news

Mille Lacs walleyes never formally said no to jigs. And fishing gods never ordered anglers to abandon jigs. However, the mid 1970s brought an abrupt fall-off in jig use at Mille Lacs—not because they fizzled, but because several forces converged to eclipse them: 1. Leeches. New for most anglers and much in the news, leeches became commonly available in 1973. 2. The Lindy Rig, manufactured and promoted in nearby Brainerd, meant small hook, light mono, and no-feel slip-sinker—a major presentation advance for “average anglers” used to cruder terminal tackle. 3. Bobber ‘n leech, day and night. Mille Lacs had a long history of “still fishing” with minnows, so bobbering with leeches was a natural. 4. Great timing. Several good walleye seasons in a row, including an extraordinary 1975, coincided with the coming of leeches, Lindy Rigs, new-wave bobbering, and refined crawler-spinner methods.

Also, slow-drifting or slow-trolling with slip-sinker rigs was easy. Ditto for anchoring-up and bobbering. Thus, hot mid-‘70s spring bites midst news about new (non-jig) approaches helped woo Mille Lacs anglers away from jigs, and, in many cases, from minnows too. Somehow this has all stuck—for several decades now. Another anti-jig distraction: more crankbait-trolling, in all seasons and in all depths. Of course, none of this makes 21^st century Mille Lacs walleyes allergic to jigs, or to minnows.

Courtesy of Joe Fellegy, Outdoor News — May 26, 2011

Leeches are a favorite bait on Mille Lacs Lake

2011-05-08T12:19:00.000-05:00

Leeches have been a popular bait for fishing walleye on Lake Mille Lacs for ages. Here are some Leech Facts:

Leeches are hermaphrodites - both male and female - and can produce 80 leeches.
The DNR estimates that $4 to $5 million worth of leeches are sold each year in Minnesota.
The bait leech called the ribbon leech is a scavenger and has no teeth for sucking blood. Walleye, smallmouth bass and crappie prefer the ribbon leech over other leeches. These leeches prefer the cool climate of Minnesota.
Every Minnesota fisher person knows that our gamefish are picky eaters, but there are few things a walleye likes better than a fat leech swimming on the end of a hook.
Leeches used around here are captured mainly from ponds. By mid-summer it's hard to find big, juicy ones that walleyes love the best.
Leeches have medicinal purposes too and have been used for centuries. Today, doctors use them in surgeries to restore blood circulation to grafted tissue to reattach fingers and toes. The leech has proved to be indispensable in maintaining blood flow during long surgeries.

Mille Lacs Lake Ice-Out

2011-04-19T14:46:00.000-05:00

Mille Lacs Lake ice out can be a nerve racking time of year for property owners on the lake. They hope for warm sun and light winds so the ice just quietly disappears. But many times strong spring winds blow moving the unstoppable ice on shore consuming anything in its path and all one can do is hold their breath and hope for the best.

The definition of lake ice-out varies from lake to lake, and individual to individual. For some, ice-out occurs only when the lake is completely free of ice. For others, ice-out is defined as the moment when navigation is possible from point A to point B. And yet for others, ice-out is when 90 percent of the lake is ice free. Due to the variable definitions of this rather subjective observation, the State Climatology Office attempts to contact the same individuals each year to maintain a consistent record.

In addition to differences in ice-out observation techniques, the variable period of record and variable length of record makes lake to lake comparisons of averages and extremes problematic. Differences in lake size, lake depth, and lake geometry also generate a large amount of variability among lakes in close proximity.

Mille Lacs Lake Ice Out per MN Climatology Working Group:

Average Date: April 24th
Earliest Date: April 2, 2000
Latest Date: May 5, 1965
Years of Data: 54 years

Today there is still a good cover of ice but it is softening every day. Bays are opening up and its pulling away from the shorelines on the big lake. There has been some wind and some movement of the ice sheet so piles of jagged ice have appeared in some locations.

Warm weather is on its way and everyone is looking forward to open water. Although the movement of the ice can be an extraordinary thing to see, let's just hope Mother Nature is kind and the ice departs the lake in a calm, quiet manner.

