Woods & Water (267)
Fall fishing trip to northern Minnesota are always unpredictable. A couple of years ago, my son Brian and I made our annual October fishing/hunting trip to our cabin in northern Minnesota.
The weather was perfect with sunshine and highs in the low 60’s. This year however, things were totally different.
The temperatures struggled to get out of the 30s and rain mixed with snow coupled with strong winds was pretty much the weather for the majority of the week.
On Wednesday morning, the sun actually made an appearance as day broke over the lake. This was to be short-lived however, judging by the dark clouds that were on the horizon.
Savor the moment was the isim that popped into my head at that time. There was a thin layer of crusty ice covering everything and the fallen leaves that lay on the ground looked as if they had been frosted like cookies by Mother Nature herself.
I had filled the birdfeeders when we first arrived at the cabin. There were chickadees, sparrows, a pair of Blue jays and a woodpecker frequenting the feeders.
It is always enjoyable watching the different species of birds that come to feast on the black oil sunflower seeds. I have found this type of seed to be most popular in this part of the bird world.
Although the fishing thing was pretty much out of the question, there was plenty of inside work to be done on the cabin. In past years, Brian and I have fished in some pretty bad fall weather, but I guess that over time, a person either gets wiser or maybe just loses that need for adventure.
One fall, Brian and I took a late fall trip to my brother-in-law Ron’s cabin on Wabedo Lake. Ron was out of the country flying for Northwest Airlines, but he called us from Japan to tell us what time we needed to be on the lake to catch walleye.
It was so cold that we were only able to be on the lake for about two hours, before the fingers lost their feeling and we were chilled to the bone. After spending quite a few hours on the lake freezing, we had decided to call it a day.
Upon settling in for the night, the phone rang. It was Ron telling us that “now” was the time we needed to be on the lake.
It was pitch black, windy and cold, but we headed out to the spot that he had told us would be “hot” and spent about an hour and a half freezing and didn’t get so as much as a hit on our surefire lures.
Sure enough, Ron called the next morning to make sure that we had fished the night before. After a night of freezing and experiencing that exercise in futility, I decided that maybe a “little white lie” wouldn’t be a bad thing for the next time he called.
Looking back on some more memorable fall fishing trips, I can still feel the sting of corn snow hitting my face as a fall snow squall caught us off guard while crossing a lake. My old neighbor Gene and I had some memorable fall trips to Spider Lake.
During the trips we took were always in late September, we stayed in my pickup camper. I guess the fall colors and the chance of of catching that trophy fish, which is supposed to be greater in the fall, is what kept us fishing that time of year.
Although I did catch my own personal best walleye in late September on that lake, we never did hit the “mother lode” of fishing on those trips. Gene and I were pretty diehard fishermen in those days so we’d come off the lake long enough to warm up, eat a bite and it would be right back at it.
There are many good times to be had in the fall. Enjoying the colors and the wildlife are all part of that experience.
Fall fishing can also be very good, but it’s a little more unpredictable once the lakes turn over because the fish can scatter and you may find them anywhere. That is part of the challenge, but if you can find the baitfish, you will find the fish.
This summer’s patterns were actually a little out of the normal. With the warm water temperatures, a lot of fish were found suspended over deeper water than they were normally.
One little lake that we enjoy fishing for northern had fish suspended at 18-ft. in 70 ft. of water. This made trolling deep runners down the middle of the lake an effective method for catching big pike.
I am up at the cabin as I write this column. The sun is shining so I think I’ll have to take a break and head for the lake.
Who knows, maybe I can have a fish tale or two to share later.
Until next time, take a little time to enjoy the outdoors experience and the world of nature that surrounds us.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
The first half of this past week we probably experienced some of the nicest fall weather I can remember. Like good things it eventually had to come to an end..
The pelicans were still in the channel in full force along with quite a few white herons (egrets). This was quite a sight to see.
Speaking of sights to behold, while I was on my morning walk down Newton Street, I spotted a critter walking parallel to me trotting down the middle of the street.
After I did double take, I saw the white tip on its tail and realized it was a fox! I watched as the fox crossed in front of me and, seemingly in no particular hurry, disappeared into some trees and heavy brush between two houses.
On some of my walks in past years, I’ve seen not only the usual squirrels and rabbits, but also woodchucks and skunks. I’ve even had deer run across the road directly in front of me.
After all that, I’d have to say this is the first time I’ve encountered a fox, and it really took me by surprise.
The other morning, as I was driving out South Broadway, I spotted a red-tail hawk sitting in a cornfield just off of the road. It was a large and colorful adult.
Before I could finish savoring the moment, three wild turkeys ran across the road in front of me, close enough that I had to step on the brakes to avoid them. It’s pretty good when you can see so many of nature’s critters and not have to venture far from home.
The colors in most of the state are at their peak right now. It won’t be long before we will be bagging those colors we are now admiring. The days of burning leaves in the city are long gone.
Statewide you are allowed to burn with permit only or no burning at all in some counties. As dry as it has been in our area, we have been pretty lucky to have only a handful of fires. Be mindful of how dry it is because it wouldn’t take much to start another fire.
There are a few folks I know who look forward to fall each year with their sights set on “jumbo” perch (which seem to be pretty active right up to ice-over and shortly thereafter). For years, my Uncle Ben and a few friends would head to Winnie in search of those big perch.
For many years, I couldn’t figure out why you’d drive way up north to fish perch. In my younger days, I had a fixation with walleye and northern fishing and I always said, “I don’t sit around all winter dreaming about catching perch.”
That still hasn’t changed much, but after spending one October fall day catching some of those “jumbos,” I realized what it was all about.
After rowing our small boat out to the far edge of some cabbage weeds on our little lake, I commenced to fish and it wasn’t long before I had a very nice perch in the boat. I mean to tell you, it was a dandy! I had never caught one that big.
It was longer than my boot, and I’m sure it was at least a pound and a quarter if not more. I then commenced to boat about 28 of them in that range, keeping only eight to bring home for a fish fry and releasing the rest.
That’s when I realized what the fuss over fall perch fishing was all about. It had taken me way too many years, but I did finally figure it out.
Fishing in the fall can sometimes be feast or famine, but just spending time on the lake this time of year makes me feel like my stringer is always full. Another nice thing about fall fishing is that there are times when you are not sharing the lake with anyone; it is almost like you have your own private lake.
In October, you may share a more popular lake with some late season musky fishermen or the sound of gunshots may ring out as a flock of ducks or geese pass overhead. This time of year can be one of the most rewarding experiences of the open water season.
Although we never really look forward to winter, it is inevitable and, like it or not, it will be here before we know it. There are however, many opportunities for outdoors enjoyment to be had.
Topping the list for most sportsmen would probably be the “hard water” fishing season. It will be interesting to see what will happen this year with the water levels being what they are.
