The Fourth of July has become a nice time for me to take a few days’ vacation from guiding while celebrating our nation’s independence with my family at our Saganaga Lake cabin. Heading to Canada for the holiday might not seem very patriotic, but we celebrate the same way we would in the states (with bratwurst and sparklers) and besides, we are only a hundred yards from the border.
June is such a busy month for a fishing guide that I need a few days rest and relaxation, and summer has a tendency to slip by unnoticed if I do not spend enough time with my kids. The weather was perfect for swimming, and despite the cold water we all managed to get wet before the weekend came to an end. My time spent in the lake was more of necessity than entertainment, since the family voted that I needed to “freshen-up” on day three. The water temperature on the bigger lakes is still colder than I like, but it felt good and my family appreciated it as well.
The Gunflint Canoe Races are just around the corner, and will be held on the shoreline of Gunflint Lodge on July 20 at 4 p.m. The canoe races are the top summer event on the Gunflint Trail and are a lot of fun. There are numerous races that anyone can enter including the crowd pleasing gunnel pumping race, where contestants stand on the tip of the canoe and propel it forward by hopping up and down. It requires balance, rhythm, and a lot of luck.
Raffle tickets will be sold at the event for either general prizes donated by local business and residents, or the grand prize drawing for a Kevlar kayak that has been on display at Gunflint Lodge and Trail Center this week.
Food services will begin at 4:30 and all proceeds are raised for the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad.
Of all the events held in Cook County, the canoe races have always been my favorite. It gives the local outfitters a chance to show off their canoe skills, while raising money for a great organization. It has been a few years since I have actually participated in the races, but I do enjoy being a spectator.
Cory Christianson has worked as a fishing guide on the Gunflint Trail since 2000. If you have any fishing or wildlife reports or stories to share, send an email to:christiansoncory@hotmail.com or call 218- 388-0315. You can also visit Cory’s website at Gunflintfishingguide.com.
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