Enter Our Photo Contest - Win $25 Cash!

2011-04-14T13:31:00.001-05:00

Photo Contest - Enter your Mille Lacs Lake Area Photos and Win $25 Cash!

We are looking to update our photo library with people doing "stuff" - hiking, biking, shopping, playing, cultural, "unique" fishing photos, etc. Also need some wildlife, nature, etc.

Photos must be high resolution on either print or digital.

Include you name, address and phone number.

Photos will NOT be returned and all photos become the property of Mille Lacs Area Tourism Council to use as they see fit. Any photos used in the Mille Lacs Area Tourism Council 2012 Visitor guide will be given photographer credit.

Contest ends October 1st and Board Members of the Mille Lacs Area Tourism Council will make the final decision on the contest winning photo.

Send photos or disc to Mille Lacs Area Tourism Council, P.O. Box 286, Isle, MN 56342 or email to vacation@millelacs.com

Contest is open to anyone submitting Mille Lacs Area photos so pass the word on to your friends & family.

Thanks and I can't wait to see what you have for us!

DNR News Release

2011-03-09T14:30:00.000-06:00

No Change in Mille Lacs Walleye Slot, Northern Pike Regulation Relaxed
Released March 9, 2011

Anglers who fish Lake Mille Lacs will need to follow the same walleye regulations as in 2010, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The season will open Saturday, May 14, with a regulation that will allow anglers to keep up to four walleyes less than 18 inches, which may include one trophy more than 28 inches. Anglers must release all walleyes from 18 to 28 inches.

Starting July 15, if angler harvest is low enough to allow it, anglers may be allowed to keep walleyes up to 20 inches with one trophy more than 28 inches in the four fish limit. All walleyes from 20 to 28 inches would then need to be released.

The slot would revert to four walleyes up to 18 inches with one more than 28 inches in the four fish limit on Dec. 1. Any regulation changes would be posted at the accesses as well as on the DNR website.

“The walleye regulation is the same as last year and should provide anglers with ample opportunities to harvest some fish, very similar to last season,” said Dirk Peterson, DNR Fisheries chief. “The angling this winter has been pretty decent; anglers harvested nearly 24,000 pounds of walleye, which suggests a similarly decent bite for the open water season.”

For northern pike, the regulation will be a protected slot from 27 to 40 inches, with one trophy more than 40 inches allowed in the standard three fish possession limit. This regulation is a change from the 24- to 36-inch slot limit that has been in effect since 2002.

The new pike regulation is in response to the last several years of minimal angler harvest, an increase in abundance of northern pike, and a desire to maximize the trophy potential of this fast-growing population of pike. Mille Lacs pike regularly grow to sizes in excess of 40 inches. The northern pike regulation printed in the 2011 Minnesota Fishing Regulations booklet does not reflect this change but is correct in the online version.
“The new pike regulation increases anglers’ opportunities to harvest some of the smaller fish, while increasing the chances of being able to catch a true trophy northern pike,” said Peterson.

The combination of strong 2007 and 2008 year classes of walleye, now mostly 13-16 inches, will provide for a decent catch of eating sized walleyes for anglers to keep, while numerous year classes of older fish, now more than 18 inches, will provide for excellent catch and release experiences.

“With the rebounding of the Mille Lacs tullibee population in recent years, the larger fish have filled out and are now in very healthy condition,” Peterson said.

Last year, anglers caught more than 800,000 pounds of walleye and harvested 271,000 pounds (including 44,000 pounds of hooking mortality) under the same slot limit.

“These regulations continue to protect the long-term health of the fishery, allow excellent opportunity for anglers, and safeguard economic interests,” Peterson said. “The decision to maintain the same walleye regulation was made based on the best biological data as well as input from anglers and resort owners.”

Garrison February Events Rolled!