Although I’m not planning on building an ark any time soon, I hope that something (moisture) will happen to bring the water levels back up on our area lakes and streams.
The pheasant hunting season will open on October 13 and run through January 1. With the mild winter we experienced, I’d expect the outlook to be pretty good.
A mild winter followed by a warm spring contributed to a significant increase in Minnesota’s pheasant count, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
The pheasant population index increased 68 percent from 2011. Pheasant hunters are expected to harvest about 290,000 roosters this fall. That’s up from last year’s estimated harvest of 204,000, but roughly half the number taken during the 2005-2008 seasons when hunting was exceptionally good.
“While the 2012 increase reflects movement in a positive direction, the counts still remain 51 percent below the 10-year average,” said Kurt Haroldson, the DNR biologist who compiled the survey.
Until next time, take a little time to enjoy the outdoors experience and the world of nature that surrounds us.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms we have today.
As I drove to Blue Earth to watch my grandson Dylan’s football game, the farmers were out in full force busily combining beans. The countryside is painted a golden brown this time of year and, along with the trees changing colors, it is truly a picture worthy of an artist’s brush.
Taking a drive in the country in the fall can be rewarding and it always gives me that special feeling which I seem to experience each year at about this time. Although I don’t do very much hunting these days, this is always a special time of year for me.
The archery season for deer is now open along with the waterfowl hunting season. If you venture north a ways, you can be treated to some grouse hunting, which can be enjoyed on many of the Wildlife Management Areas in Northern Minnesota.
We actually have access to a total of eleven WMAs right here in Freeborn County that are there for the public to enjoy.
Quite a few years ago, my oldest son Brian asked me if I wanted to ride along with him to the Bricelyn/Frost area and check out a couple of the places he bow hunted. That beautiful crisp fall day, I definitely could see what would make a person enjoy sitting in a tree for hours just waiting for a deer to come by.
When Brian and I first decided to look for some land in Northern Minnesota, we spent most of a summer looking for that right spot and one we could both like. The land we bought was on a little lake and was actually the first place we visited.
As we drove down the easement drive to the property for the first time, we were greeted by a deer standing on the edge of the drive right in front of us. As soon as I noticed the deer, the thought flashed through my mind (this will be the place) because the look on Brian’s face said it all.
We continued to look at other places, but in the end, kept coming back to this one. I guess it’s a sportsman’s version of love at first sight. (We are located on a lake that was not supposed to have fish in it, but there are plenty of sunnies and crappies to be had).
Brian has yet to do any bow hunting up there, but both he and his boys hunt ducks and grouse each fall when they spend a few October days at the cabin. A couple of years ago, Trevor, my oldest grandson, even built a deer stand on our land.
So far no one has used it. I have a feeling that if it doesn’t have feathers, Trevor isn’t interested.
There are grouse on our property and on the adjoining state land which surrounds our property. Brian and the boys spend a few hours each week walking the woods in search of grouse.
They have gotten a few in the last couple of years. I too have sighted quite a few over the summer months; hunting looks to be pretty good this October.
A couple years ago, I broke down and bought a single shot 20 gauge just to have at the cabin. I have been asked why a single shot? First of all, it was fairly inexpensive (cheap) and with my cat-like reflexes, if I don’t hit something on the first shot, I more than likely won’t hit it at all.
Brian and I will be heading to the cabin for a week in October. Who knows, he may even be able to talk the old man into walking one of the many public trails that are available in the area. If that happens — although I’m no Quickdraw McGraw — I’ll be carrying my trusty 20 gauge hoping to make my one shot count. Just spending time with Brian fishing and walking the woods at this time of the year is really what it’s all about.
— — —
The Minnesota DNR issued the following news release promoting grouse hunting in the state:
Grouse Hunting
There’s more to Minnesota than 10,000 lakes. Try 11 million acres of public hunting land, 528 designated hunting areas in the ruffed grouse range covering nearly 1 million acres, 43 designated ruffed grouse management areas and 600 miles of hunter trails.
Minnesota offers some of the best grouse hunting in the country. Even in down years of the grouse population’s boom-and-bust cycle, hunters in other states still envy our flush rates and hunter success rates remain high.
What you’ll need
Not counting a sturdy pair of boots, a blaze orange hat and vest and a shotgun, all you need to hunt grouse in Minnesota is a valid game license.
Hunters seeking woodcock must be HIP-certified (done when you purchase your Minnesota license) but do not need state or federal migratory bird stamps. Shotguns may not hold more than three shells unless a plug is used.
If you’re not on your home turf, you’ll need a place to stay, something to eat and a souvenir or two. Communities such as Grand Rapids, Ely, Duluth and Bemidji offer a wealth of options.
— — —
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
The weather just gets a little more fall-like each day and that is all right with me. However, the dry conditions in northwestern and north central Minnesota have prompted the Minnesota DNR to issue burning restrictions on some counties.
And, because fire danger is high to very high across major portions of the state due to continued drought conditions, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) initiated burning restrictions in northwestern and north-central Minnesota, beginning at 1 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 23.
The counties having limitations placed on camp fires and open burning include: Becker, Beltrami, Benton, Cass (north of Highway 200), Clearwater, Douglas, Hubbard, Kanabec, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, Roseau, Stearns, Todd and Wadena.
Please use caution when camping not only in these counties but elsewhere in the state. Locally, there are no burning permits being issued at this time due to the extremely dry conditions. Using a little common sense can go a long way towards preventing a disastrous situation.
I have to admit the condition of some of our area lakes have made it less than appealing for me to want to fish them. I do know that northern fishing on Fountain Lake has actually been very good; even with the die-off that occurred during the hot summer.
I have also heard that the panfish have been a little sporadic lately. I look for bass fishing to be pretty good now through the fall for those that choose to seek them out.
I am planning to do a little fishing on Fountain Lake in the next few weeks to take advantage of the anticipated good fall fishing. I really do think that the bass fishing on Fountain Lake is one of the better kept secrets of the area. It’s been said many times that when water levels are low, the fishing will be better than in normal years.
The low water levels we are experiencing in area lakes have a lot of sportsmen anticipating the worst-case scenario for the upcoming winter months. If we don’t get a substantial amount of rain in the next couple of months, there may be a freeze-out on many of these lakes.
After all the work that has been done by the DNR and the local Watershed Board to improve the water quality of the lakes in our area, it is hard to watch the water levels go down and the threat of freeze outs loom.
On a lighter note, the thought of fall fishing always makes me feel invigorated and excited about the sport, almost as much as the arrival of spring. I am looking forward to a few days on the lake just taking in the fall colors and maybe even reeling in a fish or two.
I had a good friend whose son went bass fishing on Lake Francis as soon as the first hard frost occurred. He used frogs and casted them to the top of the lily pads and then “plopped” them off as if the frog was jumping on its own.
He caught more than one bass in the 5-lb. range using this technique. I am actually talking (writing) myself into hitting the water as soon as possible.
