Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors: Recent Episodes
Hubbard Radio Northern Minnesota
Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors features discussion of all things outdoors in the True North. With thousands of lakes and thousands of acres of forest, Paul Bunyan Country is home to some of the best fishing and hunting in North America and you'll hear from the some of the nation's best guides and anglers.
Last week, John Hoyer won his third National Walleye Tour Championship, Second In A Row, AND Won Angler Of The Year. But John Is So Much More Than His Trophies. A Truly Great Conversation With John Hoyer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
AGLOW, The Association Of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers, has its annual convention in Bemidji next week. Brady Laudon of Visit Bemidji has spearheaded this convention and the efforts to put Paul Bunyan Country in the national outdoor media spotlight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bruce Jean hit the road for a bucket list trip north of the border and we get the details. Plus, hot walleye action on cold Rainy Lake days, a BIG muskie catch AND of course a Fast (er Than Usual) Five Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dick Beardsley's finding a few walleyes...some crappies...and a ton of bass. He's got the details on the latest podcast. PLUS: The Aquatic Biologist takes a guess at our latest question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jason Rylander and his son were double Hard Time "winners" at the United Way Fishing Tournament, meaning they won the prize for the smallest stringer of fish. That's very hard to do. We'll get their secrets to futility and another Fast Five. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service talks Mille Lacs Muskies and other bites. Plus Storm Kettlehut out of the Glendwood Area Office has the latest Lake of the Week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Northland Pro Staffer Travis Peterson loves bass fishing and he's been busy reeling them in. We find out what's working and where they're biting, along with a little hoops talk too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nate Blasing Of The Nisswa Guides League checks in from the Brainerd Lakes area to talk walleye bites (still going) and several other fish as well. Plus other key topics and a pretty entertaing Fast Five. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Well, September is just a couple weeks away, so it's time to get ready for Ducks Unlimited Banquets, followed by duck hunting. DU Regional Director Dalton Rosin previews the area events and discusses all the efforts to keep ducks and duck hunting viable in Minnesota. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tim Humphrey of Aspen Outfitters is gearing up for another bear hunting season. The baiting is underway and he's in to talk all things bear hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Even though it's called the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, there's a Paul Bunyan chapter and they support all elk efforts, including here in Minnesota. Brad Fitzgerald tells us all about it. Plus our Lake(s) Of The Week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Women of BASA are holding their annual August Academy this weekend. Tara Hokuf and Ingrid Thompson have all the details of the event coming to the Northland Regional Sports Park. Plus Dr. Andy from Bemidji State talks Eelpout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jarrid Houston is catching fish and fired up because his BSU Beaver Football team is #8 in the nation. We talk those topics and much more on the latest PBCO Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Keith Tuma of Brainerd is running the gamut this year on the Bassmasters Elite Qualifying Trail. We get an update and some good bass tips too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Lake Vermilion has it all...walleyes, bass, northerns, muskies. And it's been a good year. We get all the details and some football talk too with Brainerd Warrior Head Football Coach AND Leisure Outdoor Adventures Guide Jason Freed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Erik Osberg's day job is promoting Otter Tail Country as a great place to live and work. And it translates seamlessly to his latest visit. We get the goods on the Otter Tails Lakes Country bite and the other usual nonsense and fun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The muskies are moving and Isaiah Hahn of You Bet Fishing Guide Service is chasing them. Plus an update on everything else going on in the Park Rapids area and, as always, a Fast Five Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Toby Kvalevog of Leisure Outdoor Adventures is back to talk about what's happening on the Leech Lake fishing scene. Walleyes are getting tougher, but it's been a good year. And of course, now it's time to chase muskies. All that and another Fast Five. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's always great when Tony Roach is in. He knows how to catch a fish or two and patrols one of the best lakes in Minnesota and the nation, Mille Lacs. He's got all the details on a strong walleye summer, big bass action and more. Plus, a Fast Five. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Chuck Hasse is finding walleyes on Leech Lake and success as an assistant coach on the diamond. We hear about the late summer bite and some Walker Baseball success with the multi-faceted Coach Hasse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bruce Jean of Rainy Lake Guiding checked in while guiding and netting fish for a family of four from (dare I say it out loud?) Green Bay. Yes, five Packer fans in a boat. At least they weren't out amongst the general population. The bite is great, and we got some on site reel by reel coverage. PLUS, the Bruce Jean Joke of the Day AND a Fast...er I mean Meandering Five. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bro Brosdahl can catch fish...and he's still catching walleyes in late July. We get the details, plus discuss the bluegill bite and many other important (and not too important) topics including his latest Fast Five. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dick Beardsley of Dick Beardsley Fishing Guide Service is back to talk multi[species fishing in the Bemidji area. He's still finding walleyes, but the crappies and bass are really snapping. All that and we meander through several other topics too.
It's coming up next Saturday & Sunday (July 22nd & 23rd). The 4th Annual Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament. And this year, Lakes Area United Way joins the fun, so you can fish many more lakes. We have all the details!
Outdoor Writer (& Hutchinson Area Fisheries Supervisor) Scott Mackenthun joins the show to talk about two line fishing, which is now legal on a couple of river systems in southern MN. Plus, Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State University talks fishing stocking practices.
Kev & Kevin talk muskellunge. It's July, and the muskie anglers are all in from now to November 30th. Paul Bunyan Country's premiere muskie guide talks all things muskie. Plus, if you don't know Jack, you will after the Lake of the Week!
Lake of the Woods is an amazing fishery and one of the gems of Paul Bunyan Country. Area Fisheries Supervisor Matt Skoog checks in with Kev to talk about all things Lake of the Woods including species health, AIS issues, concerns and, of course, sturgeon.
Mandy Uhrich has had a great fishing season so far. She's got all the details, plus an overall look at fishing in the Brainerd Lakes area, her favorite new "stuff', and a Fast Five.
The Earlyl Bird Deadline is June 30th for the Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament. Jason Rylander has all the details on that and everything else about this awesome six county tourney. Plus, Edie Evarts of the Bemidji Area Fisheries Office with an awesome Lake of the Week
It's been a great fishing season in Paul Bunyan Country and Otter Tail Country too. Garett Svir of Slab Seeker Guide Service talks walleyes, bass...and of course slabs. Plus Twins angst and we head to Aitkin for our Lake of the Week.
Jason checks in from a Lund Boat photo shoot to talk Park Rapids area fishing. We talk bites, gear, trends and a great story on why he does what he does.
Friend of the show Will Pappenfus is gearing up for Round 3 of his first season on the NWT. We review Rounds 1 and 2, and preview Round 3. Plus we get an update on the new Northwoods Bait location and of course a Fast Five.
Joel Nelson has been fishing all over Minnesota and he reports on the strong bite he's experienced all season. He's been fishing Paul Bunyan Country and several points south. We hear about it all. Plus a little spring turkey talk too.
Nate Blasing of the Nisswa Guides League is catching fish and so are his clients. It's been a banner month throughout Paul Bunyan Country and the Brainerd Lakes area is NO exception. And that's just ONE of the topics we cover.
Steve Mattson loves fishing the Grand Rapids area...and he loves fishing any species. But right now, the walleye bite is raging on Winni and the GRAHA is coming up on Pokegama. A lot to cover with a GREAT angler!
National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Famer Ted Takasaki makes his Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors debut! Ted was in town for Ray's Sport & Marine's Grand Opening so Kev had the chance to sit down and talk shallow water walleyes, new gear, Lund Boats and much more with the legend! PLUS our Lake of the Week from the Alexandria Lakes region.
Jason Rylander is catching a ton of walleyes, like everyone else. But he isn't spending the bulk of his time on the "biggies". He's hitting a lot of smaller lakes and getting the same results. We get all the details and fire up a Fast Five, too.
Tony Kennedy, Large Lake Specialist out of the Bemidji Area office, updates us on the status of the Cass Lake Chain. It's loaded with walleyes and muskies and has a number of other species, too. We talk numbers, lake health, year classes...you know, the usual.
Dan Fuller & Pat McSharry Check In With Kev Fresh Off Their Knights Of Columbus Walleye Classic Championship, Plus Kev Talks With Chris Thury About the Brian Truax Memorial Muskie Tournament and Adam Jackson On The Wahoo Bass Classic On Leech
Bruce Jean and Randy Klasen have known each other for a long time, but it's mainly been on a basketball court as a coach and official, where they didn't always see eye to eye. But now, they need to find common ground, because they're fishing together for the first time ever at the Knights Of Columbus Walleye Classic. They popped in after their first day of pre-fishing...and it was a blast.
The Northwest Region Has A New Fisheries Czar. Marc Bacigalupi slides over from his former role as the Brainerd Area Fisheries Supervisor and has his first conversation as the top dog.
This is Matt Breuer time! He loves fishing, turkey hunting and foraging and he's already done it all this year. He has all the details, including a wicked good start to the walleye season.
It's a Lake of the Week doubleheader as we discover a couple of gems in Paul Bunyan Country. First up we check out a lake in the Alex area that definitely does not contain the marine life it's named after...and secondly, we check out Pine Lake, which could be...well...pretty much anywhere. Listen to find out which Pine we're checking out.
Blane Klemek is not only the Northwest Regional Wildlife Manager, he's a columnist for the Bemidji Pioneer and one of his most common topics is birds. He has a passion for all the birds in the north country and today he shares his top tips for bird feeding and luring the birds to your backyard and feeders.
If Mandy Uhrich had her way, she'd fish for everything and hunt for everything...but there's only so many hours in the day...and pesky jobs too. Nonetheless, we'll find out about her hunting adventures as well as her thoughts on this snow dump we got before the ice was ideal. Plus a Holiday Fast Five and a Fishing/Hunting New Year's Resolution.
Bro Brosdahl loves this time of year. It's finally cool enough for him! Now if we can just get that ice thick enough. Bro tells us what he's seeing on the ice, where to find them, what to spend your Christmas money on AND even a Holiday Fast Five.
The ice was shaping up nicely...and then all that wet snow. That has set everything back and we check in with Nate Blasing to find out how things are (or are not) shaping up in the Brainerd Lakes area. The cold has helped the ice continue to thicken even under all that snow. He's got it all...plus a Holiday Fast Five.
Henry Drewes spent many years as the Northwest Regional Fisheries Manager and now he's spending many days on the water, in the woods and in the fields. We get his thoughts on the past year's fishing, the upcoming ice fishing and some hunting too.
Blane Klemek has been on Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors almost as much as Kev Jackson lately. But there's been a lot to cover. We had hunting seasons to preview, hunting seasons to recap, and there was the CWD positive deer and a possible special hunt. Well, Blane is back because it's now TWO CWD positives and the hunt is happening...very soon. Plus, Blane can take "Interim" off that title. We have all the details.
Lots of reports of good ice bites and of course, many places are not quite there yet. Dick Beardsley checked in a couple weeks ago to preview the season and give early ice advice. It's always fun to talk with Dick Beardsley, who has never found a reason to NOT be enthusiastic.
There were certainly some good stories in the various hunting seasons this fall, but there was a bad one too...a CWD positive deer found in the wild south of Bemidji. Blane Klemek covers that and everything else deer and otherwise in this season wrap up...well, except for muzzle loader and a few hardcore archers.
Scott Mackenthun wrote about it last year, and this year he tells us the tale. As deer season wanes (just muzzle loader left...and a few hard core archers). We had it on the radio prior to the opener, but if you missed it then, listen now...plus a little fishing talk too (and his first Fast Five).
Mandy Uhrich is always in a quandary. She loves fishing and she loves hunting. When we talked to her prior to the deer opener, she was torn by the great bites every species were providing in the Brainerd Lakes area. But the call of the woods was hard to resist. Certainly since then, she's probably given up on fishing, but a great conversation as always!
We talk alot of fishing with Bruce Jean of Rainy Lakes Guiding, but he also loves deer hunting, and we had a chance to talk prior to the opener. Great tales, plus some (now close to outdated) fall fishing talk and much more.
Assistant Northwest Regional Wildlife Manager Blane Klemek visits often to update the status of wildlife in Paul Bunyan Country, but this time he's telling (true) stories. He had his annual Rocky Mountain elk hunt, but also had a bucket list trip to Alaska. Take a listen and you'll probably be googling to prep for your own trip!
Lakes and Jasons around Halloween time might seem scary. But not this time. Jason Durham is the guest and while most are in the woods and fields, he's still plowing the Paul Bunyan Country waters catching fish. We talk about the bite, staying warm, ice fishing shows (already!) and much more. Always a blast when Jason stops by!
Getting back on track with our Lake of the Week features. We missed a week in there, so today, we'll feature TWO lakes. Up first we'll head over to Ottertail Country and get the details on East Battle Lake with Jim Wolters out of the Fergus Falls Area Fisheries Office. Then we talk with Rick Bruesewitz of the Aitkin Area Fisheries Office on the curiously named Farm Island Lake.
Bemidji Area Fisheries Supervisor Edie Evarts stopped by to recap the spring and summer in the Bemidji area. We covered surveys, AIS surprises, potential rule changes on the Turtle chain and much more. Overall, things are pretty good and she'll tell you why.
We chased him down on his Wedding Eve Eve, but Chuck Hasse of Leisure Outdoor Adventures was ready to chat. (I think he wanted Father-in-Law to be Jim Flesch to haul all the tables). We talked about walleyes, weddings, the upcoming Wild season...and as a successful professional tournament angler, you know what other topic was broached. Plus, a Fast Five and even a little hunting talk.
Kev Jackson checks in with Marc Bacigalupi out of the Brainerd Area Fisheries Office to see how the summer went. They talk annual surveys, anectodal reports and how things look for the future.
Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service is still working the waters of Mille Lacs, trying to hook some big muskies. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and we check out a real Gem from the Walker Area Fisheries Office.
Hunting seasons are escalating seemingly by the day! Early Teal is already over, Bear is already winding down, waterfowl kicks in this weekend, fall turkey, grouse, pheasant, archery deer...it's almost too much for one show. I said ALMOST. Assistant Northwest Regional Wildlif Manager Blane Klemek is in to talk about ALL of it.
Travis Peterson had a number of high finishes in big tournaments this year. Maybe it's not a dynasty, but couple his year with son Jace's and nephew Charlie's KC Walleye Classic Championship and it's at least a near "Travisty". He's had a great year of fishing and now tells us how we can have a great autumn.
Steve Ballou is in to talk about the 21st Annual Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic, one of the last softwater tournaments of the year. He discusses CF, research successes and the details of the big event. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and we head to the Park Rapids area for this week's gem.
