Winter in Cook County has long been coveted as the “locals’ season” for those who appreciate a brief reprieve from the mass of visitors each summer. Unfortunately, anyone seeking solitude this winter might have to wait for the rest of the state to turn white with snow before seeing any breaks in tourism.
It is hard to believe that parts of Minnesota are void of snow, but we are one of the few winter destinations for sled heads and skiers to enjoy a deep base of snow on the trails. The increase in economy is certainly welcome by local businesses, but it seems there will be little reprieve for residents who are seeking solitude if this weather pattern continues.
Chilly temperatures kept a few people in the bar longer than normal this week, and our fireplace/ glove and gator drier has been getting a workout. Helmets, gloves, and gators are hung above our fireplace like Christmas stockings while patrons take a break from the trails to grab a quick bite and a beer.
Deidre Kettunen with a 26″ walleye caught and released on a Lake Of The Woods ice fishing trip in a sleeper house.
Luckily the fresh smell of birch wood smoke helps mask the odor of head sweat permeating from helmets and face gators that are drying above the fireplace. It would be hard to stomach a burger if the restaurant smelled like a locker room.
Temperatures are supposed to drop even more this week with wind chill advisories dropping to minus 50. The Skyport Lodge Drag Races will be held this Saturday, the 26th and if the subzero predictions are true, it will be a cold day on the track.
I would much prefer a drop in the temperature to the almost traditional mid-winter meltdown we have seen the past few years. Neither scenario is fun to ride in, but at least with the cold spells we are not losing any snow.
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. You can also visit Cory’s website at Gunflintfishingguide.com.
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