When fall rolls around I no longer have my grandson Trevor to lean on as a fishing partner. This time of year, he is all about waterfowl and, with the opening of duck hunting, he will be nowhere to be found. I have to say he is a real sportsman because if he isn’t hunting, he is out scouting for his next hunting spot.
I look at this as a good thing and can only wish that more of our youth would get involved in the outdoors. I do think that I have seen more young folks fishing our area lakes this summer than I have for quite a few years. These are the folks that will carry the torch, so to speak, for the next generations.
Without the younger folks getting involved and caring for the outdoors these sports as we know and enjoy them today will slowly disappear. This is why it is good to encourage our youth to go hunting and to take the firearms safety courses to learn the right way to do it.
There is an old phrase ”we’re all in this together” and when it comes to the outdoors, it couldn’t be anymore true. Whether you enjoy watching waterfowl and shooting them with a camera or actually enjoy the hunt for game, we need to preserve what we have.
I can’t say enough good about all of the local organizations that do what they can to support the sports of hunting and fishing. By holding fundraisers and educating future hunters and fishers about those sports, they are doing their part to preserve our outdoors heritage for the future generations.
Until next time, enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and maybe wet a line while you’re at it.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the great freedoms that we have today.
Fall is in the air! It’s time to think about hunting as the small game.
Archery seasons are now open, so it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the outdoors with the many different hunting opportunities that will be available to us.
Looking back to my days as a youth, I don’t have many memories of doing any actual hunting until I was a teen. Pheasant hunting was the only hunting I did that didn’t involve my Daisy Red Ryder BB gun. 0
When hunting with my trusty BB gun, I of course never hunted anything that was actually considered game. Usually none of the critters that were afoot or in flight had any need to worry when me and “Old Red” were on the prowl.
I can remember waiting for summer vacation so that I could do anything (within reason) I wanted for almost three whole months. The first couple of weeks of my summer vacation were spent anxiously awaiting the arrival of my first copy of the Weekly Reader.
I didn’t get much mail (I was a kid) so I’d be patiently waiting for the mailman to drive up to our mailbox just hoping that he’d have that mail that was just for me.
I guess like most kids, after a couple of weeks of summer vacation, I would get bored. But, there were ways to solve that little problem.
Does anyone remember a game called stretch, or did we just make that one up? Roger, the oldest kid in our neighborhood came up with this game where you had to stand in one place and throw a knife so it would stick in the ground. You’d then move one foot out so it touched the knife while keeping the other foot in place.
The one that had the longest stretch would win. You could do as many sticks as you dared in order to extend your leg.
If we got caught by one of the “warden moms,” the knives would be confiscated and the party was over unless a butter knife was snuck out of the kitchen drawer.
I don’t think we ever figured out why Roger, who was older and taller always won at that game.
Do you know how smart a guy must have looked when he stabbed himself in the foot with a butter knife? Boy that hurt!
There are a few sayings that I used to hear while growing up that most kids today wouldn’t have a clue as to the meaning. Most of these are phrases that I heard used by the adults (mainly my mother).
A few weeks ago, we had what is called a Blue Moon, which is two full moons in the same month. And because that is rare, the phrase “once in a blue moon” was more than likely derived from that.
Have you ever had to toe the line? Are you worth your salt? Have you ever taken someone under your wing or worked on something until the cows came home?
I can remember the saying go to bed with the chickens and don’t let the bed bugs bite. At one time or another, we have all gotten up at the crack of dawn or gone on a wild goose chase and, when you didn’t have much to say, someone would undoubtedly ask you if the cat had gotten your tongue?
This would sometimes be followed by a penny for your thoughts, which isn’t much in today’s money market. If you had found some lint somewhere or a dust ball that was called “roosk.”
You could have as many of something as Carters had little liver pills. If you were trying to achieve a great feat, you were attempting to make your mark and, someone may have told you that you were a chip off the old block.
You could be fit as a fiddle and cuter than a bug’s ear, but if someone told you that you were full of beans, it could make you madder than a wet hen.
Small game hunting big opportunity for new hunters
Minnesota small game hunting seasons are an ideal way for friends and families to get outdoors and discover the opportunities Minnesota has to offer, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Small game hunting started on Saturday, Sept. 15, when the season for ruffed grouse, rabbit and squirrel began.
“Small game season is a forgotten pleasure,” said Mike Kurre, DNR mentoring program coordinator. “With nothing more than a small caliber rifle or shotgun, a bit of patience and some blaze orange, Minnesota’s fields and forests are there to be explored and enjoyed.”
Small game hunting is inexpensive. Youth licenses (age 15 and under) are free and those for 16 and 17 year olds are just $12.50, a discount from the standard license price of $19.
Hunters must meet firearms safety requirements or obtain an apprentice hunter validation and go afield with a licensed hunter. Minnesota’s apprentice hunter validation program enables those who need but have not completed firearms safety training to hunt under prescribed conditions designed to ensure a safe hunt.
“Once you’re in the field, careful observation of wildlife habits and a bit of stealth will begin to give small game hunters the experience they need,” Kurre said.
— — —
Until next time, hunt safe and always try to take a little time out of your busy day to enjoy the outdoors experience.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the great freedoms that we have today.
This past week, I have been spending time at our cabin in the north woods and am enjoying every moment of it. I actually headed north to work on the cabin and hopefully get in a little fishing. Mission accomplished!
I finished the work that I had planned on doing and still found the time to relax. I am actually writing this column from that little piece of heaven in the woods.
I don’t think there is anything more relaxing than watching various birds busily go about their business and filling their bellies. We now have five chipmunks that are also regulars at the feeders; there were originally only three, but two more have now joined the festivities.
The last two are no doubt young ones because they still don’t quite understand the concept. One in particular figured out how to get onto the feeder after a few failed attempts and falls to the ground.
I am sure the critter was pretty proud of that accomplishment. Unfortunately it had no clue as to how to get off of said feeder.
While on the deck, I heard a small “thump” and spotted the little guy on the ground shaking its head. After that I watched as it once again mounted the feeder.
When it had finished loading its cheeks, it jumped off and made another thump as it hit the ground. I think it took about two days for him to figure out that jumping to the tree was a much less painful way to dismount. Even so, he still manages to fall off from time to time.
There is a lot to be said about just relaxing and watching nature. On the second night after I had gone to bed, I awoke to a noise by the feeder.
When I looked out, I could see the silhouette of a raccoon on the branch above the feeder, trying to open the lid. It sensed my presence and took off down the hill.
On the second night, I was just too tired to hear anything. So in the morning, I discovered that the critter had slid the glass up and off one side of the feeder and emptied it without breaking anything.
I have to give that coon credit for being pretty smart. The last time that I saw said coon, he was at the feeder with a much larger coon. Apparently, he had to bring Dad along to show him the dumb human that keeps feeding him.