2011-03-01T13:33:00.000-06:00

Here's Sunday action from the first heat of Open Pro Quads, won by #28 Taylor Peterson

GARRISON -- More than 2,000 people converged on Garrison for last weekend's six-circuit ice racing events, helping this Mille Lacs Lake town cap its best winter recreational month in years.

"In a lot of years we haven't had snow or we've had rain and water on the ice in February," said Mark Tadych, Blue Goose Inn owner and event organizer for the races. He added historic perspective, having been in Garrison since 1993. "This is our best February yet."

Tadych and an estimated 30 Garrison Commercial Club members were on the ice, assisting with entry fees, parking, selling concessions and event oversight. It was the third straight weekend the community has been in the limelight on Mille Lacs Lake.

Arctic Blast XVI and the 7th Annual Ducks Unlimited Ice Fishing Tourney brought thousands to Garrison and Mille Lacs in previous weekends. The DU tourney had 3,054 registered anglers.

"This definitely helps the community make it through the winter," said Myron Stevens, President of the Commercial Club. "These last few weekends kind of make us or break us for the winter. And the ice fishing's been pretty slow lately."

Racing organizations operated on both days of the weekend independent of each other, making it a mecca for outdoor snowmobile, car, ATV and motorcyle racing.

The listing of circuits present: the Oval Racing Alliance (ORA); ORA Vintage Snowmobiles; Stud Club Motorcyle and ATV; Hardwater Racing Association; International Ice Race Assocation; and Kids Pro Ice all held races.

All have dedicated followings, websites and a healthy base of competitors. Tournament Banquets for many of the organizations were held at the Blue Goose Inn and Harbor Inn on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, Tadych and Stevens said. See some awesome racing photos from most circuits on the Make It Mille Lacs Facebook page.

Article courtesy of Mike Wehking, MakeItMillelacs.com

Perch Extravaganza Draws Thousands

2011-02-27T14:06:00.000-06:00

(Perch Extravaganza goers await the prize drawings Saturday at Hunters Point Resort)
When it comes to Mille Lacs Lake ice fishing fun, the Adamek family has it nailed.
On Saturday, members of this Jordan, Minn. clan deployed their 8.5 by 22-foot wheeled Custom Cottage fish house at the edge of the on-ice awards area out-front of Hunters Point Resort at 9 a.m., as part of the 28^th Annual Perch Extravaganza.

They augered holes in three feet of ice, dropped lines, powered up their generator and enjoyed themselves, fishing in four feet of water. Six couples stayed warm, cozy and well supplied, pulling the full contest shift. “We had 19 people in there shaking dice with the windows open, listening to numbers,” said Corey Adamek, referring to the 91-minute, post-fishing tourney raffle ceremony – which really was the main event after the 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. perch contest. “It was a total blast.”

The Adamek team caught some big ones. Prizes, that is. Two of their many button numbers were called, netting them a pair of Aqua-Vu underwater fish cameras, capping one of the luckiest weekends they can collectively recall at Mille Lacs Lake. Several family members scored big on pull tabs at Long Siding (Friday night) and Bayview Bar and Grill (Saturday evening)

“Then we pulled it (the house) back across the lake and we’re back out there fishing again,” said Adamek, who was with his whole group Saturday evening at Bayview, sharing a meal. “We’ve been coming up here for 20 years and we love it!”

Perhaps the luckiest participant of all Saturday was Elk River resident Steve Bellrichard. His button number – 1597 – was drawn last, handing him a new Ice Castle Fish house from Milaca Unclaimed Freight. Guns, ice augers, GPS units, and countless other pricey prizes were given away. A more detailed description of prizes is at the Johnson Portside Bait and Liquor website.

For the record, the winning perch was just more than 1.65 pounds, landing the lucky angler a $500 cash prize. In all, 21 perch more than a pound made the leader board. We’ve requested a list of the fishing winners and some post-event information from organizer Steve Johnson, owner of Johnson’s Portside Bait and Liquor. We will post more details when we receive them.