Paul Bunyan Country Fishing Guide & Visit Bemidji dude Brady Laudon is back on the show. Brady's been getting walleyes, bass and panfish on a number of Bemidji area lakes and Lake Bemidji's walleye bite is picking back up as we get into the fall bite. Plus Brady talks about all the Bemidji love he got at the Visit Bemidji booth at the Minnesota State Fair.
United Way of Bemidji Area Executive Director Denae Alamano checks in to talk about the United Way Trap Shoot coming up September 29th at the Northland Regional Sports Park. Give your dead eye a little practice before you go hunting and help a great cause. Plus, Steve Scepaniak on Mille Lacs Lake action.
National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Famer Duane Peterson is back to recap the last few weeks of fishing and get you ready for the big fall bite. Duane has caught alot of fish (to put it mildly) and despite his love of bass, he says it's walleye time. Take notes!
Mike Frisch of "Fishing The Midwest" is back to talk Alexandria area fishing. He discusses the inconsistent walleye bite in the Alex area this summer. On the other hand, the bass bite has been boffo! Plus, we talk the School of Fish, his thoughts on live scope and, of course, another Fast Five.
Joel Nelson of Joel Nelson Outdoors checks in from Cannon Falls. He talks hot bites, river fishing and the differences with lake fishing, Plus, fall tips, hunting talk, technology and of course a Fast Five.
Isaiah Hahn of You Bet Fishing Guide Service is in to talk fall fishing. He's back at his "regular" job at Menahga School, but will be guiding and fishing everyday AFTER school and all weekend until ice up. He says the muskie bite has been solid and expects a great autumn. Plus we talk bass, walleye, pan fishing, live scope and much more.
We all love fishing, but for most of us it won't happen without a public access. Dave Schotzko is the DNR Area Parks & Trails Supervisor and he discusses the challenges in making Minnesota's 10,000 lakes (or many of them anyway) available to all of us. We talk early season challenges, late season challenges, how new accesses are created, plus bike, hike and snowmobile trails. It's alot of cover, so settle in!
Barry Manilow's favorite outdoor adventurer is back on the show to get us caught up on what she's doing. She's been casting a line mainly, but hunting seasons are coming, if not already underway. We talk all things Brainerd Lakes outdoors on today's show.
The 51st Annual Bemidji Ducks Unlimited Banquet is coming and the longest running DU Chapter Banquet (Walker) is a week later. Dalton Rosin of Ducks Unlimited has the details, plus we talk duck populations, wetlands and DU's goals. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and we've got an awesome one in the Deer River area.
Bear season is here and Matt Breuer of North Country Guide Service will be in the woods guiding clients to the hungry bruins. He's also been out gathering mushrooms and berries, catching fish and is getting ready for all kinds of hunting seasons. We cover it all on today's show.
Nate Blasing of the Nisswa Guides League is back. He talks Brainerd Lakes bites, the Walleye Alliance Fall Classic at Breezy Point, his thoughts on live scope and of course another Fast Five. And speaking of the Walleye Alliance, what's the status of their efforts to promote a 4 walleye limit statewide?
John Hoyer won his second Cabela's National Walleye Trail Championship in the last 4 years with an amazing three days on Lake Erie. John tells the tale and discusses how he did the fishing equivilant of "zig while they zag". He casted while they trolled. Here his first hand accout, plus we talk about his next big adventure...being part of Team USA in the World Championship in the Czech Republic.
Jason Durham of Go Fish! Guide Service checks in with some wild tales from the boat. Plus, always great fishing tips and advice, and Jason decides to take over the show...and do a reverse Fast Five. The nerve.
Bruce Jean of Rainy Lake Guiding brings it. Great walleye action, fascinating clients, bad...er...DAD jokes and an "hors d'oevre" that could triple your cholesterol. Plus his thoughts on live scope and much more. It's another epic conversation.
It has been a couple of turbulent years for the boat biz. How are things going now? More of a walleye chop than tsunami. Brandon Knutson of Ray's Sport & Marine updates the world of watercraft and talks fishing too. We talk alot of fishing on this show, so it's could to talk about what gets us to where the fish are biting.
Chuck Hasse and pal Randy Topper were in a HUGE 200+ boat national championship on Lake Oahe in South Dakota, where the temps topped 100 degrees all three days. Plus, he updates the latest on Leech Lake as we hit mid-August. All that and a controversial Fast Five where there's a dispute on ducks.
Tony Roach checks in to recap his recent Alaska vacation where he...fished! Salmon, halibut, walleyes...he covers it all. Plus, his thoughts on live scoping and a Fast Five. A great conversation with a great guide...and guy.
Tara Hokuf of the Women of BASA and Pete Milli of the Bemidji Area Shooters Association are preparing for hunting season. BASA has some upcoming events starting with next weekend's 4th Annual August Academy at the Northland Regional Shooting Sports Park. They've got all the details on today's show.
A couple of awesome lakes are the focus of today's show. Rick Bruesewitz of the Aitkin Area Fisheries Office has the details on Cedar Lake just southwest of Aitkin, a wonderful multi-species lake, including some choice muskies. And speaking of muskies, Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service details on the muskie battle on Mille Lacs and talks, northern, walleyes and bass as well.
Aaron Phillipe of True North Guide Service is finding walleye on Lake of the Woods. Forget Dog Days, the 'eyes of August are active. He has all the details, plus a little sturgeon talk while we're at it...and of course a Fast Five.
Corbin Hime of First City Guide Service makes his first appearance on Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors, which means he has his Fast Five initiation. Plus great info on Bemidji area walleye bites...how to get them to go and where they're at. In addition, he talks sturgeon, tournaments, electronics (or course) and how he found his way to Paul Bunyan Country.
Gamefair is back beginning this Friday in Ramsay. Ron Hustvedt is one of the coordinators and has all the details of what's coming to GameFair this weekend. Plus, he recaps his latest articles for Outdoor News and we talk a little fishing too.
It may be August, but Nick Cekalla of Eye Crazy Guide Service is still catching walleyes! He tells us how to make it happen and also talks about the other bites on Mille Lacs, Brainerd Lakes and Leech. Plus he sails through his first Fast Five and we get his thoughts on Live scope.
Carl Adams of Timberline Sports in Blackduck discusses the strong fishing season and what we can do to keep catching fish in August. Plus, it's time to start gearing up for fall hunting seasons. And the Lake of the Week with Detroit Lakes Area Fisheries Supervisor Nathan Olson.
Bro is catching fish...which will happen when you're on the water 300 plus days a year. He talks all the usual suspects and in all the usual lakes. Plus he talks bluegill conservation, livescope and the latest Fast Five.
Proud Pops Jason Rylander is in to share the details of his and son Rivers' United Way Fishing Tournament Heritage Championship. As the top multi-generational team, Rivers won a lifetime Minnesota Fishing License. Plus we get the details on the bites in the area, what his clients are looking for when they go fishing and of course...we talk electronics and live scope. Oh, and a Fast Five, too.
Nick Lindner is out catching fish! And he's filming a bunch of other people catching fish! So, he knows what it takes to catch fish during the dog days. We talk bass, panfish, walleyes, muskies...and technology. Plus, his first Fast Five. It's all about Nick on today's show!
A special edition for podcast subscribers only! Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service joins us to discuss the uptick in action on Mille Lacs Lake muskellunge. Plus we cover the other bites in the area and the best way to get muskies to hit.
Sam Larsen and Joe Ohman take the crown at the Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament Bass Division. It was their second title in the three years of the event and they were third last year. Kev valiantly (but futilely) tries to find their secret spot. We do get some great bass fishing advice however and a double Fast Five.
Garrett Haglin has been reeling in some very impressive bass lately and he shares the details with us. Plus his favorite new fishing "toys" and his thoughts on live scope (that'll be a question these guys will get a lot in the coming months). Plus the Fast Five and it's Lake(s) of the Week Day, too. We head to Park Rapids to check out a couple of gems.
We've talked with Kevin Cochran MANY times over the years...and 99% of the time it's about muskies. Actually, until today it was 100%. But he happens to be up in Alaska, so we actually talked a little salmon fishing. ALOT of muskie fishing, but a little salmon. Plus, with the Professional Muskie Tournament Trail's decision to ban livescope for the remaining two tournaments with a reevaluation after the year, we discuss the impact of state of the art electronics on muskies, and, of course another Fast Five.
The National Walleye Tour is winding down and we check in with 2019 champion John Hoyer to find out how things are going for him. We discuss the art of finding big walleyes, the joy of "just" fishing and even delve into bass and golf. Plus he's all in for the Fast Five.
Henry Drewes admits he had been accused of fishing "too much" even before he retired. And now? Well, he had to create a new "office" to go to, just so it wouldn't be so obvious. Henry discusses retirement, how the bite's been for him this year, remembers some key things in his time in the Northwest Fisheries Office and even survives the Fast Five.
It's been three years since the Fort Francis Canadian Bass Championship has allowed U.S. anglers in and the Americans are thrilled to be back post-Covid. Jace Peterson (KC Walleye Classic champ with cousin Charlie) is once again fishing the event with Pops Travis. He checks in with Kev prior to the event. Plus it's Lake of the Week Day and we put the spotlight on a popular little lake in Brainerd.
Jason Freed of Leisure Outdoor Adventures is back on the show. Jason's been guiding up on Vermilion and has the details on this unique Minnesota lake. Walleyes, bass, muskies...we cover it all along with The Fast Five and Jason engages in a bit of "coach speak".
Bemidji fishing remains strong, although the walleyes are slowing down. Brady Laudon, Bemidji Area Guide, talks hot bites in Bemidji. Brady also works with Visit Bemidji, so discusses the importance of outdoor activities to the tourism industry in the area. He also previews a BIG outdoor event coming to Bemidji next year.
Otter Tail Country Guide Garett Svir is all about the panfish and now is the time to talk about them, because the bite is on. Garrett covers it all including the new regs that are in effect and what we should be doing right now when we hit the water. Plus, of course, The Fast Five.
Mandy Uhrich checks in and tells us she's been doing something she hasn't done in quite some time...just fishing for...wait for it...FUN! She talks about that and everything else going on in the Brainerd Lakes area. PLUS...She sails through her second Fast Five and Mike McNeill of Lueken's Village Foods talks about the United Way Fishing Tournament.
Aaron "Schmitty" Schmitz of Northwoods Bait & Tackle in Bemidji is part of the Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament Committee and he has all the details for next weekend's big event. Listen to find out how easy it is to get involved and what a cool format it is. Plus he's got the details on hot bites in the Bemidji area and we've got our Lake of the Week, too!
Jeff "Gussy" Gustafson joins the show from Clayton, NY and the St. Lawrence River to talk Bassmaster Elite. He's sitting in 25th with three events to go and needs to to stay in the Top 40 to make next year's Bassmaster Classic. Plus, we discuss the walleye and bass bite in Ontario's sunset country and Gussy's first Fast Five.
The Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament returns to Paul Bunyan Country Saturday and Sunday, July 23-24. Tourney Chair Tracy Pogue stops by to talk about the unique format and big prizes. Plus, we talk Lake of the Woods...and a Fast Five.
Jeremy "Jonesy" Anderson joins the show to talk Park Rapids area fishing. He's been guiding for walleyes, bass, panfish and even a little bit of muskies. He has the details on what's biting and what's working in the Park Rapids area. Plus, we why is Jeremy running a guide service named after Jones?? And a Fast Five, too.
Tom Whitehead has been loving the new Northland lures and shares the details on the show. Plus, he runs down the hot bites in Brainerd Lakes and talks about the strong walleye bite that has continued into July. We even take a trip back to spring and discuss turkey hunts. Plus, of course, the Fast Five. It's also Lake of the Week Day and we head to the Alexandria area for a 247 acre gem!
Travis Peterson checks in to discuss the continuing strong walleye bite , and of course, the great bass action on area lakes. Plus, he's been trying some great new lures from Northland and the results are in. Plus, he was unprepared, but still nailed the Fast Five.
Charlie Worrath of Charlie's Gone Fishing Guide Service is in to talk walleye fishing on Winnibigoshish. Spoiler Alert: It's good. We discuss the numbers, the action and what we should be doing when we hit the water. Plus, Charlie reveals himself with The Fast Five.
Great conversation today with Erik Osberg, Rural Rebound Initiative Coordinator of Otter Tail County. He was in the midst of his OTC on US Tour when we talked. The fish have been biting and the bass are kicking in. We cover it all, including sharing some Twins pitching pain and a Fast Five.
Whether it's Lake Bemidji, Cass, Winni or the Turtle chain, Dick Beardsley is catching fish for his clients. He talks about the strong walleye bite this year and a multitude of other fish that have been in and out of his boat. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and Carl Pederson of the Walker Area Fisheries Office has the details.
Dusty Minke loves fishing walleyes...and he's having a great year. He's currently sitting #6 in the National Walleye Tour's Angler of the Year standings. He gets us caught up with his season, previews his next events and then just talks Paul Bunyan Country walleye fishing (particularly on Leech). And of course, we have to grill with a Fast Five.
We chased down GRAHA Walleye Shootout Champ Randy Topper. Randy and his partner Brock Anderson win the title in record fashion three weeks after Topps and Chuck Hasse won the Leech Lake Walleye Tournament. We talk all about it, plus get some great advice for walleye angling on the long holiday weekend. And Randy's first Fast Five.
Keith "The Big" Tuma opened his season at the Bassmaster Classic. Not bad. He tells us the tale and talks about the many other Bassmaster tourneys he's already fished this year. Plus, reports from Leech, great advice for summer bass bites AND his first Fast Five.
Jason Rylander of North Country Guide Service has been catching LOTS of walleye for himself and his clients. He talks about the great season so far, and the challenges he and partner Dan Fuller face at Saturday's GRAHA. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day...also in the Grand Rapids area...and Jason tackles another Fast Five.
Sam and Joe (ages 9 & 7), the youngest guests in Paul Bunyan Country history join the show to talk about their experiences in the United Way of Bemidji Area Fishing Tournament presented by Lueken's Village Foods. Plus, an EXCLUSIVE: Joe fires Grandpa for a new teammate! Plus, Denae Alamano has the details on how to get in on this year's tourney and Steve Scepaniak talks muskies.
Toby Kvalevog of Leisure Outdoor Adventures has been putting his clients on fish. At this point, it's mainly been walleyes, but there's nothing wrong with a great walleye bite. He's also had a chance for some limited muskie fishing and he's been hearing about some excellent bass fishing. Plus, he's gearing up for the third leg of the Paul Bunyan Country Triple Crown...the GRAHA Walleye Shootout on Pokegama. He's been in the Leech Lake Walleye Tournament Top 20 and took 5th in the KC Walleye Classic on Bemidji.