I was determined to “outsmart” that coon, so with one of the feeders almost empty, I decided to put the other one in the back of the pickup safe from harm’s way. I have to admit that I was feeling pretty brilliant, as he wasn’t about to open that topper.
But, when I awoke in the morning, I found that the joke was once again on me. It seems that a mouse had found its way into the back of the pickup during the night and helped itself to most of the black oil sunflower seeds that seem to be the favorite of almost all critters that live in the Northwoods.
During the week, I spent some time fishing on a couple of my favorite lakes. One lake that is only a couple of miles down the road is a very good northern lake. It didn’t disappoint.
After going through an assortment of lures in my tackle box, I finally stumbled onto the right combination of colors, pink and white to be exact. I proceeded to catch a couple of small pike at first.
Then I caught one that wasn’t huge by any stretch of the imagination, but it was about 23-inches long and very thick. I immediately thought “supper” because I was really getting tired of hotdogs.
There is nothing better than fish fresh out of the lake and into the skillet with some fried potatoes on the side. This one fish was larger than I had estimated. I will be bringing the rest home to share with Jean.
I can’t express the feeling that I get while spending time in the woods on a late summer day, where even those warm days give a hint of what’s to come. There are subtle hints of fall as the maple and aspen are already turning color.
I always have mixed feelings when I embrace the onset of fall, which is my favorite season. It’s hard to describe the warm feeling I get, as I watch Mother Nature splash the forests and adjoining countryside with a multitude of colors. I also feel a little sadness when I realize that fall signals the end to another summer season.
I guess that is what they mean when they say someone is in the autumn of their years. Oh well, I know that I’ll be making at least one more trip to the cabin in October to enjoy the woods and lakes another time before I call it a year.
While fishing on one of my favorite lakes this past week, I reflected on how lucky I was to be there sitting in my small fishing boat (which seems to be my favorite boat to fish from lately, especially when I am fishing alone). I think it makes me feel more like I am one with nature, as it has no depth finder and the only fish finder is what is sitting in my old brown tackle box.
That box is actually one that my Mom and Dad had given to Brian on his birthday one year. Eventually, he got a new one and I claimed his old brown one and although I have bigger and supposedly better ones now, I still use this one most of the time.
If you ever fished with me you’d wonder how I could ever possibly get that much stuff into that small an area.
It’s much like cleaning out the garage – I was looking for one of these about thirty years ago, so I’d better hang onto it. I know that the old brown tackle box holds more than fishing tackle; it’s also full of many good memories.
Until next time, take a little time to step back and take in some of the wonders that nature has to show us.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the great freedoms that we have today.
I usually try my best to take an early morning walk each day, weather and time permitting. I try to leave the house a little after 6 a.m.
On my walk, I usually venture past the access by Frank Hall Park. In the last couple of weeks, there have been large numbers of pelicans in the channel like I have never seen before.
The ironic part is that they are hanging around the Pelican Breeze II, which is docked by the access. It almost seems like they are supposed to be there because that boat is there.
I know the reality of it is that they are looking for food. Evidently, there are plenty of fish for them in the channel at this time.
So, if you haven’t already done so, you should take some time to stop by the channel early in the morning to see the large number of birds. This is truly a natural wonder that nature has on display for our enjoyment.
While you’re at it, you might want to take your camera along; it makes for quite a picture. I can’t ever recall seeing that many pelicans in one place on this lake.
It seems the pelicans have replaced the geese that inhabited this area earlier in the year. I suppose the geese were probably off somewhere getting ready for early goose season which opened this weekend.
Another thing about the pelicans that I really like is that you don’t have to watch where you step while walking.
We really do need to have some fall moisture, and I hope will come in the form of rain. In case you have had blinders on and haven’t noticed most of the area, ponds and creeks are either dried up or slowed down to a trickle.
The fish kill that we have experienced this summer due to low water levels and extreme heat have to make a person wonder what lies ahead this winter. If the water levels continue to decline, I will bet that there will surely be some winter kill on more than one of our area lakes.
It’s kind of thought provoking when you think about how much control we really have when it comes to nature. All the studies and all the tests of water quality that have been done don’t really matter when the lakes, streams and rivers start drying up. Nature even had a hand in delaying the Republican National Convention, although Rush Limbaugh is convinced that President Obama must have had something to do with it.
— — —
Addition of nearly 6,000 acres to WMAs adds opportunity
Minnesota’s hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and wildlife populations will benefit from the recent addition of 5,778 acres to the state’s wildlife management area (WMA) system, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Much of this newly protected land is in the southern half of the state. It includes an expansion of 17 WMAs and the addition of six new WMAs.
Many areas will be open for public use when the fall hunting seasons start in September. The remainder will be ready later this year or early next year for public use. WMAs are open to public hunting and other compatible uses such as hiking, bird watching and snowshoeing.
DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr thanked Pheasants Forever, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Cass County, The Trust for Public Land, Minnesota Sharp-Tailed Grouse Society and Ducks Unlimited for their partnership in protecting more than half of these acres.
“Partners are the key to conservation,” said Landwehr. “We appreciate the help of these groups, our sportsmen for the legacy they leave for future generations of hunters and wildlife enthusiasts.”
Nearly 1,500 acres were purchased with funding from the Outdoor Heritage Fund, one of four funds created by the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, which receives one-third of the money raised by the state sales tax increase approved by Minnesota citizens in 2008.
According to Kim Hennings, DNR wildlife land acquisition coordinator, other major funding sources were the Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM) Critical Habitat Matching program and the $6.50 surcharge on the small game license.
Most of the RIM matching dollars came from the sale of the critical habitat license plates. The $30 per year charge for the colorful plates generates more than $3 million a year that can be used to equally match private donations to acquire or develop critical habitat in the state.
“Most of the designated lands are additions to existing WMAs, complementing our previous investment in wildlife habitat,” said Ed Boggess, DNR fish and wildlife division director. “The new WMAs will expand opportunities for hunting and trapping.”
Until next time, take a little time to enjoy the outdoors experience and the world of nature that surrounds us.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
It seems like it was just yesterday when I was anticipating the onset of summer and now it is already winding down. We are experiencing what is considered typical August weather; warm sunny days and nice cool nights. I just don’t think that it gets much better than that!
This past week, I had a chance to spend some time at the cabin with my sister Judy, brother-in-law Mike and their granddaughter Lexi. We were treated to some great weather and the fishing wasn’t all that bad either.
We have tried to make this an annual event for at least the last few years. I did discover that Lexi really likes fishing and the whole outdoors experience.
While at the cabin, she took the paddle boat out by herself and did some fishing on our lake. Lexi has learned a lot about the outdoors experience by camping with grandpa and grandma and going to Rendezvous with Grandpa Mike.
The fish in our lake seem to have gotten smaller with each passing year, but they are still fun to catch. And, there is always a chance that you will catch some table fare.