Sales of the $10 tournament buttons may have eclipsed records this year. Different colored, leftover buttons from 2010 and 2009 were dragged out to meet demand. Those “yellow ones”, with number, were called, helping ensure the integrity of the raffle drawing. Several long-time veterans of the tourney claimed it was the biggest on-ice group they had witnessed in years.

Article courtesey of Mike Wehking, MakeItMilleLacs.com

Everybody Wins at DU Tournament

2011-02-24T12:54:00.000-06:00

Garrison -- People, local businesses and ducks all won at Saturday’s 7^th Annual Ducks Unlimited Fishing Tournament on Garrison Bay.

Scott Ashby, St. Cloud, won a Chevrolet four-wheel drive truck with a 2.3 pound northern; Mark Fleick, Lonsdale, won the 18-foot wheeled fish house with his .29 pound perch. See the Make It Mille Lacs photo array!

A record-setting 3,054 anglers fished in moderate weather; Bette Hough and staff served 1,500 brats and hot dogs for the Svoboda Spotlight Café; and Garrison Commercial Club provided canned beer, doing a brisk business.

“It was a little raw out there with that slight breeze. If that sun would have come out we would have had it all,” said Tournament Director Greg Erickson, who said more than 204 Ducks Unlimited volunteers from around the state helped with the event. He said he was pleased that both duck hunters and fishing folks got exposed to each other’s sports, creating an area win-win situation for the future.

However, it is the local duck population which could benefit most. Proceeds from this event help provide local wild rice habitat for ducks. Erickson is waiting on the final financial status of the event, but guessed it would net $80,000 to $90,000.
For Monte and DeAnn Caddy of Ironton, the tournament was a milestone. It was the first time the couple has fished outside a fish house in 57 winters on Mille Lacs Lake. “It terrible cold right now, but it is a great tourney, “ Monte Caddy said, covered with a sleeping bag, but tending to his jiggle stick with fervor right up until the final flare gun blasted. The Caddy’s brought their daughter, Jill Hofstrand, and grandkids, Jayce, and Jordan to fish. The family was shutout and without a nibble but had fun.

For a rundown of the full leader board, go to the Garrison Ducks Unlimited website.

Article courtesy of Mike Wehking, MakeItMilleLacs.com

Perch and Pout Fest Draws 1,700-plus

2011-02-22T08:02:00.000-06:00

Saturday’s Annual Hunters Point Perch and Pout Fest drew more than 1,700 anglers to the eastern shore of Mille Lacs Lake.

The top three Perch placers were: Jeff Novotny 1.370 lbs; Gordy Brehmer 1.340 lbs; Andy Olson 1.330 lbs. The top three Pout were: Tom Inderieden 2.255 lbs; Toni Baumgartner 2.045 lbs; Patty Pribbenow 1.290 lbs. The winners in each class got a $300 cash prize.

Thanks to a hard freeze on Friday evening, the lake stiffened, allowing for easy travel after what had developed into some slop Thursday. The Perch and Pout Fest also served as a “tune-up” for this Saturday’s 28^th Annual Perch Extravaganza, which will be run out of Hunters Point Resort. That event could draw more than 4,000 anglers. Make It Mille Lacs will run a preview of that event Wednesday on our home page and be there to cover it Saturday.

At Hunter’s Point Saturday, the resort was a beehive of activity with a meat raffle, a full bar and the restaurant all humming while the tournament ran from 7 am to 2 pm. Scott Peterson, general manager, and Doug Ertl, public relations director, were multi-tasking to keep everything rolling.

Those clad in Hunters Point attire indoors may have been a slight minority, making you wonder just how big of a following this resort has. With more than 1,000 Facebook fans and one of the top web sites on the Big Pond, Hunters Point has a very loyal customer base as we found out.

“It’s our home away from home – it’s our winter weekend house,” said Cindy Taylor, Monticello. She and her husband, Jeremiah, were enjoying the meat raffle with Guerry and Suzanne Schuman of Maple Grove. Guerry wore the “signature” Hunters Point black and red sweat shirt, joining a bevy of others who also sported the gear. “The first time we came here we met George and Linda (Nitti) and they talked to us and they’ve never forgotten our name.”