Steve Mattson of Mattson Angling Promotions joins Kev to talk Grand Rapids area fishing. It's been a great year so far. Walleye action on Winni has been spectacular and the bass bites have been great. This weekend is the GRAHA Walleye Shootout on Pokegama so he talks about the bite there and answers his first Fast Five.
Nate Blasing of the Nisswa Guide League has been catching walleyes this spring and into summer and he details the battle. Things are changing in the Brainerd Lakes waters and he discusses the adjustments anglers need to make. Plus, his first ever Fast Five.
Jarrid Houston of Houston's Guide Service in the Twin Ports is back to talk about Duluth-Superior fishing, particularly his favorite spot...the St. Louis River estuary into Superior. Plus, he tells us of a guiding first for him (episode title is a hint) and we hear from Rick Bruesewitz of the Aitkin Area Fisheries Office on our Lake of the Week.
Matt Breuer of North Country Guide Service joins Kev Jackson to talk about the awesome Smallmouth fishing he's experience on Lake Sumwearoruther. Plus we recap the turkey season, talk edibles AND he survives his first Fast Five.
Vance Balstad is back to talk about this weekend's Fishing Has No Boundaries event on Lake Bemidji. They can still use some help! Plus, the Lumberjack Fishing Team had a crew competing on Lake Minnetonka last weekend .We'll get the details from Hunter and David.
Jace Peterson and Charlie Peterson, young guns from Bemidji, take home the Knights of Columbus Walleye Classic title. The cousins reeled in over 23 pounds of walleyes, including the event's biggest lunker at 9.16 pounds. They discuss the day, the bite and the fact that it's now bass time. Plus, after the Leech Lake Walleye Tourney and KC Walleye Classic, the final leg of the Paul Bunyan Country Grand Slam is this Saturday on Pokegame: The GRAHA Walleye Shootout. Dave Weitzel of the Grand Rapids Area Fisheries Office puts the spotlight on that amazing lake.
Bruce Jean's heart is in the Rainy Lakes Region even when he's not there, so these are bittersweet times for him. He updates the flood situation and describes what he's been seeing and experiencing there. Despite it all, there's still fishing to be done and success to be had. He also previews the KC Walleye Classic coming to Bemidji Saturday
A lot to cover on today' show. We hear from Molly London of Kinship Park Rapids about their first ever kid's fishing event; we head to Otter Tail County to check out our Lake of the Week, Clitherall; and Steve Scepaniak details the opening weekend of muskie fishing.
The arrival of Covid-19 in 2020 scrapped Bemidji's Take A Kid Fishing event in 2020, and 2021 didn't happen either. But in 2022, the event has returned and today's show is live from the annual Fish Fry wrap up at Lake Bemidji State Park.
Chuck Hasse and Randy Topper won the Leech Lake Walleye Tournament Sunday for the second time. Chuck tells the tale of how they made it happen and how a smoking trolling motor almost did them in. Great conversation on tournament tactics, the challenge of fishing your home lake and another Fast Five for Chuck.
It's muskie opening weekend and we continue to put the spotlight on the big critters. Today, elite muskie guide Kevin Cochran previews 2022, talks gear and his observations and concerns about the muskie population in Paul Bunyan Country. PLUS! Sarah Smith of Confidence Learning Center talks about the 39th Annual Camp Fishing Classic coming June 18th to Gull Lake in Brainerd.
Minnesota and National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Famer Duane Peterson is in to share alot of knowledge and wisdom. Plus, he delivers in his first Fast Five. Plus, our Lake of the Week comes from the Park Rapids area. Fisheries Specialist Mike Kelly delivers the details.
The Muskie maniacs have awoken from their hibernation and are ready to fish. The opener is Saturday and they are pumped. At least two of Paul Bunyan Country's go-to muskie guys are. We check in with Isaiah Hahn of You Bet Fishing Guide Service and Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service (and Kevin Cochran is coming soon!). Plus, Isaiah enthusiastically tackles the Fast Five.
Knights of Columbus Walleye Classic Tournament Director John Marcum joins Kev to preview the big event, which is next Saturday, June 11. It's back to normal, which means there's much more going on besides the tournament! Plus, Calub Shavlik of the Park Rapids Area Fisheries Office reports on the Muskie study they're doing on Big Mantrap.
Jason Durham has had the fishing volume at "5" for the first couple weeks of angling. But now that his regular job of molding young Nevis minds has ended for a few months, he just turned the volume up to 11. He's got a ton of great info (as always) for a great weekend of fishing plus another fast five where he expounds on the joys of peanut butter...and salami? It's all about expanding your horizons!
Plus, Christina Regas reminds you to get registered for Take A Kid Fishing!
Mandy Uhrich found a sliver of free time to join the show. Late May through June is tournament time and she's either competing, donating, serving or all three. Plus her Lakeland Public TV features are starting soon and Commando has come calling. We get all the details plus great tips for multi-species action in the Brainerd Lakes area. Oh, and her first Fast Five too! Plus, the Brainerd Lakes area is where you will find our latest Lake of the Week.
Mike Frisch of "Fishing The Midwest" returns to talk early season walleye and multi-species fishing. Mike updates the Alexandria area fishing scene and discusses his early season trips to Big Stone. Plus, an update on The School of Fish and his first ever Fast Five.
Bruce Jean of Rainy Lake Guide Service is back and recaps the first couple weeks of walleye season. He's been fishing Mille Lacs and is headed to Rainy this weekend. He discusses the struggle of Rainy Lake residents with the water at near historic highs. Plus, he's got the Bruce Jean Joke of the Day (Warning: Ouch.) and endures his first Fast Five.
Rick Bruesewitz is the Aitkin Area Fisheries Supervisor and he's here talk about one of the gems in Paul Bunyan Country, Big Sandy Lake. In particular, he's got the details on a walleye movement study being done on the lake. Plus, Will Pappenfus talks early season Bemidji area fishing and his attempt to claim the title at the Gary Newell Memorial Walleye Tournament on Bemidji last Saturday.
Chris Haley, Bemidji High School Fishing Coach, checks in to preview the upcoming year. They open it up this Sunday with a multi-species tourney on Lake Bemidji. Chris discusses the growth of the program and the two prong approach he has. Plus, Leech Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Cindy Wannarka is now a Fishing Tournament Director too, as the Chamber has taken over the HUGE Leech Lake Walleye Tournament after a two year Covid hiatus. Teams and Tourneys on today's podcast.
The Minnesota Fishing Challenge returns to Gull Lake Saturday, June 4th and Tourney Director Bernie Barringer has the details. This is a truly unique fishing event and a very important fundraiser for Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge. Bernie has the event details and discusses the Adult & Teen Challenge Program.
Plus, our first Lake of the Week with Bemidji Area Fisheries Supervisor Edie Evarts. By the way, with the expansion of Paul Bunyan Country, we have many more lakes to discover, so as of this week, the Lake of the Week is a year round weekly feature!
Chuck Hasse of Leisure Outdoor Adventures joins the show to talk opening weekend and early season Leech Lake fishing and what we can expect in the next month or so. Plus, he blows Kev away with his Fast Five. Also Steve Scepaniak discusses opening weekend when you're NOT fishing for walleyes.
Bro Brosdahl has an opening weekend tradition. He & main squeeze Heather fish someplace they never have before. This year's adventure: Rainy Lake. Bro has the details plus everything he's heard from around Paul Bunyan Country. He also talks new toys, the state of the lakes and is grilled with his first Fast Five.
Opening weekend has come and gone, but fishing season has just begun. Carl Adams from Timberline Sports in Blackduck says it looks like a good one. The fish were biting on the opener, the number look good and the sizes look great. Red was stellar, Blackduck was producing as well. And those that made their way to the top of Minnesota were having a blast on Lake of the Woods.
Plus, we put the spotlight on the Alexandria Lakes area with DNR Fisheries Specialist Chris Uphoff. Tons of lakes and tons of fish...another gem in Paul Bunyan Country.
The Governor's Fishing Opener came to the heart of Paul Bunyan Country. In a unique twist, the Chippewa National Forest & the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe are the hosts in the heart of the forest. We were in the heart of the forest at the Norway Beach Visitor's Center and had conversations with with DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen, Fisheries Head Brad Parsons, Governor Tim Walz, his guide Tom Neustrom and many more.
The opener is upon us and there will be more than a few boats on the water in the Brainerd Lakes area. DNR Area Supervisor Marc Bacigalupi joins Kev to take a look at the state of the fishery in Brainerd. Plus, Toby Kvalevog of Leisure Outdoor Adventures gives his take on the opener and answers the bell for a fast five.
Bemidji Area Large Lake Specialist Tony Kennedy is back, this time to talk about Red Lake. Tony discusses the new 4 walleye limit, the expected rebound from a tough year and even the status of big crappies and trophy pike. Plus, Scott Mackenthun the Hutchinson Area Supervisor and an outdoor writer, talks Central MInnesota fishing and his expectations for opener, and Aaron Schmitz of Northwoods Bait previews the Bemidji Eagles Gary Newell Memorial Tournament.
Erik Osberg of The Outdoor Report checks in with Kev to talk Otter Tail Country as we put the spotlight on the County of A Thousand Lakes. (1,048 to be exact). Like most people we've talked with this spring, the water was still frozen on most of the lakes when we talked but that's clearly not the case now. He discusses the state of the fisheries of Otter Tail Country as we close in on the Opener.
Dick Beardsley of Dick Beardsley Fishing Guide Service previews the opener and while the weekend and wind took care of a lot of ice, there was still some out there when we talked Friday. Plus, Dick survives a Fast Five and we put the spotlight on Park Rapids as the countdown continues to opener. We hear from the new Park Rapids Area Fisheries Supervisor Wade Massure.
Large Lake Specialist Carl Pedersen has all the details on another one of Paul Bunyan Country's gems...Leech Lake. Leech is a lake where you can catch practically anything (except maybe sturgeon). How's it looking for 2022? Plus, Steve Scepaniak is ice free down his way and he's ready to go.
Baudette Area Fisheries Supervisor Phil Talmage discusses the fishing factory known as Lake of the Woods. Walleyes, sturgeon, bass, muskies, northern, panfish...Lake of the Woods has it all in spades. Plus, Nate Blasing of the Walleye Alliance is back to discuss legislative goals, most notably the quest for a statewide four walleye limit.
DNR Large Lake Specialist Tony Kennedy helps put the limelight on Cass Lake and the Cass chain. An amazing fishery with a completely natural population of walleyes and muskies, Cass Lake just keeps crankin' them out. Plus Andrusia, Wolf, Kitchi, Big and Pike Bay are just a few of the other tasty options on the chain. Tony covers it all. Plus, part one of a conversation with Nate Blasing of S & W Guide Service. He's also the President of the Walleye Alliance and we recap the banquet and preview the spring tournament.
For a couple of years, Winni anglers have been telling us they've been seeing and catching tons of small walleyes, and that the future was going to be very bright. It appears the future is now. Grand Rapids Area Fisheries Supervisor Dave Weitzel has all the details, plus we head to the backyard and ask the DNR's Non-Game Wildlife Spokesperson Lori Naumann whether or not we can feed the birds.
As we get ready for the (hopefully) soft water opener, we drill down on Paul Bunyan Country's "gems". First up, legendary Mille Lacs. Tom Heinrich, Milles Lacs Area Fisheries Supervisor has all the details. Plus Nicole Lalum of Explore Minnesota on the Governor's Opener coming to the heart of Paul Bunyan Country.
Moose populations in Minnesota aren't exploding, but they've turned around a bit in the latest population survey in northeast Minnesota. The DNR's Glenn DelGiudice joined Kev Jackson to share the latest, discuss the concerns and outline the possibilities of moose populations. When you live in a state where one of your most famous (fictional) residents is Bullwinkle J. Moose, the moose definitely is part of the culture.
Dr. Debbie Guelda is an Aquatic Biologist at Bemidji State University. Her specialty is rivers. And though Paul Bunyan Country is all about the lakes, it's also the headwaters of the Mississippi. Debbie discusses the importance of rivers in PBC and the world and discusses how the 2021 drought effected rivers in the state. Debbie takes us to the river on the latest PBCO Podcast.
We check in with Leisure Outdoor Adventures' Jason Freed. He's also part of the Walleye Alliance and will be working hard at their annual spring banquet Thursday night. He talks about the Alliance and its goals, what's happening Thursday night, and the upcoming (alleged) soft water season.
As the snow eventually melts, many of us will be raking, mowing and cleaning up around the yard. We'll also be camping and enjoying evenings outdoors. All of these activities often involve fire. DNR Forester Ben Lang talks fire safety, restrictions and concerns, particularly coming off a very dry year. He's got suggestions and reminders for us.
Mandy Uhrich is never bored. She's been traveling around Paul Bunyan Country and beyond and even had a few minutes to catch an eelpout. We get the details on her adventures and preview softwater too.
Spring break for Paul Bunyan Country anglers means early season walleyes and big sturgeon on the Rainy River. Bruce Jean of Rainy Lakes Guide Service talks about a favorite fishing spot for early April on the northern edge of Paul Bunyan Country.
Turkey hunting is the newest version of spring fever. As turkey populations continue to grow ever larger in the north country, the popularity of spring turkey hunting has exploded. We preview the upcoming season and discuss how things look for turkey and other wildlife populations after a cold winter with a lot of snow.
For those of you who don't know, Matt Breuer is a Registered Sleep Technologist. With the possibility of staying on daylight saving time, inquiring minds (well, at least Kev) wanted to know how that would affect us humans. Plus, we talked burbot and the ice fishing season, the upcoming turkey season and we even talked a little edible hunting.
Minnesota DNR Conservation Officer Jeff Johanson heads up the Training Office in Camp Ripley. He and the DNR are in the midst of a recruiting push aimed at talented people looking for a career change. The opportunity to sign up ends April 8th and he tells Kev Jackson how it all works, plus a look at DNR law enforcement in general and next steps if you're looking for a DNR Conservation career.
Garrett Haglin has braved the tough sledding and managed to get on the ice several times this winter in the Brainerd Lakes area. He's got the details, plus talks about his Florida fishing experience and the upcoming soft water season. Plus new products and he survives the Fast Five.
Dick Beardsley of Dick Beardsley's Fishing Guide Service and Brady Laudon of Visit Bemidji join the show to talk about...shock!...fishing. Brady and Dick both guide on area lakes and both love the area. We talk about a tough winter of ice fishing, the approaching spring, social media and fishing and we grill them with a Fast Five.