Although we didn’t keep many of the fish, we did keep enough for one meal and, I might add, it was mighty tasty. Judy likes to fish, but even more-so, she just enjoys spending time in the outdoors and taking it all in.
Both her and Mike think along those lines when it comes to enjoying the outdoors. I guess I’ve always believed that it’s not just about the fishing but the whole outdoors experience.
Fishing in August is sometimes a challenge, but the fish are usually more than willing to cooperate. This time was no exception.
My fish locator decided to take a separate vacation this time. In other words, it decided to quit working. This meant fishing the old fashioned way again and I have no problem with that.
Fishing lakes that you are familiar with makes it easier to fish without a locator. I didn’t even have to revert back to the old marking the anchor rope trick on this trip, but the thought did enter my mind for a fleeting moment.
This time of the year it is pretty easy to follow the weed line, especially if you are familiar with an area and know the approximate depth. A lot of the lakes in the area have steep drops so you can be 10-ft. from lily pads or reeds and be in 20 foot of water.
The bass were hanging out along the weed edges while the northern were in a little deeper water. I even managed to catch a nice walleye on a clown colored Rapala Husky Jerk, which is my grandson Trevor’s favorite color for the particular lake that we were fishing.
Live and artificial bait seemed to produce about the same results. There are times though when I feel live bait will out fish artificial.
But, I really think that a lot of that has to do with being in your comfort zone. It was a good trip north enjoying memorable times spent with family.
Locally crappie and sunnies are being caught in the area of Edgewater bay. One local fisherman said that the crappies are in the 8-9 inch range which can make for some good table fare.
So until next time, grab your tackle and head to the lake because there’s still plenty of fishing to be done. Plus it’s just another great way to enjoy the outdoors.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
— — —
DNR encourages hunters to apply early for deer permits, wolf licenses
Hunters who have yet to apply for an either-sex deer permit or wolf hunting and trapping licenses are encouraged to do so well before the Thursday, Sept. 6, deadline.
Nearly half of the state’s deer permit areas now are lottery areas, which means hunters must apply for and be selected to receive a permit that allows them to shoot antlerless deer in lottery areas.
Because many of these areas – focused in the northwestern, north-central and a portion of northeastern Minnesota – have not been lottery areas for years, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) strongly recommends that hunters check to ensure the area where they hunt has not become a lottery area.
Hunters already have applied for more than half of the licenses available in each of the three wolf hunting seasons to be conducted this fall and winter. Applying early allows time for hunters to gather information needed for applications.
Current and up-to-date information is available online at www.mndnr.gov/hunting/deer and www.mndnr.gov/hunting/wolf.
It’s been a long hot summer (sounds like a good name for a movie), but we have managed to survive. We are lucky to live in a community that is surrounded by lakes and so many nice parks for our enjoyment.
There is a lot to be said about spending a little time in the outdoors on a hot summer day. Can you remember the last time that you sought relief from the summer heat by sitting in the shade of a tree while a gentle breeze wipes the sweat from your brow? I have found that although I appreciate the convenience of air conditioning, I still enjoy spending time outdoors in the heat of the summer.
A couple of weeks ago, I was enjoying a day of babysitting my granddaughter Emma. She really loves spending time playing in the outdoors, whether it be watering grandma’s flowers, playing in the dirt or jumping in a puddle of water. She likes it all.
It was pretty warm on that particular day, but there was a nice breeze. So, we took a couple of lawn chairs and sat in the shade to enjoy that breeze.
Although she is only three years old, she loves to talk and can carry on a conversation like she is much older. I have to be on my toes because she definitely has plenty of questions and wants an answer to each one.
Emma usually stays busy and likes to be doing something all the time. But, on this day, she was content to sit with Grandpa and talk, stopping once in a while to ask grandpa to “tickle me,” which is something she likes. The shade, a nice breeze and the constant conversation with my granddaughter made this a great day.
There is still plenty of nice weather left to get out and enjoy one of our many area parks. Years ago, we would spend time at pioneer Park when there wasn’t much there.
In fact, I can remember going there as a kid with my mom and dad. There would usually be a special occasion involved like my folk’s anniversary or Mothers Day.
When we went to Pioneer Park for a picnic, a favorite treat of mine was Maid Rites. Mom would whip up a batch of her never to be duplicated potato salad. We also opened up a can of Van Camps beans.
Now, to me, that was real living back then because we very seldom ever ate out. I have to wonder does anyone even go on picnics anymore? It seems like the days of the old wicker picnic basket, the checkerboard table cloth and picnic plates have gone the way of the Edsel.
As I grew older and was allowed to ride my bike to town during summer vacation, I had one main purpose – fish! I can remember the first time I caught a bass in Fountain Lake.
While fishing at Pioneer Park, I decided to slip a worm on a hook with a bobber. I had just cast it out under the branches of a willow tree that were hanging over the water.
About that same time, a speedboat went cruising by and as the waves bounced my bobber up and down, it suddenly disappeared. At first, I thought it had just snagged bottom causing it to be pulled under, which happens occasionally when fishing too deep.
As I began reeling it in, I realized that there was a nice fish on the other end and it had no plans of ending up on the dinner table. After following the fish along the shoreline, I finally landed it with the help of my friend Pat Smith.
The fish turned out to be about a 2-1/2 lb. smallmouth bass. I continued to fish after I had put the fish on my stringer, but the excitement of my “big” catch was too much so Pat and I decided to head home.
I hung the stringer from the handle bar on my bike and backtracked so that I could ride past the Northside Creamery (Dairy Bar) on the way out on Bridge Avenue. I made sure that the fish would be seen by as many people as possible.
Catching that bass was probably the highlight of the summer for me because I had never caught a bass in Fountain Lake before. I had no idea that there were even any smallmouths in the lake.
I have no picture of the fish because in those days picture taking was for family events and special occasions. This evidently was neither. No picture is really necessary, as long as I have the memory of a good day spent fishing with an old friend.
— — —
With all the outdoor facilities that we have at our disposal, there are those that choose to use and abuse them. We have the basketball courts by the pool where people play ball and then leave their trash behind.
The thing that bothers me most about this is that there are trash receptacles within 10 feet of the strewn garbage. Another thing is fast food.
How many times have you seen drink containers or garbage from a fast food place laying in the street or left in a park not far from a trash can.
We need to take pride in our community and do our part to keep it looking clean. I am sure that the park and rec. workers don’t look at cleaning up after someone as a job opportunity.
I don’t even want to imagine what these peoples homes must look like if they treat their parks this way.
— — —
Until next time, enjoy the outdoors and take a little time to share the experience with our youth.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
As summer works its way toward fall I’m sure that a lot of folks, including myself, are looking forward to cooler temperatures. I know that as Minnesotans we have certain “whining rights” when it come so the weather, but as long as we choose to live here we will always have something to start a conversation with. How many times this summer have you heard this one? Is it warm enough for you? Another great question is: are you staying cool? Then there is the I don’t mind the heat but it’s the humidity that I don’t like – now that’s a great ice breaker (pun intended).