“The customer service here is awesome,” said Suzanne who won three meat raffle draws while we were there. “You can always expect to come back and see the people you know."

Article courtesy of Mike Wehking, MakeItMilleLacs.com

It's Arctic Blast Time!

2011-02-09T08:49:00.000-06:00

Some current Vikings, former players and team executives along with Viktor the Viking arrive at the Mille Lacs Friday for a weekend of fun that will draw thousands to the area. It’s Arctic Blast! And Make It Mille Lacs will be there to cover the event.

The Vikings are staying at McQuoid’s Inn and Resort, shuttling northwest in a pair of 50-passenger buses -- weather permitting – around 5:30 pm Friday night all the way to White Hawk’s Bar and Restaurant on Bay Lake. There, the Vikings group will take part in a private party. The group may stop in Garrison enroute back to McQuoid’s, we were told by Vikings Children’s Fund Director Pat Leopold, who attended a Garrison Commercial Club meeting on February 2^nd.

Active players scheduled to attend are: Ben Leber, E.J. Henderson, Heath Farwell, Jeff Dugan, Fred Evans and Erin Henderson. Coaches Bud Grant and Karl Dunbar and former Vikings Jim Marshall, Paul Krause, Chris Doleman, Henry Thomas, Matt Blair, Bob Lurtsema, Stu Voigt, Pete Bercich, Doug Sutherland and Gerald Robinson will attend. Also on hand will be the Vikings radio voice Paul Allen and team cheerleaders.

Leopold praised the Garrison Commercial Club at a Feb. 2 member meeting: “We never, ever thought we’d have the kind of numbers of people that we now have here,” Leopold said. The event moved from the Ely, Tower and Embarrass area 13 years ago and is a Mille Lacs February mainstay.

“We’ve raised more than $100,000 (for the Vikings Children's Fund) these last three years," Leopold said. “Although we are struggling to get people to register early.” Sledders must register and check in at least two of the Four Blast Points to qualify for Sunday’s $30,000 worth of prizes drawing at the Mille Lacs Grand Casino Recreation and Events Center. Event goers can also register at each Blast Point on “Game Day”.

Saturday starts off with a breakfast with the annual Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe community breakfast at the Mille Lacs Events and Convention Center. The breakfast runs from 9 a.m. – noon Tickets available at the door: Breakfast: $8.50 for adults, $5.50 for children 12 ...or under. No Breakfast: $5 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under. And then it's off to the Blast Points!

This year’s route avoids the lake proper all together, instead traversing the 80-some miles around Mighty Mille Lacs. Let’s hope for some good weather and decent trail conditions and there are some lengthy travel times to get from places like Blue Goose to Castaways or from Buzzie’s on The Bay back up to the Blue Goose. There is a combination of some nice trail riding and some ditch beating on this mission.

Article courtesy of Mike Wehking, MakeItMillelacs.com

Toucan's: Too Cool!

2011-02-03T12:46:00.000-06:00

Everybody knows Toucan Sam, the famous Neotropical Fruit Loops Bird.

Fishermen’s Wharf Resort has an anonymous Toucan mascot headquartered in the establishment’s bar/restaurant whose motto is: "Two Cans are just the beginning."

Welcome to Toucan’s—Fishermen’s Wharf Bar and Restaurant. It powers the "fun engine" that is running on all cylinders at this popular East Shore Mille Lacs Lake Resort.

On arrival, the tropical theme embraces you. Its ocean blue, olive green, goldenrod and purple colors—with strategically-placed Toucan wall murals—help you forget about bone-chilling cold. In warmer seasons, the décor shouts "cool fun". The pull tab boxes, window view of the lake, coupled with scores of cheerful fishing folks and snowmobilers remind one that you are at Mille Lacs Lake.

The Toucan’s branding and warm feel are neat and unique to these parts, augmenting FWR’s great food, one-of-a-kind bar specials, superior service and depth of options that make it one of the finest operations on the Big Pond.