As we have discussed multiple times this winter, the mighty Eel Pout is getting some love. It has just been designated as a game fish this year. What does that mean exactly and what comes next? Nathan Olson, designated DNR Burbot Guru, lays it out on the latest PBCO Podcast.
Grand Rapids Area Fisheries Supervisor Dave Weitzel has the details on proposed management plans for a number of Grand Rapids area lakes. You can put your two cents in as well. We put the spotlight on the east side of Paul Bunyan Country.
National Walleye Tour Angler of the Year Drake Herd updates Kev on the Alexandria area hardwater scene. Like so many areas, it's a challenge to get out there. Plus we preview softwater season, the 2022 National Walleye Tour and new equipment.
Beth Holbrook of the Brainerd Area Fisheries Office and Bethany Bethke out of Duluth, are heading up a very important DNR study on perch. The numbers are down and so are the sizes. They're taking a deep dive to find out why. Perch are a hugely popular game fish (particularly during ice season) but perhaps even more importantly, they're a huge part of the forage base for most of the other fish we love to catch.
Randy Topper of Grand Rapids checked in from his darkhouse on Lake Winnie to talk Grand Rapids area hardwater. While it's been a tough winter on a good chunk of Paul Bunyan Country lakes, Winni has had a strong year, and it looks poised for a great softwater season. And Randy discusses the challenge of fishing his favorite lake...Pokegama. Listen in to find out what's happening in eastern PBC.
Jason Durham & Jason Rylander are Eelpout Evangelists, sharing the joy of the Burbot to whoever will listen. They sit down with Kev Jackson to discuss all things burbot...the eelpout as Minnesota's newest game fish, eelpout lures and tactics, eelpout cleaning, eelpout recipes, eelpout delicacies, and we even delve into the details of the world's most famous eelpout photo which propelled Jason Rylander to international superstardom. All that...PLUS our first ever "Fast Five". Hang on for the ride.
Bruce Jean is in with a podcast exclusive. The 37th annual Rainy Lake Sportfishing Club Ice Fishing Derby is this Saturday. Bruce Jean has all the details, including what the club is, what it does and how they'll use the money.
From music to politics to the outdoors, retired Paul Bunyan Country DNR Conservation Officer Mike Hruza has opinions. As a giver, he likes to share them, and we give him the platform. Mike, since retirement, has become a salmon fishing guide on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. He also hunts and fishes all over the continent. He shares his thoughts on how Minnesota stacks up and his concerns on how technology is taking the hunt out of hunting. Always interesting stuff from a true character.
Chuck Hasse of Leech Lake Fish House Rentals (& Leisure Outdoor Adventures during softwater season) checks in with Kev to talk all things Leech Lake, and a little Minnesota sports lamenting as well.
A car crash, a blizzard, an illness, and a new ice house that would make Martha Stewart proud (minus the insider trading). Mandy Uhrich's got it going on...including a...shall we say...tense trip to her second appearance on "Meat Eaters". We've got all the details on today's podcast.
Will Pappenfus had a great adventure at Ft. Peck, Montana, hauling in HUGE Lake Trout. He tells us the story, plus updates us on Paul Bunyan Country bites on Bemidji, Red, Lake of the Woods and MORE. Plus Hardwater v Softwater and the joys of truck fishing.
Bruce Jean The Fishing Machine has been drilling holes in many Paul Bunyan Country lakes this hardwater season. We hear tales from Lake of the Woods, Gull, Mille Lacs, Rainy and more. Plus we talk gear, and preview softwater too.
Bro Brosdahl loves fishing. And he really loves ice fishing. So, it seems like early February is a great time to talk to the MML (man, myth, legend) about hardwater angling. We talk lures, baits, hot spots and much, much more on today's podcast.
Kev Jackson spent alot of time talking Brainerd Lakes ice fishing this past month with the Brainerd Lakes Ice Fishing Extravaganza in the spotlight. If you missed it first time around, take a listen to the wisdom of Austin Williams and Tom Whitehead, a couple of guys who know the area well and know how to catch fish.
Though the ice isn't perfect, once you deal with the slush and snow, the bite is pretty darn good. Garrett Svir of Slab Seeker Guide Service talks Otter Tail Country panfish and Nate Blasing of S&W Guide Service talks multi-species ice fishing throughout Paul Bunyan Country, the Walleye Alliance and much more!
The Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is this Saturday. It's not a typical day or a typical tournament. 10,000 people fishing the same area. How in the world do you differentiate yourself?? We talk with Tim Hanske of Leisure Outdoor Adventures about Gull Lake Hardwater Fishing and standing out in a crowd. Plus, Benji Thoennes of the Brainerd Jaycees with all the event details.
Erik Osberg joins the show to discuss hardwater fishing in Otter Tail Lakes Country. The ice ain't great, but the bite is solid. He covers it all, including his discussion of "suck factor". We also talk top lures, being mobile, and the positives of having a not completely decked out ice house.
There are been very few CWD positives in Crow Wing County. In fact, this was the final year of testing if there were no positives. Unfortunately, there was one. So, Christine Riecz discusses what that means going forward. Plus, a look at harvest in the Brainerd Lakes area and a discussion on the goals of the Area Wildlife Office when it comes to deer management.
America's Ice Fishing Contest, a virtual nationwide hardwater tourney, is coming up next Saturday and the Ice Fishing Extravaganza on Gull Lake is coming up the following Saturday. We check in with Chris Dense on America's Ice Fishing Contest and Andrew Jay about the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza. Get the details on today's podcast.
The reports from the moment the ice covered Red Lake have been outstanding. The question is whether it's really as awesome as everyone says it is. Carl Adams from Timberline Sports in Blackduck shares the amazing details, plus talks about other excellent ice fishing spots up north as well.
It's not enough to have the world's largest ice fishing tournament...the Brainerd Jaycees want to have the world's largest virtual ice fishing tournament, too! The party on Gull, otherwise known as the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is back and in person Saturday, January 29th. The Saturday before, it's America's Ice Fishing Tournament, a first ever online event. Tad Johnson of the Brainerd Jaycees has the details.
On Christmas Day, we had fresh new programming for you. On New Year's Day...we're slacking. Fortunately, we've got a great library of past interviews and you're in for a treat. From 2012, we talk with John & Duane Peterson after their induction into the Freshwater Fishing Hall Of Fame. They discuss the founding and growth of Northland Fishing Tackle. Plus another Hall Of Famer: In an interview from 2016. Al Maas relives the Famous Leech Lake Muskie Rampage, something he witnessed first hand. If you haven't heard these before, they're well worth a listen. If you have heard these before, there well worth a redo.
When last we talked with Mandy U, she told us about the "8 Pointer". So what's she been up to since she landed her proverbial "white whale"? She tells us that, along with her thoughts on where you should be ice fishing and what you should use.
A few archers are still patrolling the woods through the end of the year, but the bulk of deer hunting is done. It seems like a good time to check back in with Northwest Regional Wildlife Manager Blane Klemek and find out how things went this fall. Plus, we find out if there were any other CWD positives in Beltrami County.
Nate Blasing of S&W Guide Service checks in. Everybody's ready to ice fish but not every lake is ready. Nate discusses where the ice is thick enough and where it's not, along with what you should be doing during the early ice season.
Things were cooling nicely on Mille Lacs but then came 40 plus temps and thunderstorms. THUNDERSTORMS! Don't they know they're supposed to be hibernating with the bears? Anyway, the took off a layer of ice and now there are some wide open areas on Mille Lacs. Brad discusses what it will take for them to get in to full ice season. Plus a preview of what we should be doing once we get out there.
All in all, Steve Scepaniak would rather be on Mille Lacs. But thin ice and rain made that a no go last week, so he headed north to Upper Red, where he had a great day of fishing. He gives ihis thoughts on the Red Lake bite and what they'll need to get Mille Lacs hardwater ready. Plus tips on where you should start your quest when you get out on the ice.
Yes, Red Lake is HOT. Well, it's actually cold, but you know what I mean. Aaron Schmitz of NW Bait talks about the early ice action on Upper Red, plus other hot spots up north. Aaron also talks about the top lures and baits and starting a bait shop.
When we checked in with Mike Frisch, alot of Alex area waters weren't quite ready for ice fishing. They may be now, but the topsy turvy weather has made it a bit iffy. Nonetheless, a lifetime of hardwater angling gives him the lake cred to do a little coaching.
Trapping seasons are underway and we realized we'd never covered the topic before, so when there's something in the outdoors we haven't covered before, we go to the guy we know has probably done it...Matt Breuer. We were right. Trapping talk on the latest Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors
Matt Breuer of NorthCountry Guide Service does just about everything there is to do outdoors...and that includes trapping. With trapping seasons underway, we take a look at this historic endeavor. Trappers are dwindling, but it's still beloved by many. Today we find out why.
Dick Beardsley is too nice to call anyone "stupid". But he is adamant that you need to be smart when you get on the ice. We're certainly in prime ice making time right now, but we were just getting started when we talked with Dick. He discusses the gear you need, how to stay safe, where they will be and what he'll be using. The lakes have stiffened up and it's time to drill down!
The weather has definitely turned and there are very few boats on the water these days. If you see a boat on the lake, it's probably a musky angler...and there's a pretty good chance it's Kevin Cochran. He's got a couple weeks of muskie fishing left and he's having success. We talk fall bites, staying warm and staying alive.
Many folks fished longer than anticipated due to a very nice fall. But winter's here for real and it seems likely that it'll be only hard core muskie hunters from here until hard water (or December 1st...whichever comes first). Ray's Sport & Marine's Service Manager Justin Spaude has winterization tips if you haven't buttoned down the hatches quite yet. In addition, Steve Scepaniak discusses what they've seen...and haven't seen...from deer camp thus far.
Mandy Uhrich's got a story to tell. So pull up a chair and enjoy this tale of a three year quest for the buck that just wouldn't be found...until now. If you've ever wondered why people are drawn to the hunt, this story explains it all.
Jason Durham calls it his deer hunting tradition. But is it really? Can you call something a deer hunting tradition if it has nothing to do with deer hunting? Talk amongst yourselves. We talk with Jason Durham who spends the deer opener...fishing. Shocking, huh? It's what he and his dad do every deer opener...and of course, the fall bite is awesome.
With the fish still biting, and deer opener upon us, it seemed like a good time to check in with Mandy Uhrich, who is one of the most likely people to be doing both (plus several other things too). Well, not only is she still hitting the water, she's been pheasant hunting and is ready to get the big buck that keeps passing by her trail cams. She even took time to take off her baseball cap and accept a "Distinguished Alumnus" award from her alma mater. We cover it all on the latest podcast.
The first post CWD Deer Opener is coming to Beltrami County. Blane discusses what successful hunters will need to do in the affected permit areas. He also discusses the deer herd populations, deer philosophies in MInnesota, and we discuss the elk herds in Minnesota.
Christine Reisz is the Brainerd Area Wildlife Supervisor. She talks about the woods and wild of the Brainerd Lakes area as the countdown continues to the firearm deer opener on Saturday. We talk the successful response to CWD in Crow Wing County and much more.
Bro Brosdahl can catch fish any day of the year...and probably has. He joins the show to talk all things fishing. He recaps this year, talks fall action, previews the ice bite and discusses all the hot spots and hot new gear. Another awesome session with Bro.
Deer hunting is coming soon and we talk with Fergus Falls Area Wildlife Supervisor Mike Oehler about the status of wildlife in his area, which includes Fergus Falls, Otter Tail county, and the Alexandria area. Plus we talk bear, ducks, prairie chickens and more. All about the woods, prairie and fields.
Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service is trying to get those muskies to bite, but the fall bite hasn't quite kicked in on Mille Lacs yet. The big pike are going though as are walleyes and smallies. Steve recaps and previews...and is getting ready for a little hunting too.
Former BSU Beaver Football star Brice Vollbrecht is better known these days as A DNR Conservation Officer in the Bemidji area. He joins the show and discusses BSU-UMD football, hunting and fishing regulations and safe practices for deer hunting and early ice fishing. Plus why he chose the law enforcement field.
Duane Peterson has been enjoying the fall walleye bite and has all the details. He also discusses a strong fishing season and shares his insights. It's always a treat to hear from the all time greats and especially one that knows Paul Bunyan Country as well as anyone.
It's been a mild fall until recently and that has changed the standard duck patterns and timelines. Ducks Unlimited Regional Director Dalton Rosin has been in the blind and updates us on the hunt. He also talks about upcoming DU events throughout Paul Bunyan Country and DU's activities lately.
Scott Mackenthun is the Hutchinson Area Fisheries Supervisor as well as a well known outdoor writer, so we have a lot to talk about! He discusses southern Minnesota fishing, including flathead cats and Minnesota River fishing. Plus, we discuss more panfish changes on the way, an exciting out of state hunting and fishing trips and a ton of other topics. Great stuff on today's podcast!
Brent Knutson and his fiancee Shawna Erdmann won the Minnesota Tournament Trail Championship a few weeks ago on Lake of the Woods. Brent joined the show to tell the championship tale and discuss how the more regional MN Tournament Trail has a number of Husband-wife, boyfriend-girlfriend teams competing and how he and Shawna pulled off the title. He also discusses the hot bites in the area right now and what he expects in the next few weeks.
Mandy Uhrich has been dying to get into her deer stand with her bow and arrow, but she just can't give up fishing with the incredible bite going on. She talks about the amazing bass and walleye bites, and even a little river pike. And with the weather cooling, it's only going to get better. Mandy has the details on the latest podcast!
Garrett Haglin loves, loves, loves the outdoors. And he is a great educator. On today's show, we discuss the not quite fall bite (can we really say that in October?) in the Brainerd Lakes area and talk bass in particular. Plus, he's been out shooting wood ducks and now is getting ready for one of this favorites...pheasant hunting.
Bruce Jean is back on the show. He's been busy fishing a few different lakes. He recently fished Walleye Dan's Fishing To End Hunger Tourney on Gull Lake and, of course, Rainy. Plus he's been crappie fishing too. We talk about it all with Bruce Jean the Fishin' Machine. And a Podcast Exclusive: Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service on October muskie fishing on Mille Lacs.
The single biggest project this year from the DNR's Northwest Regional Wildlife crew is containing CWD in Beltrami County. Much has been discussed and written about it, including right here on Paul Bunyan Country. But with hunting season coming, we take a look at what's been accomplished and what's expected of hunter's this season and beyond. There's also a ton of other hunting seasons underway or soon to be underway, so there's a lot to cover with Blane.