I spend a fair amount of time traveling north during the summer and occasionally I will take a moment to look back on my younger days and reflect on those times. On one such trip I noticed a sign that had three words on it and it reminded me of what has often been referred to as those three little words. On this day those three little words read “Road Work Ahead” and they can be seen on just about every road that you travel. I spent last weekend driving through Iowa to Galena, Illinois for a wedding where I am sure those three original little words were spoken. While I was able to see the new three words time and time again, it made me wonder if there is any significance to the number three when making a road sign. Let’s face it – there is prepare to stop followed by left (or right) lane closed, reduced speed ahead, and on it goes. For many years we Minnesotans have gone under the assumption that we were the only ones suffering from constructionitis when in all actuality our neighbors are in the same boat as us.
As we venture further on towards the end of summer and move on to fall I can’t help but feel that summer has gone by all too fast. There were quite a few days when the temperatures made it pretty hard to want to spend a lot of time outdoors. Looking back to my younger days (again) I have to wonder how I ever survived without air conditioning. I can remember going to the Northside Creamery (Dairy Bar) on a hot summer day for an ice cream treat and occasionally a worker would walk out of the cooler and I’d feel that rush of cold air and think wow, I wish I could take that home.
We actually did manage to survive those days without air conditioning and I think that having experienced those times actually makes us appreciate what we have today and not just take it for granted. I don’t really know how old I was when I quit calling a refrigerator an ice box but I can remember what one looked like because my grandpa and grandma had one. The Albert Lea Ice House was a place where you could buy ice by the block. I think that it sat at about the same place that Godfather’s is today. I have an ice pick that came from the Albert Lea Ice House with its name inscribed on the handle. I can still see my grandpa shoveling coal into the furnace and when the “coal man” came he would dump the coal down a coal chute that emptied into a coal bin in the basement.
We have come a long way since those days that some of us refer to as “the good old days,” but those times weren’t always easy and everything wasn’t there at the tip of your fingers. We had no TV, Internet, Smart phones or IPods, just movies and the radio. At the movies you’d see newsreels of the most important events of the week and I can still see my grandpa sitting in his chair on Saturday night listening to Gunsmoke on the radio. I was at my grandparents’ house when I first heard the song “How Much is That Doggy in the Window?” It’s funny how some things stick in your mind. Yes, times were harder and day-to-day living was a lot more work, but those days were also a lot simpler and I believe that in a lot of ways that’s what made them “the good old days”.
— — —
Deer licenses now on sale; lottery applications due Sept. 6
Deer hunting licenses are now available for purchase. Hunters who want an either-sex deer or special hunt permit for the coming season must apply by Thursday, Sept. 6, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Hunters should carefully review the list of lottery areas; because many of these permit areas have not been lottery areas for a significant period of time. Currently, 58 of the state’s 127 permit areas are lottery areas.
Many of these areas, focused in the northwest, north central and a portion of northeast Minnesota, were designated lottery areas in response to hunter desire to see higher deer populations.
People can purchase a deer license and apply for the lottery or a special hunt at any DNR license agent, by telephone at 888-665-4236 or www.mndnr.gov/buyalicense>online. Lottery winners will be notified in October.
Hunters can apply for lottery deer areas and special hunts using both their firearm and muzzleloader licenses. Although a hunter can be selected for both licenses, successful applicants still can only take one deer. In the case of special hunts, a person may draw both a firearm and muzzleloader permit, in which case they must adhere to the bag limits established by each special hunt.
Lottery deer areas in 2012 are permit areas 103, 108, 110, 118, 119, 122, 169, 171, 172, 183, 184, 197, 199, 234, 235, 237, 238, 250, 251, 252, 253, 258, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 294, 295, 296, 297, 298 and 299.
The DNR encourages hunters to review new deer hunting regulations, permit area designations and boundary changes before applying. Current and up-to-date information is available online at www.mndnr.gov/regulations/hunting.
— — —
Until next time, enjoy the outdoors and take a little time to teach a kid about fishing and he’ll be hooked for life.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
More...
If you are a fisherman and have lived in Minnesota most of your life, you have undoubtedly heard the phrase “Dog Days” when referring to fishing in August. There is even the “old wives tale” that says the northern lose their teeth in August which was undoubtedly used to explain the slow fishing that we usually experience during the last days of summer.
There is actually no scientific evidence to support this theory. The lack of fish activity is more than likely due to the hot summer days and warm water temperatures.
I for one have always seemed to be able to catch fish in August; maybe just not the numbers that you see in early summer and spring. I recall many years when the boys were young that the only weeks available to me for a vacation were in August.
I actually found that it was a perfect time of the year for a family vacation because there weren’t as many people around. Typically, we camped at Spider Lake north of Grand Rapids where we enjoyed many great experiences.
I found that fishing in August was a little more of a challenge if you were seeking walleye. But then again, our family has never been “locked in” on one species.
I found out early on that if you want to catch fish, you have to go for what is biting at the time. More than one time time, our resort owner, who everyone called “Bid” would tell other folks that “Herfindahl always comes in with fish and always goes home with his share.”
Bid was a little bit of a truth-stretcher at times, but he always had a way of pumping a fellow up for the next time out on the lake.
After he had sold his part of the resort to his daughter and son-in-law, I vacationed there when he and his wife came back to visit. In all the years that I‘d known him, I can recall the times that I came off the lake not having had very good luck. But after talking to him for a few minutes, I couldn’t wait to hit the lake again.
I had a chance to sit and talk with him that year. During said converstaion, I told him that even though I knew he was just feeding me a line, it always seemed to work.
I think that the key for me was just spending time on the water. If you put in the time, you will usually be rewarded.
I had a person ask me just last week after I had just returned from a recent trip north if I had caught many walleyes. I replied, “No but that was probably because they are not what I usually fish for.”
Our family has always fished northern or bass and crappies. Of course we fish walleye too, but I have never measured a successful fishing trip by the number of walleye that I have boated. That may be due, in part, to the fact that I have probably never been a good walleye fisherman, nor have I devoted a lot of hours to catching them.
My Uncle Ben had the greatest influence on me growing up when it came to fishing. My Mother, who also loved to fish, was my first mentor when I was just a little guy.
Uncle Ben took me fishing “up north.” We fished for walleye early in the morning and in the evening, but the rest of the day was devoted to northern or panfish.
This is how I learned to fish as a kid and it is pretty much the way I like to fish today. I think the key to making fishing an enjoyable experience is to fish for what’s biting. This is especially important when teaching young kids about fishing.
I will never claim to be an expert fisherman nor even a good one for that matter. But, I do love the sport and enjoy sharing what I can with the kids and grandkids.
The key to me is just going fishing whether it is for carp in a “crick” or northern in a lake. As long I am fishing, it’s all good.