"We have the best food on the lake," said Neveda, general manager, when pressed for what sets Toucan's apart from its competition. She goes without a last name for privacy reasons. "And we’ve got our signature drinks. I can’t tell you about the last one – you’ll just have to come try it!"

Neveda was referring to the Toucan's Nut Shot. We’ll list the other beverages you won’t find elsewhere on Mille Lacs. Toucan's Trash Can (warning, 24 ounces); Toucan's Punch; Toucandy Cane; Toucan's Tea. The bar also offers bottomless bloody marys and screwdrivers for $10 from 3-6 pm Sundays this month.
While you are enjoying yourself or tackling a signature drink, you can order off a huge menu for a great variety of quality food. I’ve eaten everything from the omelet breakfast to burger baskets to steak dinners at FWR. Trust me, the chow is very good!

Did we mention FWR sports a full-scale ice fishing business, lodging options, a marina and a host of family-oriented options? Or that Fishermen’s Wharf Resort is also a summer mecca for fun? Or that it employs more than 20 people? One of the great parts of my job is visiting and experiencing all there is to offer on Mille Lacs. I can truly tell you that FWR is fun; it has great food; it's clean; and has a service staff that really enjoys serving, enhancing your experience.

FWR is a must-stop on the Mille Lacs to-visit list for Fun. To book your stay, fish house or party at FWR call 1-800-645-3693 or visit the links above. Help Toucan's name its mascot by posting ideas on the FWR Facebook page.

Article courtesy of Mike Wehking, MakeItMillelacs.com

Let the Countdown Begin!

2011-01-23T15:25:00.000-06:00

Five Fabulous weekends are ahead of us on Mille Lacs Lake

You'll find fun packed weekends for the whole family during these next five weekends. Along with great events you will find great places to stay from hotel/motel rooms to cozy cabins on the lake. Great places to eat including family restaurants, cafe's, bar/restaurant, steak houses and more! Or see what lady luck might bring you at Grand Casino Mille Lacs.

This coming weekend (January 29-30) kick off the Fab 5 at Fishermen's Wharf Annual Ice Fishing Contest. Rent a fish house from one of the local establishments or bring your own. Ice fishing not your thing how about Snowshoeing into the Past at Kathio State Park. Feast on All-U-Can-Eat Crab every Friday & Prime Rib every Saturday and Club XIX at Izatys.

Weekend Two (February 4-6) of the Fab 5 brings KJ's Ice Fishing Jam with pig roast and live entertainment at Club XIX at Izatys. Or how about Beginners Cross-Country Ski Lesson and Trail Tour at Kathio State Park. Oh and we can't forget Superbowl - many, if not all of our local bar/restaurants will have something going on!

Fab 5 Weekend Three (February 11-13) is the famous Arctic Blast. Bring your family and friends, ride snowmobile, meet Minnesota Viking players, drawings, specials - just down right fun for everyone! Blast Points include Buzzies on the Bay, Nitti's Hunters Point Resort, Castaways Resort, Blue Goose and Grand Casino Mille Lacs Events & Convention Center. Want something alittle on the quieter side, how about a Moonlight Ski at Kathio State Park.

Weekend Four (February 18-20) is jam packed with events. Fishing contests include the Ducks Unlimited Ice Fishing Contest and Nitti's Hunters Point Annual Perch & Pout Hunt. How about a Vintage Snowmobile Ride and Show in Isle or a Candlelight Ski at Father Hennepin State Park. On top of all this there's live entertainment at Grand Casino Mille Lacs, local meat raffles, happy hours and dinner specials.

The last of the Fabulous Five weekends (February 25-27) brings the Garrison Ice Race Weekend, Fire and Ice BBQ Contest at Buzzies on the Bay and the infamous PERCH EXTRAVAGANZA at Nitti's Hunters Point Resort!

Come every weekend or pick just one - either way there's something for everyone so come on up and FISH - PLAY - STAY! You'll be glad you did!

Always keep watch on the Mille Lacs Area Tourism Council Calendar of Events for area event listings, details and links.