It was a great weekend for Paul Bunyan Country last weekend at the National Walleye Tour National Championship. First of all, the event was on one of Paul Bunyan Country's well known lakes, Otter Tail and the fish were biting. Plus, two Paul Bunyan Country anglers dominated the weekend. Drake Herd of Alexandria earned Angler of the Year honors, and young Eric McQuoid of Isle, a junior at Bemidji State University, won the National Championship. We'll hear from both on today's ELITE edition of the Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors Podcast.
With Duck and waterfowl seasons underway, it's a good time to talk wetlands. They are vital to strong waterfowl populations and are key to several other animal species as well. We talk with Bemidji State University Aquatic Biology Professor Dr. Rick Koch on the importance of wetlands, the status of wetlands in the modern world and how this year's drought affecting them. It's a swampy edition of the Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors Podcast
Steve Scepaniak is ready for hunting season and eventually he'll be hunting in the woods. But right now, he's hunting muskellunge on the waters of Mille Lacs. We get the details. Plus, Mandy Uhrich WANTS to go hunting, but she can't force herself off the water because the Brainerd Lakes walleye & bass bites are very strong...and it's not even a full fledged fall bite yet!
Steve Ballou has been running the Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic for 20 years. It started when he ran Break On The Lake Resort and has continued even after he sold the resort. The Ballou's had two children who had CF: Their son who died at age 17, and their 34 year old daughter, a living testament of the progress that has been made in the battle against CF. We discuss CF, the CF Foundation, tourney details and fall fishing on Cass Lake.
The Masters Walleye Circuit had its final qualifier last Friday and Saturday on Cass Lake, and a couple of locals used their skills and knowledge to bring home the title. We get all the details from Chuck Hasse and Randy Topper, plus Inside Baseball talk on tournament strategies, team roles and how it feels to win...when you didn't think you pulled in enough pounds.
With summer over and fall upon us, it's always a good time to take a look at how things are stacking up in the fishing scene. Today, we hear from the Brainerd Area Fisheries Supervisor Marc Bacigalupi. We discuss the pressure and harvest success this year in the Brainerd Lakes area, along with a look at AIS concerns, drought effects and what the hardwater season may bring.
As always, we wrap up our 20 week daily foray into the world of Paul Bunyan Country fishing with what we call "The State Of The Fishery". Bemidji's New Area Fisheries Supervisor Edie Evarts joined Kev to talk about everything that's happening on and in the water. They look at fishing pressure, harvest success, concerns, AIS, drought, you name it. It's all covered along with a preview of what the DNR will be up to in the coming months. Just a reminder, though the daily show is done, Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors will continue on a weekly basis and the podcast will be a few times a week.
Steve Mattson is back on the show to talk Grand Rapids area fishing. All potential fishing topics are covered, plus a little hunting talk and how unfair it is that the shortest season of the year has so much good stuff to do! Plus, Brainerd Area Fisheries Supervisor Marc Bacigalupi is in once again with this year's final Lake (or in this case Lakes) of the Week.
Otter Tail County has a full 10% of Minnesota's lakes, so there's a good chance you'll find something biting. Erik Osberg of Otter Tail Lakes Country has all the details on what's going on in Otter Tail. Plus we talk about the upcoming National Walleye Trail Championships coming to Otter Tail Lake itself later this month.
Isaiah Hahn of You Bet Fishing Guide Service has been on the water all summer and still making time for fishing even though his "real" job--teaching--is underway once again. Isaiah is a musky nut and he discusses the season so far and what's to come, plus everything else going on in the Park Rapids area.
The Frank Schneider Jr. Memorial Musky Tournament has come and gone for another year and Tournament Director Peter Janik joins the show one more time to recap the event. We get the winners, the numbers and all other relevant stats. Plus, Dr. Andrew Hafs of Bemidji State University's Aquatic Biology Program discusses how often an average fish falls for our bait in his or her life.
Bear season is under way in Minnesota and the early success rates have been good. Matt Breuer of North Country Guide Service joins the show to discuss early successes with clients. Plus we discuss other seasons, the right size to hunt and shocking never before seen photos of Sasquatch...or is it someone else?
Adam Rasmussen of Sturgeon Bay, WI came over to Pelican Lake in Orr for a Champions Tour Event and shattered the bass record by reeling in 98 bass weighing over 247 pounds in one day. It was an amazing day and it may never be topped. LIsten to all the details from Adam, plus we head to the Park Rapids area for our Lake of the Week.
Keith Tuma and partner Andy Walls claimed a recent Bass tourney on Woman and were named Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation Team of the Year. That puts the Tuma-Walls tandem in the Bassmasters National Team Championship. He talks about that tourney circuit and his upcoming Bassmaster Opens, plus Brainerd Lakes Bass. Meanwhile, Bemidji State's Dr. Andrew Hafs, our resident Aquatic Biologist, discusses the growth of smallmouth populations in Paul Bunyan Country.
Some people turn everything into a binary choice...either/or. Either you go fishing or you go hunting. Then there's Mandy Uhrich. She goes fishing AND hunting. So she's very busy. We talk all things outdoors with one of the best ambassadors for getting out of the house in the nation. We talk hot fish bites (many), current and upcoming hunting seasons and how she plans to divvy up her time. She also lays out how deer hunting will work in Beltrami County with CWD protocols.
As we head into the long Labor Day weeekend, we unofficially wrap up summer with a couple of excellent anglers and guides. We cover all kinds of subjects with Chuck Hasse of Leisure Outdoor Adventures, including Leech Lake walleyes (a little slow), bass (not slow), zebra mussels, cold weather wear, and not the Twins. Plus, Steve Scepaniak talks about a strong pike bite on Mille Lacs and the improving musky action, too.
Carl Adams of Timberline Sport & Convenience in Blackduck joins the show to talk fishing. The bite on Blackduck has slowed, but it was a very good summer. It's been hit and miss on Red, and Lake of the Woods? Well, it's Lake of the Woods. Plus, we preview the hunting seasons and talk about the challenge of a sporting goods store getting ammo. And it's Lake of the Week day. Andy Thompson of the Bemidji Area Fisheries office has the details on beautiful little lake north of Bemidji.
The Bemidji Chapter of Ducks Unlimited has its annual banquet Thursday, September 9th and it's a big one...the 50th Annual! New Regional Director Dalton Rosin and former Director Scottie Anderson (and new National Non-Traditional Revenue Director) talk about the event and all things duck. Then, Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State University discussed why weather affects fish.
Many, many times we've talked with members of the Peterson family on Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country. There are several good reasons why: #1. They're great anglers; #2. They're great people; #3. They love fishing and know how to talk about it. #4. They keep winning tournaments. This time around, it was Great Uncle John Peterson teaming up with Great Nephew Jace. We've got them both in the studio to talk about their championship and all things fishing.
Nate Blasing of S&W Guide Service in the Brainerd Lakes area joins the show to talk late August fishing. He discusses trying to find walleyes during the dog days and what fish are the best to go after now. Plus, we hear from the runners up and champions (Tait & Ty Sennett) of the Professional Musky Tournament Trail qualifier this past weekend on The Bemidji & Cass Lake chains.
Mike Frisch stops by to get us caught up with the Alexandria Lakes Area scene. We talk hot bites and tough bites, he discusses the overall view of what's going on long and short term and also gets us caught up on his many ventures including his TV show "Fishing The Midwest", his podcast, The School Of Fish and his website. Plus, Peter Janik updates us on the Frank Schneider Jr. Memorial Musky Tournament coming to Paul Bunyan Country in September. The deadline to register is TUESDAY!
After more than a year, the Canadian border is once again open and Jeff Andersen of Leisure Outdoor Adventures made the trip north to catch some Lake of the Woods muskies. He also discusses the bite on Paul Bunyan Country lakes with the PMTT this weekend and the Frank Schneider Jr. Memorial Musky Tournament coming in September. Plus, Doug Schultz of the Walker Area Fisheries Office has this week's Lake of the Week, a true hidden away gem.
The final qualifier for next month's Professional Musky Tournament Trail World Championship is this weekend in Paul Bunyan Country. Bemidji and Cass Lake are the big lakes involved, but any lake(s) accessible from those lakes are fair game. Tournament Director Tim Widlacki and Visit Bemidji's Brady Laudon have all the details. There are 123 teams set to go and the vast majority still have a shot of cracking the Top 40 and making the championship field.
Seven years ago when we were still just a Bemidji radio show, we had a series that ran throughout 2014 called "Why Do You Fish?" Kev asked a number of the League Of Extraordinary Anglers that question. Simple question. Great answers. We thought that our new podcast listeners would like to hear some those great answers. And also, Kev ran out of time.
Will Pappenfus and Nick Cekalla battled for AIM Walleye State Championship honors at Lake of the Woods last weekend. They finished middle of the pack but were runners up for Minnesota Team of the Year and secured a spot in next spring's National AIM Championship. He talks about the tough fishing on Lake of the Woods, the overall walleye bite in Paul Bunyan Country and what else he's seeing and hearing on Paul Bunyan Country waters. Plus, Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State University talks stunted panfish.
Until just a week or two ago, the walleyes were still biting in the area. But dog days have kicked in. Good anglers and good equipment will still get you some fish, but it's a tough bite that requires patience. Dick Beardsley discusses how to find walleyes and if you have a short attention span, the fish that are biting now. We also discuss the Drought Blues.
Dean Krebs joins the show to discuss the incredibly successful Alexandria Youth Outdoor Activity Day. The event is in its seventh year and brings well over 2,000 kids to the Alexandria Shooting Park for a completely free day of 40+ outdoor activities for youth to take part in. Even lunch is free! AND there's prizes. Looking for a great thing for your kids to do? Here's a great idea! Plus, it's lake of the week day and Marc Bacigalupi has the details on this week's awesome lake.
The lure of the the lunker. That's what it's all about for muskie anglers. Catching any muskie requires some patience, but a 50 plus? That's a lifetime memory. And 55+? Generally once in a lifetime. And Muskie Guide Extraordinaire Kevin Cochran tells the story of that once in a lifetime fish for one of his clients. Plus, all kinds of other muskie topics as well.
Former Paul Bunyan Country Conservation Officer "Mountain" Mike Hruza has long retired to the wonder of Alaska. He is now a guide and (according to him) the Director of Fun at Kenai Riverbend Resort on the Kenai River in Alaska. He makes his annual report on the salmon runs and all other wilderness adventures.
The bite is tough, but the tough are still casting and reeling in some fish. On the latest, Kev Jackson talks with Mandy Uhrich about the bite in Brainerd Lakes and Steve Scepaniak has the latest on Mille Lacs Lake muskies. Plus, we ask Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State University if lure color matters.
An unusual show today as Kev had the opportunity to hear from a couple of awesome anglers at the same time...The Jasons. Jason Durham of Go Fish! Guide Service fishes the Park Rapids area and Jason Rylander of North Country Guides is all over the Bemidji area. The two are also great friends and it made for a great conversation. Oh, and before the great conversation...Jason pranked Jason (Durham pranked Rylander).
GameFair is in the first of its two weekends in Ramsey and we talk with one of the most popular presenters, Trick Shooter Travis Mears. He discusses how he got into trick shooting, as well as shooting competitions and his love of hunting. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and we get the details on a Park Rapids area lake.
Yesterday, we talked GameFair with Ron Hustevedt. Today, we are back to hear from one of the most prominent presenters, Hall of Fame shooter Nora Ross. She discusses her favorite guns, her many firsts as a female shooter and what she's bringing to GameFair. And we talk with Peter Janik of the Twin Cities Chapter of Muskies Inc about the 54th Annual Frank Schneider Jr Muskies Inc tournament, coming up about a month from now.
Rich Blomberg has been fishing Paul Bunyan Country for a long time and he joins Kev Jackson to discuss the best bites and the best lakes. They dive into Pokegama and the amazing Lake of the Woods. He also discusses a very special event he's been involved in the past two years. Plus, Ron Hustvedt is ready for GameFair, back in Ramsey this weekend and next after the 2020 Covid hiatus.
The Bemidji Area Shooters Association is getting ready for their 3rd Annual August Academy at the Northwest Regional Shooting Park this Friday through Sunday. Tara Hokuf stops by for all the details. She also talks about the 3rd Anniversary of the Well Armed Woman and the Aquatic Biologist weighs in on the effects of hooks on fish. We know the effects on fish that are caught, but what about hooks that get caught in the fish?
Big show for the weekend! Bruce Jean of Rainy Lake Guides talks about the Rainy bite, the beauty of the Voyageurs and the concerns of drought and fire. Meanwhile, Mandy Uhrich, the angling biologist, shares her insights on the low water levels and the effect on lakes and fish. Plus, a podcast bonus: Steve Scepaniak on Mille Lacs Muskies, and responsible use of social media.
Jeremy Anderson (Jonesy to his friends) of Jones's Guide Service talks Park Rapids area fishing and necessary adjustments to low water depths and warm water. Plus, Andy Thompson of the Bemidji Area Fisheries Office has all the details on this week's Lake of the Week, the famous "lake within a lake".
John Williams has had a long and excellent career with the Minnesota DNR, the last many years at the Northwest Regional Wildlife Manager. His retirement came a day after Henry Drewes, meaning there's quite a void at the NW office at the moment. On today's show, we look back at John's career, hear some great stories and discuss his concerns as he looks to the future.
The final 2021 Qualifier for the Professional Muskie Tournament Trail is in Bemidji late this month. Tim Widlacki, Tournament Director joins Visit Bemidji's Brady Laudon to talk about the event and its importance in the quest for a national title. Meanwhile, Kev checks in with Buck Lescarbeau of Best Bet Guide Service on Lake Vermilion. The bite has been strong, and according to Buck...still is.
Keith Tuma, fresh off his first stint at iCast checks in with an update of all the goodies coming out for you this year and talks summer bass bites and tournaments. Meanwhile, Bemidji State's Dr. Andy Hafs discusses signs that a lake may be in trouble.
One of the great things Kev Jackson loves about doing this show is all the great people he gets to talk to. One of those great people is Henry Drewes. But after this show, the next time they talk, Henry will not be the Northwest Regional Fisheries Manager...he'll just be fishin'. Today Henry reminisces and share's his thoughts on the past...and the future of Paul Bunyan Country Fishing.
The 2nd Annual Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament is a wrap and we have champions. We'll hear from the Walleye Champs and half the Bass Championship team. Gordon Fothergill and Jason Hermiston claimed the $3,000 Walleye title and earned the $500 Chester Berg Toyota Big Fish Award with a 31" beauty. Meanwhile Aaron Bommersbach and Josh Leeseberg won the Bass title. Unfortunately, work got in the way and Aaron couldn't be here, but we talked with partner Josh about what it took to win the $3,000 Bass title. But wait, there's more! It's Lake of the Week Day, and we'll hear from Doug Schultz of the Walker Area Fisheries Office on this week's gem.
