One of the most difficult aspects of guiding is trying to predict fishing patterns. The art of knowing “when to be where.” This year has been particularly difficult since the lake conditions are the same as they were in February. The rivers are not being fueled by any lake run-off and the fishing is tough. I traveled up to Northern... READ MORE >
The ice fishing season for 2013 is winding down and the ice should be safe on the lakes for a while yet. Fishing regulations become confusing this time of year since walleyes, trout, and northern pike are still open—as long as you are on the right lake. Minne sota/ Ontar i o border lakes, such as Saganaga and Gunflint, are... READ MORE >
What a difference a year can make. We are nearing the first day of spring which is debatably either March 20 or the 21. I prefer the 20th since it is also my birthday, and the winter season is still booming. Last year we were fishing in T-shirts and this year we are fishing in heated shanties. The Gunflint Trail... READ MORE >
As I watch the snow falling from the kitchen window, I cannot help but wonder how long this season will last. It is a welcome sight that promises to keep us on the trails for a little while longer. Last year we were on the brink of open water, so I feel like we are now on borrowed time that... READ MORE >
The Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club hosted their annual Trout Derby on Gunflint Lake this past Sunday. It was a beautiful sunny day that looked much warmer than it really was. The attendance was great, despite the cold temperatures, and the lake trout were biting. I chose to fish a spot that was not too far away from the... READ MORE >
It seems that we all patiently awaited winter’s arrival this year and now it feels like it is coming to an end. The sun has been setting later each day while producing warmer temperatures as well. This is a perfect time to get the kids outside sledding and making snowmen in the wet and heavy snow. I have been fishing... READ MORE >
Presidents’ Day weekend was busy on the Gunflint Trail with cabin owners and vacationers traveling north for the holiday. This has always been a popular three-day weekend for many despite the possibility of treacherous February conditions. Rachelle was pleasantly surprised at this weekend’s attendance since she is a waitress at both Hungry Jack Lodge and Bearskin Lodge on Saturdays. It... READ MORE >
The Gunflint Trail can finally brag about the snow this week. It began falling Saturday evening and by Sunday morning we had 6-8 inches blanketing the ground. I had forgotten how nice it is to wake up to the aftermath of an overnight snowstorm. What a welcome sight. The snowmobile trails were in sad shape before this system hit but... READ MORE >
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is conducting a research project to better study the moose populations in our region. They are placing collars on 25 bull moose and 75 cows that will transmit information to the researchers such as: location, outside temperature, body temperature and possibly even the heart rate. This project will be the largest effort to... READ MORE >
Every year it seems to get a little tougher to catch walleyes on Saganaga Lake. My own history of guiding on this majestic body of water has confirmed the notion that things are definitely changing for the worse. The lake can still be a worthy producer at times but it has a reputation for being a hard safe to crack.... READ MORE >