Getting back to the “dog days” I really feel that August can offer some excellent fishing opportunities. There have been many instances where I have caught walleyes in August. Usually, they are found lurking in the weeds.
In August, the days are still warm but the evenings and nights can be cool and comfortable. I don’t know how many mornings I awoke only to find a thick blanked of fog covering the lake.
I spent many an August morning on Spider Lake feeling my way through the fog to a spot that I felt was safe from other boats but also still be holding fish. Yes, fishing during the “dog days” can be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding experience.
In the years that we camped, August always represented the end of summer fishing and camping because a new school year was looming just over the horizon. I can still remember the feeling I would get as a kid after the fair had come and gone; it was semi-sweet because one part of me was anxious to see what the school year would bring, but mostly I was sad to see summer winding down.
— — —
A few things to keep in mind for the upcoming hunting season:
Youth Small Game Hunts
Take a Kid Hunting Weekend September 24-25. During Take-A Kid-Hunting Weekend adult residents accompanied by a youth under age 16 may hunt small game without a license, but must comply with open seasons, limits and other regulations.
Youth Waterfowl Day
Waterfowl information will be announced through news releases and in the Waterfowl Hunting Synopsis, available in mid August.
Youth Mentored Upland Bird Hunt
October 22. Partnering with Pheasants Forever, Woodcock Minnesota, and Ruffed Grouse Society, the DNR is offering mentored upland bird hunts designed to introduce youth to upland bird hunting. All hunting regulations apply. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 7 online at: mndnr.gov/discover
— — —
Until next time, grab your tackle and do a little fishing because there’s still plenty of summer left. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
This past week I had the pleasure of spending some time up north with two of my grandsons: Trevor, my oldest grandson and Dylan, Trevor’s cousin. The boys went north with Grandpa for a few days to do some fishing. The weather was good and the fishing wasn’t too bad either.
I had my sights set on visiting Spider Lake for a day and was excited about seeing my old fishing hole again. At least once a year I try to re-visit the lake that we had spent so many vacations at when my boys were growing up. I think that we all had visions of muskies dancing in our heads but that was not to be on this trip. We didn’t see any of those “toothed ones” that day so we had to settle for grandpa pointing out different places on the lake that he had caught them or had seen one caught in the past. I am pretty sure that after about an hour of me pointing out those different spots they were both ready to make their own muskie memories.
The slot limit for northern pike on Spider is everything between 24 and 36 must go back and only one fish over 36” can be kept. On this particular day we did catch a lot of fish and they were either too small or too big to keep. Trevor did catch a nice fat 23-inch pike that we could have kept but he opted to let it swim for another day. I had mentioned to Trevor that I hadn’t seen as many smallmouth as in years past, so just about a half our later he landed a dandy and both of us had to laugh about that. We also caught quite a few nice largemouth bass so after spending about 7 hours of hard fishing we called it a day and headed back to the cabin.
The funny thing about this outing was that I woke up about a half hour before the boys did to make breakfast and on the ride home they were both falling asleep. Dylan slept all the way to the cabin and Trevor took a nap after we got back. I guess the old guy outlasted them on this day. Once we had eaten lunch the boys took our small boat and were off to another lake and returned later that evening with a couple of dandy northern, which were earmarked for the dinner table the next day.
Last year, I taught Trevor how to take the “Y” bones out of a northern and now he is already a master at it. He told me that his mom and dad are sure happy that he knows how to do that but grandpa is probably just as happy because now he’s not the only one in the family who can do it. Trevor asked his cousin Dylan if he’d like to learn and he said he would try it. Trevor is already passing his skills on to the younger family members. He is always willing to share his fishing secrets with anyone that asks and he has a lot to share because the kid definitely knows fishing and the outdoors.
When an occasion like this happens, it really makes me feel proud to have taken both of the boys up north and be able to share so many good outdoor experiences with them. The best way to learn about fishing and becoming a good outdoorsman is to experience it. We always fish a variety of different lakes when we are up north and Dylan already has fond memories of them. Just the other day we were on a lake and he pointed out a location on that lake and said “this is where I caught my first northern”. It amazes me at just how much of an influence you can have on a youth. That’s a memory that he will be able to share with his kids one day.
Trevor is 17 and has already developed a real liking for that small boat of ours. On this trip he and Dylan had been going to different lakes in the evening after fishing with Grandpa in the big boat in the morning. I guess that I have always been a morning person so rising early and heading to a different lake is right down my alley. The last early morning fishing excursion of this trip north was pretty rewarding. When we got to the spot we were going to fish Trevor and I caught back-to-back fish within a minute of each other. Dylan started a little slow but was soon making up for it. The day before he’d had some really good fishing and I didn’t think he could duplicate it two days in a row but he came close. By the time we headed off the lake we had caught quite a few nice bass, some northern and a few panfish. Dylan told me more than once that this was the best fishing that he’d ever had on a trip north. I don’t think that there are ever any bad ones but this was truly a good day of fishing!
On the way back to Albert Lea we stopped at Reed’s Sporting Goods store by Mille Lacs. Trevor had heard about it from his uncle and wanted to stop and check it out. He bought a musky lure and an ice fishing reel; both necessities of course. Once we were back on the road Dylan was on his cell phone asking his friend if he wanted to go fishing that evening. These two boys are definitely hooked on the outdoors and grandpa couldn’t be prouder. They both thanked me many times for the trip but I should be the one thanking them.
Until next time, enjoy the outdoors and take a little time to teach a kid about fishing – it’s a rewarding experience.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
Here we are with the first day of the Freeborn County Fair breathing down our necks. One might also note how the hot weather has managed to maintain its hold on us the last few weeks.
Looking back on my years as a youth, I have always remembered the summer days around fair time as being hot. I recall the times when Pat Smith, a childhood friend of mine, and I would go to the Fairgrounds a few days before the fair was scheduled to start.
As part of our annual ritual, we walked to the fairgrounds from my house, which really didn’t seem all that far to a kid growing up in the country. On one particular day, we had cut across Vern Torgeson’s hay field. From the looks of it, he had just been baled.
There were frogs and grasshoppers almost everywhere we looked. The hot sun that was beating down on us didn’t seem to bother us kids.
We had no idea what air conditioning was like. Our version of this luxury was when we rolled the car windows down.
When we experienced some of those hot summer nights, I slept on a sheet on the floor in the living room with all the windows open. Now that was air conditioning at its finest.
Sometimes, while driving on Bridge Avenue, my mind drifts to that field and the many times that we walked across it on the way to the fairgrounds. There were some summers when the water in the “crick” would slow to a trickle and be reduced to a small stream.
As summer wore on, however, the hot weather would start to take its toll on the water quality. The fish and minnows that were abundant in the spring and early summer were scarce, being replaced for the most part by turtles and frogs.