Matt Breuer of North Country Guide Service spent some time talk all things outdoors with Kev. Matt, who is taking a guiding sabbatical for a couple months (til bear season), discussed how the fishing was while he was out there. He also discussed how the drought and lack of edibles will affect bear hunting, fish and all aspects of the outdoors. Matt covers it all.
The 2nd Annual Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament was held Friday and Saturday through a three county area. We announce the top 10 in each category, big fish winners and the Legacy Award winner (highest finish for an angler 15 and younger). Denae Alamano, Tracy Pogue and Kev Jackson with all the details. Plus, Dr. Andy Hafs of the Bemidji State Aquatic Biology Program is back as we Ask The Aquatic Biologist about "fizzing" (Including "what is it?").
Bro Brosdahl is all about catching fish and he loves sharing what he knows and has discovered. He knows, for instance, that right now if you fish like you're going for bass. Plus Bro had a head start on all the new gear being debuted at icast in Orlando this week.
Also, a visit with Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service from his boat as he searches for muskies.
Brad Hawthorne of Hawthorne's Guide Service talks walleye and bass on Mille Lacs. He's been guiding every day and has all the details on what's going on now and what kind of year he's seen. Meanwhile, Mandy Uhrich is back. She's fishing a big multi-species tournament this weekend on Mille Lacs, so she's been prowling those waters too. And Brainerd Area Fisheries Supervisor Marc Bacigalupi has this week's Lake of the Week...Lake Edward.
Jarrid Houston of Houston's Guide Service is catching fish in the Duluth-Superior area. He gets us the details on Lake Superior fishing, St. Louis River fishing and even fishing in some of those "other" lakes in the area. And Bruce Anspach (unfortunately) is back. Nothing against Bruce, but when you talk to an AIS guy, it's not because things are going well. Bruce discusses the discovery of Zebra Mussels in Big Lake and what can be expected in the future. Plus other AIS topics as well.Â
Jace Peterson of Northland Tackle was on Minnetonka earlier this week and he talks about that and all the hot lakes and presentations. Plus Denae Alamano is in to update us on this weekend's Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament. Still time to get registered!
Tom Whitehead of Brainerd makes his Paul Bunyan Country debut. He talks Brainerd, Bass, Brainerd Bass and other things that don't start with the letter B. Meanwhile, Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State University talks heat. Specifically, how has this extreme heat affected the fish?
Joel Nelson of Joel Nelson Outdoors is in to talk fishing. He's been fishing all over the state so he has a lot to share. He also talks about fishing in his home area. He's from southeast Minnesota and does a lot of fishing on the MIssissippi. We even talk a little turkey hunting. Jason Boser of Fishing Fever Guide Service is also in to talk Grand Rapids area fishing. In particular, we talk the strong bite on Lake Winni, which Jason says is very surprising considering the hot weather. And a podcast bonus: Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service on Mille Lacs talks muskies and northerns.
Jamie Elting has been fishing...ALOT. He's got all the details on the Lake Bemidji Walleye bite along with some bass action and more. Meanwhile, Mandy Uhrich is back to catch us up on the Brainerd Lakes scene and it's Lake Of The Week Day. Andy Thompson of the Bemidji Area Fisheries Office has all the details on beautiful Kitchi Lake.
The Minnesota DNR website has a summer webinar series available. it airs live noon on Wednesdays and is available to view afterwards. Archery Basics was the first one yesterday and the series will also feature finding trout, bear hunting, firearms safety, rifle basics, mourning dove hunting and a live presentation from the state fair. They discuss the series and other efforts to get more people outdoors. They also discuss the growth of participation in the past year and the growth of youth outdoor activities
Dick Beardsley loves to take people fishing. (Well, yes, he IS a fishing guide after all). But he loves to take people to places they probably wouldn't fish on an average day. He talks about the secret lakes full of fish (sorry, no names) along with Lake Bemidji, the DNR Bass Advisory Group and other assorted topics.
Toby Kvalevog is on Leech Lake practically every day and he's catching fish...well, he's watching his clients catch alot of fish, anyway. Toby talks about the continued strong walleye bite on one of Minnesota's premiere lakes, along with some muskie talk as well. And we Ask The Aquatic Biologist, Bemidji State's Dr. Andy Hafs about ecosystems.
A great show today with a couple of excellent anglers. Jason Rylander of North Country Guide Service joined us from Otter Tail Lake, where he was pre-fishing the Lund Mania Tournament. He talked about Otter Tail, the tournament, Bemidji area action and the upcoming Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament. Plus, Craig Dickmeyer of Breezy Point makes his FPBC debut talking all things Brainerd Lakes and a podcast EXCLUSIVE: Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service on Mille Lacs muskies and pike.
Great stuff today! Steve Mattson of Mattson Angling Promotions talks all things Grand Rapids, including an in-depth look at one of Minnesota's truly unique lakes, Pokegama. In addition, it's Lake of the Week Day and we hear about this week's lake from Park Rapids Area Fisheries Acting Supervisor Calub Shavlik. PLUS: It's a Podcast Bonus--Mandy Uhrich talks Brainerd Lakes fishing, the latest additions to her menagerie and her new boat.
Austin Felix is in New York for the final two Bassmaster Elite tourneys of the season. Austin was the Rookie of the Year last year and is hoping for a spot in the Bassmaster Classic next year. He talks about being a pro, the northern invasion of Bassmaster and the "glamour" of professional fishing. Plus, Bemidji State Football Coach Brent Bolte is in to talk about BSU Football's 3rd Annual "War On The Shore" tourney next Saturday...and we talk a little football while we're at it.
AIS. There's a new story every day it seems. The latest is the discovery of Starry Stonewort on Pimushe Lake in Beltrami County. Bruce Anspach joins us for a wide ranging conversation about AIS in Beltrami County, what we can do, what we are learning, and what could happen in the future. Bruce is a great interview, but it's not always a fun topic. It is however, very important to anyone who cares about fish and fishing.
A great show to take us into the long Holiday weekend. Nick Lindner (who has fishing in his DNA) joins us with some great advice, plus what it's like to be a freelance outdoor videographer. He also shares some stories of his legendary family. And Mike Frisch is in to talk Alexandria area fishing and what he's been up to with "Fishing The Midwest" TV, his podcast AND The School Of Fish.
Christina Regas of the Bemidji Area Take A Kid Fishing Committee announces the six students who earned a free Lifetime Minnesota Fishing License as part of the TKF "Why I Want To Go Fishing" Essay Contest. Plus Marc Bacigalupi of the Brainerd Area Fisheries Office has our latest Lake of the Week.
DNR Conservation Officer of the Year, Hannah Mishler of Bemidji is one half of the K9 team of Hannah & Storm. They're one of just six K9 teams in the DNR. Hannah discusses her award, how she got into enforcement and what a K9 team does...theirs searches for Zebra Mussels. Plus, Garett Svir of Slab Seeker Guide Service talks Otter Tail County panfish, walleyes and bass.
Jason Durham goes to great lengths to land a 2 pound bass and serve his clients. Get all the details and his usual excellent angling insights on today's show. Jason talks AIS prevention, bass, walleyes, panfish and everything else happening in the Park Rapids area.
Travis Peterson recently took the title in the MTC Head To Head Tournament on the Cass Lake chain. The tournament is an unusual format. One person, and only one person, in the boat. He talks about the strong bass population on the Cass Lake chain and the unique solo format. Plus, a scoop on a future bass bait...and Lumberjack Hoops too. Plus, Dr. Andy Hafs of the BSU Aquatic Biology program discusses overlooked fields in the world of Aquatic Biology.
We talk to a couple of our Brainerd Lakes favorites today. Nate Blasing of S&W Guide Service talks about the Walleye Alliance and where you'll find walleyes right now. Meanwhile, Mandy Uhrich tells about a complicated surprise Father's Day gift, where to find fish and her brand new boat. But I'm not jealous.
Tournament Director Tracy Pogue stops in to talk about the 2nd Annual Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament coming July 23-24. Like last year, it's app based and wide open. You have a 48 hour window to fish ANY lake in Beltrami, Hubbard & Clearwater Counties, with Walleye and Bass divisions. Plus, Marc Bacigalupi of the Brainerd Area Fisheries Office has the lake of the week, and Steve Scepaniak is reeling in BIG fish on the BIG water.
Chronic Wasting Disease has reared its ugly head in Paul Bunyan Country. The Brainerd Lakes area has been dealing with it for awhile, but now it's in Beltrami County. The DNR has put together an action plan and it's already underway. We hear from Northwest Regional Wildlife Manager John Williams on what's happening and what hunters can expect this fall. Plus, we talk about the effects of the dry spring and early summer on wildlife and the surging popularity of turkey hunting in Paul Bunyan Country.
Pro Walleye angler John Hoyer returns to the show previewing this week's latest stop on the Cabela's National Walleye Tour. He and the other pros will be competing on Lake Erie and headquartered at Huron, OH. Meanwhile, Carl Adams of Timberline Sport & Convenience in Blackduck is reeling them in on Blackduck and other lakes on the north edge of Paul Bunyan Country.
Duane Peterson has been involved in the fishing world for a long time. But he is not a guy that says "Back In My Day". As one who's seen many changes over the years and who still relishes learning and does not fear the new, his insights are always enlightening. Plus, Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State University on another invasive species headed towards our neck of the woods...Asian Carp.
Garrett Haglin has been fishing in the Brainerd Lakes area and most recently on Vermilion. He's catching plenty of bass in both. Meanwhile, Dusty Minke is catching walleyes and getting ready for the next round of the National Walleye Tour on Lake Erie. He talks about that along with Bemidji, Leech, Winni and more.
Brady Laudon has been guiding on Bemidji area lakes this summer and he's been getting plenty of walleye action. He shares the details. Plus, Brady works for Visit Bemidji and we talk the importance of the outdoors and fishing to tourism and the area economy. Plus, he shares the details of a big fishing event (involving big fish) coming to Bemidji in late August. Plus, Doug Schultz of the Walker Area Fisheries Office has the details on our Lake of the Week. AND a podcast bonus...the latest Adventures of Mandy Uhrich!
Chad Peterson somehow found his way from the Bayou to Alexandria. He loves fishing crappies and panfish and of course spends a lot of time (now) doing hardwater angling. We find out where the hot bites are AND ask him whether he likes the bayou better than Minnesota. Plus, Nick Cekalla from Eye Crazy Guide Service updates us on a really good walleye bite on a couple of legendary lakes...Mille Lacs and Leech.
The Red River of the North is famous for its huge and plentiful channel catfish. Many a Paul Bunyan Country angler has ventured west for some serious catfishing on the Red. But if things go the way the DNR hopes, channel cats will not be the only lunkers lurking in the muddy waters of the Red. Lake Sturgeon are being reintroduced into the Red River Basin as well and that means the future could find alot of broken rods at the bottom of the river. Nick Kludt of the Detroit Lakes Area Fisheries office has all the details on how the DNR hopes to make it happen. And we talk catfish, too. How can you not?
They called themselves Team Lucky and you could say they lived up to their name, since Kelly & Rylee Curb brought in 20 pounds of fish at last Satuday's Knights of Columbus Walleye Classic and bring home $20,000. But considering Kelly has won the Leech Lake Walleye Tourney twice...and now the KA/KC Walleye Classic twice...there's more than luck involved. We hear from the champs, plus Chris Thury stops by to preview this Saturday's Bemidji Cass Muskies Inc. Tournament. And Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State University talks zebra mussels.
Great fishing minds on today's show to get you ready for the weekend. Jason Freed of Leisure Outdoor Adventures talks Leech and Vermilion. Charlie Worreth of Charlie's Gone Fishing Guide Service on the Winni, Deer River and Grand Rapids areas, and Mandy Uhrich talks Brainerd Lakes fishing and this weekend's Cross Lake Lions Multi-species tournament.
We are talking alot about the Knights Of Columbus Walleye Classic. It's the 20th Anniversary with a bigger field and larger purse than ever. Today, a look back to the turn of the century (21st that is), when it began as the Kraus Anderson Walleye Classic. Bob Fitzgerald of Kraus Anderson details how it all began. Also today, Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service tells the story of the 55 inch muskellunge he and a client boated earlier this week. Check out the Paul Bunyan Country Facebook page for pictures. And it's Lake of the Week Day too. Enjoy!
The Knights Of Columbus Walleye Classic is BACK and the 20th Anniversary event has just been approved of in person participation. That means the Awards Ceremony will be open at the waterfront Saturday. We'll get the latest from K of C Tournament chair John Marcum and committee member Joe Czapiewski. Plus, Dave Weitzel of the DNR joins the show to discuss the response to the new panfish regulations that went into effect on about 100 lakes statewide March 1st as part of the Panfish Technical Committee recommendations.
Well, actually the anglers will determine that. But Tourney Angler will be the catch, photo and release software used by the Knights of Columbus Walleye Classic this weekend. Nick Von Holdt and Mike Hendricks are two old Bemidji High School classmates who came up with this program and now it's being used throughout Paul Bunyan Country. We hear their story today.
The pride of Kenora, ON, Jeff Gustafson has earned a spot in the 2021 Bassmaster Classic, the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing. He's in Fort Worth, TX all week with the tournament set for Friday-Sunday. We check in with Gussy and find out what Bassmaster week is like. Plus, we hear from Dr. Andy Hafs of Bemidji State on fish anomalies.
Star Power this weekend on Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country. Muskie guides Kevin Cochran and Steve Scepaniak weigh in on the opener. Kevin will be in Bemidi area waters and Steve is headed to Mille Lacs. It's been a strong walleye bite for Dick Beardsley, so strong he hasn't even been able to go bass fishing yet. And Mandy Uhrich recounts her strong weekend on Cass Lake and talks about what we can expect in the Brainerd Lakes area this weekend.
Kev Jackson had the opportunity to talk with DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen, Minnesota's first female commissioner. He took advantage and discussed topics across the broad spectrum of natural resources. Fishing, hunting, AIS, CWD, non-game wildlife, parks and recreation, trails and forests and getting more women and girls involved in the outdoors.
It's another monster show! We get the latest on hot Brainerd Lakes bites with Nate Blasing of S&W Guide Service. Isaiah Hahn of You Bet Guide Service is counting down the hours (literally) until the muskie opener, and Bemidji High School Senior Logan Jensen is the latest Lumberjack to be recruited to play collegiate sports. But he's the first to be recruited for Nordic Skiing...and Fishing. Kev Jackson talks to them all on today's show.
We called Chuck Hasse to get the scoop on Leech Lake fishing only to find him and partner Randy Topper fishing in Wisconsin. They're getting ready for the 2020 AIM National Championship this weekend. But he still gave us great info on Leech. Then we asked Dr. Andrew Hafs, our resident Aquatic Biologist, how schools of fish operate.
Travis Peterson has yet to catch a walleye...on purpose. He and son Jace already won a big Bass tourney on Vermilion, so that's what he's been fishing (and pre-fishing) for. However, he's going to be in the Knights of Columbus Walleye Classic, so he needs to start scouting 'eyes. We also hear from Erik Osberg of the Outdoor Report on Otter Tail County's strong season so far. And Steve Scepaniak is hopeful that there WON'T be any snowflakes on Mille Lacs.
Minnesota is the Land of 10,000 Lakes and Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors is the Show of 10,000 Awesome Anglers. We have two of them today. Brainerd Area Bass superstar Keith Tuma checks in with some Memorial Weekend Bass tips and Mandy Uhrich talks bass and several other species as she gives us some time before her Cass Lake fishing weekend. And if that weren't enough...we hike into the Chippewa National Forest for The Lake of the Week.
Gull Lake in Brainerd is the site of the 13th Annual Minnesota Fishing Challenge next Saturday. Bernie Barringer is the Tournament Director and tells us all about this HUGE event. And Jason Durham of Go Fish! Guide Service in the Park Rapids/Nevis area talks about the hot bites in that part of the state.
The Knights of Columbus had big plans for their 20th Anniversary Walleye Classic on Lake Bemidji. A huge celebration was planned with an additional 20 teams for a total of 120 and an additional $7500 in prize money to the tourney champs for a $20,000 grand prize. And then...Covid. So one year later, it's going to happen. Joeski and Tourney Chair John Marcum stop in to get us ready for a BIG day in Bemidji.
It's a busy Monday on the podcast. Mike Amble & Paul Schummer stop by to talk about their winning strategy in the Bemidji Eagles' Gary Newell Memorial Fishing Tournament; Will Pappenfus didn't have a lot of luck in yesterday's AIM Circuit opener, but the bite in Paul Bunyan Country is HOT and he has the details; and Dr. Andy discusses the importance of light in an ecosystem.
Bruce Jean of Rainy Lake Guide Service was actually on Mille Lacs opening weekend, and Mandy Uhrich is splitting time between turkeys in the woods and fish in the lakes. We hear from two GREAT anglers on today's show, so you should be amply prepared for a weekend of fishing!
Lake Winnibigoshish is another one of the key waters in Paul Bunyan Country, so we annually shine the spotlight on it. Dave Weitzel of the Grand Rapids Fisheries office describes its strengths and challenges and tells us about a strong set of year classes that will be hitting eater size most likely mid to late summer. Plus, Doug Schultz of the Walker Area Office has the details on our Lake of the Week from the Backus area.
Carl Adams of Timberline Sports in Blackduck was surprised opening weekend. The bite was HOT for the opener, but some of the hottest bites weren't on lakes he expected...and one of the quieter spots was a big surprise too. Plus, another spotlight day as Bemidji Area Large Lake Specialist Tony Kennedy discusses all things Cass Lake (and the chain).
The great thing about a conversation with Matt Breuer of North Country Guide Service, it's going to cover a lot of ground. Matt fishes for everything, hunts for everything, and forages for everything. And when the fishing opener, turkey hunting season and Morel season all converge, it's 30 plus minutes of awesome conversation.
After a couple years off, the Bemidji Eagles Gary Newell Memorial Walleye Tournament is back this Saturday. Aaron Schmitz has all the details. Plus, Austin Williams of Lake Country Outdoors talks opening weekend fishing in the Brainerd Lakes area and we Ask The Aquatic Biologist if being caught and released a number of times affects a fish's lifespan.
Bro Brosdahl and Toby Kvalevog have been part of the what we call the "League of Extraordinary Anglers" for years. They've been regulars on the show for a long time and today, you'll find out why. Passion, intelligence and personality. A great way to start your walleye opener weekend.
Brainerd Area Fisheries Manager Marc Bacigalupi joins us to spotlight another important Paul Bunyan Country Lake in the Brainerd Lakes Area...Gull. Plus, DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen on the Governor's Opener, Steve Scepaniak on the Opener and we head to Park Rapids to check out the Lake of the Week.
Another amazing Paul Bunyan Country Lake gets the spotlight today...DNR Mille Lacs Area Supervisor Tom Heinrich talks walleyes, muskies, bass and everything else that calls Mille Lacs home. Plus, Chris Steward of Heroes Helping Heroes Minnesota discusses his organization and their big fundraiser...a raffle to win a three day fishing trip with Toby Kvalevog. And Charlie Peterson of Northland Fishing Tackle previews the opener.
Baudette Area Fisheries Supervisor Phil Talmage is the guest for our annual Lake Of The Woods Preview. The walleye numbers remain extremely strong and, of course, it is one of the premiere places to find monster sturgeon. The Lake also features a ton of bass, muskies, northerns and panfish. It's pretty much got everything and we go over it all as the Walleye Opener countdown continues...
Red Lake is an amazing (and amazingly HUGE) chunk of water. It is, of course, loaded with walleye and also has a strong population of trophy Northerns. And you'll still find some monster crappies too. Tony Kennedy, Large Lake Specialist in the Bemidji Area Fisheries Office talks all things Red Lake. Plus, Dr. Andy is back to answer another question. This time, best ways to keep fish safe and healthy when we're catching and releasing.
Granted we're still a month away from the Muskie opener, but a fun show to wrap up the week as Brad Mathewson of Wolf River, WI joins us to talk about his book "Musky Slayer's Bible". The book is loaded with stories and one liners...and even some muskie advice. Brad shares a few of the books tales and much more.
Today marks the first Lake of the Week, and we head to the edge of the whitefish chain for this excellent lake. And as long as we're over there, we check in with Brainerd Area Fisheries Supervisor Marc Bacigalupi and put the spotlight on the Whitefish chain, one of the gems of Paul Bunyan Country and the Brainerd Lakes area.
With the Fishing Opener looming on the horizon, time for us to put the spotlight on some of the Paul Bunyan Country gems. One of the nation's best sport fishing lakes is Leech Lake and we get the details on Muskie, Bass, Walleyes, Northern and Panfish. Leech has them all...in spades! Walker Area Fisheries Large Lake Specialist Carl Pedersen goes deep on Leech.
Henry Drewes is back to continue the season starting conversation on the "state of the fishery". Plus, Covid-19 is going to wreak havoc with Bemidji's Take A Kid Fishing event this year. However, Christina Regas of the committee says they're still committed to getting kids fishing. So, they're having their first ever Essay contest and the winners earn a Lifetime Minnesota Fishing License! We've got the details...
Less than two weeks away from the Walleye Opener. That mean we go all fishing all the time...well, everyday for 20 weeks anyway. Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors will be "Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country" for the next few months. And we kick it off like we do every week with DNR Northwest Regional Fisheries Manager Henry Drewes. PLUS! After a Covid-19 enforced hiatus, Dr. Andrew Hafs is back. We will once again ASK THE AQUATIC BIOLOGIST!
A few weeks ago, Beltrami County residents got some bad news...the first deer with a postive for Chronic Wasting Disease. The DNR's Wildlife Health Program Supervisor Dr. Michelle Carstens discusses what to expect and shares good news on the CWD situation in Crow Wing County. Plus, Jared Shypkoski of Dickinson, ND shares the details of his battle to reel in the new North Dakota State Record Walleye. And Steve Scepaniak is ready for some panfishing.
There aren't many people who DON'T like birds. The chirping when you go outside in the morning, the action at your feeders, it's all part of the Paul Bunyan Country tapestry. BSU Wildlife Professor Dr. Brian Hiller is fascinated with birds, and so, apparently, is senior Victoria Simons. They discuss their study of Eastern Bluebird populations and migrations in Paul Bunyan Country. Plus, Stream Trout season is underway and Paul Bunyan Country has thousands of miles of trout streams. DNR Fisheries Specialist Tony Standera has all the details.
Jarrid Houston of Houston Guide Service caught himself a big old walleye on Green Bay. He gives us the details and discusses the awesomeness that is Green Bay (the Bay itself...NOT The Packers) and we talk all things Duluth-Superior. Plus, Will Pappenfus of Eye Crazy Guide Service and his bud had an AMAZING walleye day on Rainy River. Prepare to be jealous. And we get the details on early season softwater in the Brainerd Lakes area with Steve Scepaniak.
The bears have awakened and are looking for food. We talk with Andy Tri of the Minnesota DNR on preventing unwanted dining in your yard and all things bear. Plus, Steve Scepaniak can only clean his tackle so much. What will he do when the lakes are completely clear?
Sturgeon and sharks. Sturgeon are 200 million or so years old. Sharks have been around for 450 million. Bruce Jean catches sturgeon every spring on Rainy River. Meanwhile Tara Hokuf landed a seven foot shark in Florida. We talk about both, plus Bruce talks early season walleyes on the Rainy and Tara talks the upcoming turkey and mushroom seasons. It's a potpourri of topics on Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors.
We love fishing and hunting. But we also love birds at the feeder, squirrels scampering through the woods, birds chirping on our morning walks and of course...eagles and trumpeter swans. All of that is part of the Minnesota DNR's Non-Game Wildlife Department. We talk with Information Officer Lori Naumann about all things non-game. Plus, Dick Beardsley is back and talks about his recent South Dakota walleye trip (it wasn't ice fishing) and Steve Scepaniak is between seasons. He discusses what he's doing to get ready for the next one.
One of the great things in Paul Bunyan Country is Bemidji State University. Another great thing in Paul Bunyan Country is the outdoors...thousands of lakes, rivers, wetlands, forests and more. And when you put those two together, you have a pretty incredible Aquatic Biology program. For years, we've featured a segment called "Ask The Aquatic Biologist". This week, it's "Ask the Aquatic BiologistS. The whole staff discusses Minnesota's ONLY four year Aquatic Biology program. Also today, Keith Tuma of Brainerd just won his first ever Bassmaster Open and is headed to the Classic. He gives us the details and discusses bass fishing in Dixie vs Paul Bunyan Country, and Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service is still Hardwater Fishing on Mille Lacs...at least for the next week or so.
Paul Bunyan Country's favorite Canadian Gussy has just claimed his first ever Bassmaster professional tournament win. We'll get the details. Plus, Matt Breuer and son were hunting gators in sunny Florida and Steve Scepaniak of Predator Guide Service has a couple of great tips on catching fish this time of year.
Turkey season is coming and John Wiliams of the NW MN Regional Office joins the show to talk about the growth of Wild Turkey AND Turkey hunting in the area. Plus, now that Muzzle Loader season is done, we recap the deer hunting season(s) and get a CWD assessment. Plus, guide Beef Sathre talks Lake of the Woods and getting ready for dinosaur season. What the...? Tune in for details!
The DNR Panfish Improvement Initiative had done its work and now the regulations kick in. Monday, March 1, many lakes throughout Minnesota and several in Paul Bunyan Country have new Bluegill regs. In the Brainerd area, crappie is also involved. We hear from Acting Bemidji Area Fisheries Supervisor Andy Thompson and Brainerd Area Supervisor Marc Bacigalupi discuss the changes. Plus, we hear from BSU Assistant Professor Dr. Jake Haus on the Wildlife Biology Program and a couple of projects he and his students are working on.
Jason Durham has been on the ice in the Park Rapids/Nevis area this winter, while Garrett Svir has been on the frozen lakes of Otter Tail County. They're both pulling in plenty of fish. We get the details on this week's show.
John Hoyer is busy, hunting, fishing, golfing, fishing, fishing, and then fishing. He's got a great thing going right now, and he's not afraid to admit it...and be thankful. We get the latest from John , and we talk with Dr. Brian Hiller, Professor of Biology-Wildlife Specialist at Bemidji State University. If you are a high school student who loves the outdoors, you may want to take a listen.
Jeff Gustafson has left Kenora, ON for Florida, the first stop on the BASSmasters Elite Series. We talk Bass and get the details on how the ice bite has been on his side of Lake of the Woods. Plus, Will Pappenfus of Eye Crazy Guide Service has the details on ice fishing in the Bemidji area.
Dick Beardsley's been catching perch and crappies...and a few walleyes too. The mild winter means he's had the opportunity to fish...a lot. And it means he's been able to try many more places. He talks hot bites and baits, and give us some ideas on where we might hunker down in Paul Bunyan Country if we're looking to score in the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza next Saturday.
Once again this week, we preview the new STATEWIDE Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza. And since you can fish it anywhere thanks to Fish Donkey, we check in with Carl Adams of Timberline Sports to find out where you might go in Paul Bunyan Country if you're angling to win.
The Brainerd Ice Fishing Extravaganza is back January 30th, but rather than 10,000 holes on Gull Lake, it's 10,000 lakes. Using the Fish Donkey app, all publicly accessible lakes are eligible. We get all the details from Tournament Chair Benji Thoennes.
He loves ice fishing...and the season is off to a great start. So we check in with Brian "Bro" Brosdahl for all the details on the early ice bite. Plus the hottest new products, safety first, and Bro's now a YouTube star. We've got all the details right here on Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors!
Northwest Minnesota Regional Wildlife Manager John Williams recaps deer season thus far...there's still a few muzzleloader hunters out there...and recaps other seasons as well. Plus Annette Drewes & Dr. Mur Gilman of the Bemidji Cross Country Ski Club discuss all things skiing as we wait for snow.
What a show!! Bruce Jean talks Deer Hunting and Fall Fishing on Rainy Lake and beyond. Plus, Bemidji area deer hunter Dan Peterson had to figure out what to do when two people shot the same deer; and Patrick "Patches" Olson of The Lone Angler podcast teams up with fellow podcasters for a virtual ice show.
Dick Beardsley is channeling his inner Adam Thielen, catching footballs in South Dakota (footballs with gills). Meanwhile, we chased down Toby Kvalevog as he was coming home from a Deer Hunting trip to southeast Minnesota and talked about the joys of solitude, deer hunting, and of course, a little fishing.
It's practically a state holiday. Actually, it's a MUCH bigger deal than most holidays. It's the Minnesota Deer Opener and it's this weekend. So, Kev Jackson covered it all. He talks with Northwest Regional Wildlife Manager John Williams on the deer numbers and health in the region, as well as CWD. He checks in with DNR Conservation Office Brice Vollbrecht to talk safety and statutes. And once you do all that work and spend all that money to get your deer, how do you make it worth your taste bud's while? You listen to Myke Stittsworth of Stittworth Meats on keeping it fresh and clean until you get it to your favorite meat processor and on the best way to prepare it. It's Deer Hunting A-Z on Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors.