As the duck weed flourished, the excitement of sighting a northern or some other game fish was replaced by the sighting of a turtle popping its head up through that colorful green blanket.
There are other things to remember about summertime in the neighborhood, like the old pond that we used to frequent, mostly in the winter time. The pond was where that Sunshine Day School once was, which has since become somebody’s home.
We went there to skate or play our version of “boot hockey.” Occasionally, the town kids would join us too.
When my cousin Tom went into the Army he gave me his hockey stick and a puck. I guess I was the only one of our “gang” that had a store-bought stick.
From time to time, we built a small bonfire on the outskirts of that old pond. I sometimes think we enjoyed that more than the games. We didn’t go there too often, but when we did, it was always a lot of fun.
Getting back to the fair days, I must say that my favorite part of the fair was the stock car races. There was also harness racing, but I didn’t enjoy that as much as the stock car races.
My Dad was the one that liked to watch the harness races. He spent hours there and would never leave the horse barns.
He loved horses, loved to ride and probably liked to talk horses about as much as anyone. The stock car races eventually went away though.
I’d venture to guess it was for a couple of different reasons. One; as more people started building around the fairgrounds, I’m sure that the noise probably got to be too much for the folks to tolerate. The other thing was the danger aspect.
I can recall one of the last races on the half-mile oval where a car went off the bank and through the fence on the northeast turn and ended up on Richway Drive. I also remember the Midget Car race where a driver was seriously injured when he flipped his car and cart wheeled end over end on the backstretch.
Eventually, harness racing also made its exit from the fair. It was once a popular event at the fair. There was even some local folks that owned race horses and stabled them at the fairgrounds year-round.
There were a couple of years that my Dad kept his horses there too. I tagged along when he went to do the chores.
It was hard to get him to leave when we were the only ones there, so if there was someone around to talk horses with, we’d be there way too long for me. I have to admit, I learned a lot about horses in those days whether I wanted to or not.
Yes, the anticipation of the fair was probably second only to Christmas. And, as that magic time grew closer, visions of candy apples and pineapple/strawberry swirl ice cream cones danced in my head.
I counted my lawn mowing and paper route money many times over with plans of enjoying the fair to the fullest. One fateful year, I got sucked in by a carnie who first asked us to help him and then gave us free games to hook us.
Soon enough, he managed to get most of my precious fair money from me on the first day. I can still remember laying at home in my bedroom listening to the fair going on in the distance and knowing that I had no money to go and enjoy it.
We didn’t have a lot of extra money those days, so if I went to the fair, I had to use my own money. I guess that was a life lesson because to this day, I’m not big on games of chance or gambling in general.
For years, there was a drawing for a new car that was held on the last night of the fair. For the kids, there was a drawing for a pony on Kids Day.
It’s kind of funny when I think about it because I always went to see who would win. But, secretly I hoped my ticket wouldn’t get drawn. I guess I just wasn’t destined to be another Roy, Gene or Hoppy.
The fair still has a certain smell to it. Walking through the livestock barns still smells like it did years ago. And of course, the food always smells good.
I don’t venture out to the fair much anymore, except to watch the grandkids show their 4-H projects. When I do go, I rekindle some fond memories of my fair dwelling days as a youth.
Until next time, take a little time to relax and maybe even enjoy a night at the fair. Whatever you do, just enjoy the outdoors experience.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.
The hot temperatures we have been experiencing the last few weeks have many area fishermen concerned.
I’ve seen this occur in past years, but it hasn’t happened in this area for quite some time. It is hard to accept because there is nothing to do but let nature take its course.
From the reports I have heard, dead fish have been found on Fountain, Bear, Geneva and Pickerel Lakes in our immediate area. When I first heard about the fish kill a feeling of frustration came over me when I thought about how the northern fishing was just starting to pick up on these area lakes.
The Minnesota DNR issued the following news release concerning the fish kills:
Record heat may be contributing to fish kills in Minnesota lakes
Record-setting heat may be contributing to fish kills in lakes across the state, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
“Natural summer fish kills are not unusual,” according to Brian Schultz, DNR assistant regional fisheries manager. “In the past several days, however, we’re getting increased reports of dead and dying fish in many lakes from around the state.”
Unusually warm weather has raised water temperatures of many shallow lakes. Schultz has received reports from DNR field staff of surface water temperatures in some lakes reaching 90 degrees, with temps at the bottom only a few degrees cooler where maximum depths are less than 10 feet. “Those are some high readings and northern pike are especially vulnerable when the water gets this warm,” Schultz said. “They are a cool water species and just can’t adjust to the high temperatures when sustained for more than a few days.”
Warm water temps can also impact other species such as walleye, yellow perch and bluegills.
“It is difficult to pin a summer kill on just one cause,” Schultz said, “and although it is a natural occurrence, it can be disturbing.”
Fish kills are usually not serious in the long run. Most lakes contain thousands of fish per acre and the fish kills represents a very small percent of that total.
Some positive effects from partial fish kills is that it creates an open niche in the fish population, allowing the remaining fish species to grow faster with less competition.
Minnesota lakes are resilient. The DNR has documented these conditions many times over and lake conditions and fish populations do return to managed expectations, either naturally or with the help of stocking if necessary.
— — —
A gentleman called me the other evening. He wondered if the fish kill could be caused by the treating of Fountain Lake for algae. I told him that for a fleeting moment that thought had entered my mind. But, with other area lakes experiencing the same thing, I know that it had no effect on it.
He said that although he was pushing 90 and is no longer able to fish, he was concerned about the future of fishing for his grandchildren and the generations that lie ahead.
I could tell that he was a person who is fond of fishing and the outdoors and hoped to pass it on. This is what we should all strive for as sportsmen; preserving the habitat and the sport of fishing and hunting. We need to introduce as many youth as we can to these sports so that they can carry on the traditions we have established.
Area organizations like the Fountain Lake Sportsman’s Club, Minnesota Deer Hunters, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited and Minnesota Waterfowl to name a few do a great job of introducing the youth to these various sports. As individuals we can take a little time out of our busy schedules to introduce our kids, grandkids or friends to the outdoors experience at one of our area lakes. We are fortunate that we have access to a lot of shoreline that we can use for fishing. It doesn’t cost a lot to introduce a kid to fishing – just a little time.
My grandson, Trevor, from time to time will ask me if I want to go fishing with him at one of our area lakes. I took him up on it last Sunday and went with him and his family.
I had a lot of fun and managed to catch some fish to boot. Watching him and his love for the outdoors is a rewarding experience and the satisfaction I get out of having shared my experiences with him is priceless. I have to admit that he has passed his Grandpa in his knowledge of the outdoors and that’s a good thing!
Until next time, take a little time to relax and enjoy a picnic at an area park, go for a walk or wet a line and soak a worm, but mainly just enjoy the outdoors experience and Stay cool!
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers because they are the reason we are able to enjoy all the freedoms that we have today.