Paul Bunyan Country lost a great one. Paul Nelson, a long time guide and well known outdoor media personality, died late last week. On today's show, Bro Brosdahl remembers his best friend and Kev plays back an interview with Paul remembering his introduction to the outdoors. Plus, Large Lake Specialist Tony Kennedy discusses the Walleye Regulation change on Red Lake and Bro gives us some fall and hardwater fishing tips.
Fall Muskie fishing is traditionally the best of the year. We get the details from area muskie guide Kevin Cochran. In addition to discussing the bite and staying warm, we delve into Kevin's opinions on the state of muskie fishing in Paul Bunyan Country and why it's so controversial to stock muskies. And Scott Anderson, Regional Director of Ducks Unlimited, updates the duck season in Paul Bunyan Country so far, previews a fun event coming up at the end of the month and discusses the right guns and dogs for duck hunting.
Brice Vollbrecht has been a Paul Bunyan Country DNR Conservation Officer for the past 12 years. He's been on the air to talk rules, regs and safety many times. This week, though, he talks about the job itself. What's it like to be a Conservation Officer? Who's breaking rules? What rules get broken the most? He covers it all, and we even reminisce about his BSU Football days. PLUS: It's Fishomania Tag Team! We checked in with Chuck Hasse live on Leech Lake, and not only was he out guiding...the legendary Jim Flesch was with him. They both talk fishing. Chuck covers walleyes and Jim talks bass and muskies. Plus, a little Twins vent while we're at it.
The Lumberjack Fishing Team's season ended at the State Championships on Pelican Lake and we hear from Coach Chris Haley and Jacob Slough, who has wrapped up his Lumberjack career. Meanwhile, the Bemidji State Trap Club is hosting an important fund raiser for one of their own this Saturday. Dr. Brian Hiller, Club Advisor and BSU Professor of Wildlife Biology with the details. Plus, he gives us the ins and outs of college trap shooting.
Minnesota DNR Northwest Regional Wildlife Manager John Williams joins Kev Jackson to recap the most recent turkey season, discuss the current bear season and preview the many other hunting seasons on the way. Plus, Steve Ballou previews the 19th Annual Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Classic coming up next Saturday, October 3rd. For many anglers, it's the year's last hurrah.
For the fourth straight year, the United Way of the Bemidji Area is hosting a Trap Shooting Tournament at Bemidji's Northland Shooting Park. United Way Executive Director Denae Alamano has all the details. But first, Peter Janick recaps this past weekend's 53rd Annual Frank Schneider, Jr. Memorial Muskie Tournament.
Another year of Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country ends with Part Two of NW Regional Fisheries Manager Henry Drewes & The State Of Teh Fishery. Alot of great topics covered and some thank you's too. Don't forget, we still talk outdoors weekly with Paul Bunyan Country Outdoors beginning Thursday, September 17th. We'll still talk plenty of fishing but also hunting and all other things outdoors.
Well, it's been 20 weeks already and Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country is wrapping up its 30th year. As always, we wrap up the season with DNR Northwest Regional Fisheries Manager Henry Drewes' annual State of the Fishery. Part One today, along with Nate Olson of the Detroit Lakes Area Fisheries Office with our final Lake of the Week.
Steve Mattson is back to discuss fall fishing. It is definitely one of the best times to go fishing. He talks lures and presentations, how to stay warm and what the hardwater season might bring. Steve knows fishing and his insights will help you during one of the best times of the year to wet a line.
Due to a couple of Thursday's with other programming, we had a couple of great interviews we wanted to make sure made it on the air this year. Coincidentally, both lakes had the same name...La Salle. One is Big La Salle. and one is just plain old La Salle right in the middle of the wonderful La Salle Recreation Area. Mike Kelly of the Park Rapids Area Fisheries Office & Andy Thompson of the Bemidji Area Fisheries Office join us with the details.
Jason Durham of Go Fish Guide Service has all the details on the Park Rapids area fishing scene. In addition, we talk fall fishing and recap the summer. Jason always educates (he is a teacher after all) and today is no exception. Speaking of teaching, we find out how Nevis is approaching the upcoming school year.
Ducks Unlimited Regional Director Scott Anderson discusses the upcoming Bemidji Ducks Unlimited Banquet including the limited tickets due to Covid 19 and all other things going on in the duck world. Plus, acting Bemidji Area Fisheries Supervisor Andy Thompson with the details on the latest Lake Of The Week...and it's a big one.
Brian "Bro" Brosdahl is an outstanding guide and angler and he is happy it's fall. Bro's internal furnace is stuck on high and he prefers cool to COLD weather. He's also happy because fall means the walleye fishing will kick it up several notches. Today, he recaps the last few years and previews the fall bite.
We've talked about every conceivable fishing season and every conceivable hunting season (thanks in large part to Matt Breuer), but until today, we've never talked about wild rice season. And yet, wild rice is a staple of Minnesota brats, hotdishes, soups and more. So today, we learn everything there is to know about wild rice. Where it is, how you harvest, what you need, when you can do it and even how to get a license. Ann Geisen of the Minnesota DNR Wildlife Shallow Lakes Department with everything you ever wanted to know about wild rice but never thought to ask.
The Lumberjack Fishing Team had three teams competing in the Tournament of Champions and they're off to the Minnesota State Team Championships September 19th and 20th. Today, we hear from three team members and Coach Chris Haley.
The 53rd Annual Frank Schneider Memorial Muskie Tournament is coming to 25 bodies of water in Paul Bunyan Country September 11-13. We talked with Peter Janick earlier this week, but check back in because the registration deadline is EARLY this year, and you've only got a few days left! The Frank Schneider is a sign that fall is on the way and so are the cooler temps that are moving in, so we check in with Bro Brosdahl to get some fall fishing tips.
Charlie Worrath of Charlie's Gone Fishing Guide Service returns to the show to talk Lake Winni fishing. The action has been good and the future's so bright, he's gotta wear shades. We'll get all the details on Wonderful Winnibigoshish. Plus, Doug Schultz of the Walker Area Fisheries Office has all the details on our latest Lake of the Week.
We get the details on late August action from Bemidji area guide Dick Beardsley. Dick's been fishing many different lakes and is reeling in bass, crappies and walleyes. We'll get the details and the how to as well as what we can expect in the fall.
If you know anything about Matt Breuer, you know he probably has five or six freezers to store all the animals and fish he shoots and catches. He's ready for Bear. Bear season starts September 1 and he's out baiting right now. Today, Matt discusses the part of the bait, as well as the joy of the hunt, including critters you didn't even know there was a hunting season for in Minnesota. And he's still catching fish, too.
The 53rd Annual Frank Schneider Jr Memorial Muskie Tournament is coming to Paul Bunyan Country. Though sponsored by the Twin Cities Chapter of Muskies Inc, the event is run on 25 Paul Bunyan Country Lakes in September. We'll hear from the new Tourney Chair Peter Janick. He's got all the details including one very important one...the registration deadline is much earlier this year. So, listen up!
Chip Leer loves the outdoors. And his passion became his profession. He joined Kev Jackson last year to discuss his love of fishing and the outdoors, how he turned it into his profession and his feelings about being inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. It's a must listen.
When Northland Tackle created their famous line of Impulse Baits, they enlisted the help of Bemidji State Professor Dr. Don Cloutman and the BSU Aquatic Biology Department to create the scent that makes them so effective. Kev Jackson talked with Dr. Cloutman several years ago about how Northland & BSU came together and the process of creating the Impulse Baits. By the way, it was this interview that got Kev interested in creating "Ask The Aquatic Biologist" with current BSU Aquatic Biology Professor Dr. Andy Hafs. Covid and the changes it brought to Bemidji State and everyone this spring more or less eliminated it this year, but it WILL be back (as long as the good doctor is willing, of course).
Kev Jackson is out of town and so you're hearing some of his best interviews of all time. In 1955, a two week stretch of muskie fishing on Leech Lake may have been the most amazing period of muskie fishing in the history of Planet Earth. Hall of Famer Al Maas was in the midst of it and tells his story in this classic interview from 2015.
Back in 20015Dave Maas wrote an article proclaiming Bemidji State the #1 Fishing College in America. He discussed the criteria that he used to determine the ranking and why Bemidji State earned the honor.
Kev Jackson has a new granddaughter so he is out of town. Before he left, he found some of his best interviews of the past to feature this week. First up, Hall of Famers John & Duane Peterson discuss the history of Northland Tackle and their love of fishing.
August isn't typically great walleye weather to begin with and now it's been stormy. Despite it all, Jason Rylander of North Country Guide Service is grinding out some walleyes. We talk that and many other much more agreeable fish. The weekend is here and if we can get through the storms, there are fish to be caught!
Jason Freed of Leisure Outdoor Adventures checks in from Lake Vermilion. We planned on talking Leech Lake, but since he's vacationing on Vermilion we talk Vermilion angling. We also add in some Leech talk, and we have to talk High School Football. Jason and Bemidji Lumberjack Coach Brian Stoffell have a lot in common. The Bemidji-Brainerd rivalry is classic and they know each other well. On top of that, both are long time assistants who are in their first year of head coaching at a very difficult time. We've heard from Stoff on High Noon. Today we'll find out Jason's thoughts on a football-less autumn and playing in the spring.
Dusty Minke is trying to find the big walleyes as he prepares for the National Walleye Tour stop in Sault Ste. Marie, MI, which begins tomorrow. Plus, it's Lake of the Week day and this week's lake is no secret. And we get to hear from Doug Kingsley one more time as we recorded the interview before his retirement as Park Rapids Area Fisheries Supervisor.
Mountain Mike Hruza or Rockin' Hruza or Mike Hruza (he answers to them all) is back to talk Alaska salmon fishing, shrimping, ocean fishing and even a little hunting. The former DNR Conservation Officer from Paul Bunyan Country has found a home in Quinn The Eskimo Country. It's been a few years but great to have him back on the show!
The Lumberjack Fishing team has finished the qualifying tournaments in their second season and two tandems have guaranteed spots in the Tournament of Champions, and very likely a third will qualify. Coach Chris Haley recaps and previews. Plus, Part One of our conversation with Mike Hruza. It's been a few years but today part one of a two part conversation on Alaska salmon fishing.
Jarrid Houston is finding ways to catch walleyes in the usually tough month of August. He discusses pulling walleyes out of Superior, plus some of the better inland lakes in the Duluth-Superior area.
Will Pappenfus is catching fish on Cass. He details the hot bites throughout Paul Bunyan Country, including Winni & Bemidji. Plus, it's Lake Of The Week Day, and Andy Thompson of the Bemidji Area Fisheries Office has the details on this week's big puddle.
Jeff "Gussy" Gustafson checked in to update us on his last two Bassmaster Elite Tournaments in New York and how he's doing in the quest for a spot in the 2021 Bassmaster Classic. Plus, he discusses the frustration of post-U.S. fishing quarantine, but at least hockey is back!
Northland Fishing Tackle is one of America's premiere fishing brands, and they now own another legendary U.S. Brand, Bagley Baits. And though Bagley started out as a U.S. brand, we'll learn about Bagley Baits long, strange trip from Florida to Minnesota via Finland.
Kevin Cochran is one of the premiere muskie guides in the U.S. He fishes muskies, he studies muskies and he may well think like muskies. He tells us what's happening in Muskie World today.
We had tournament champions to talk with yesterday, so we pushed back our Lake of the Week a day. So today, we put the spotlight on a lake you may want to check out this weekend. Plus, the Great Bob Jensen of Fishing The Midwest stops in to talk August walleyes, bass and more.
Bryan Martinka competed in his first ever tournament with good friend (and savvy tourney vet) Dan Fuller. Bryan is now spoiled, winning the Walleye title in his first ever event. Kev Jackson gets as much info out of them as possible, they won't show all their cards...even after the title.
Jamie Elting of Grant Creek Outfitters was on his way home from vacation when we caught up with him today. He spent a few days in the Black Hills and did some trout fishing, so we talk about that. Plus, he talks Bemidji area walleye fishing as well. Meanwhile, Jason Boser talks Grand Rapids area angling. The bite is tough, but there are some fish to be found.
Joe Ohman & Sam Larsen teamed up to win the Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament Bass Division, claiming the $3,000 First Prize. They fished a number of smaller lakes and they share their techniques and thoughts on this first ever tournament.
Toby Kvalevog has had a very productive summer. He's been reeling in walleyes and muskies on a regular basis. He tells us the details of a very impressive summer on the incredible Leech Lake. Plus United Way Executive Director Denae Alamano joins Kev to recap the first ever Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament.
Travis Peterson knows a thing or two about fishing. As the son and nephew of Northland Tackle founders Duane & John Peterson, bass fishing is in his blood. With hot weather pushing the walleyes deeper, it's a good time to bass fish. He's got a ton of info for you, including gear to get if you want to give it a try. He also knows his walleyes, and has some tips for those who really want to catch some 'eyes this weekend.
The Cabela's National Walleye Tour season is finally underway in Oconto, WI. Well over 100 professional anglers are fishing legendary Green Bay and among them is the defending NWT National Champion John Hoyer. John joined Kev Jackson to talk tournament prep, pre-fishing and the amazing Green Bay (the Bay, not the football team).
Covid-19 has thrown a monkey wrench in everything, including the National Walleye Tour. Well, the season will finally begin this week on Green Bay, headquarterd in Oconto, WI. Chip Leer previews the year and the event and discusses the many changes Covid-19 brings to the forefront.
Isaiah Hahn of You Bet Fishing Guide Service talks Park Rapids area fishing. The bite is solid for all species, with walleyes a little tougher (of course). Plus, we talk Park Rapids area muskies action. Also today, Darren Amundson, creator of the Fish Donkey app discusses how it works, and how he came up with it. We're using it this weekend for the first ever Lueken's Village Foodsd United Way Fishing Tournament.
Doug Kingsley has been patiently talking Park Rapids Area Fisheries with us for many years, and after more than 20 years in Park Rapids, his long career in fisheries comes to a close. He discusses his career stops, highlights and love of the Park Rapids area. Plus, more on the Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament with United Way of the Bemidji Area Executive Director Denae Alamano.
Nick Cekalla of Eye Crazy Guide Service in the Mille Lacs & Brainerd Lakes area talks July fishing. Walleyes can be caught and Mille Lacs Bass are BUSY! Plus, one week from today, many will be fishing the first ever Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament. Dick Beardsley stops by to talk about that and his fishing success lately. PLUS!!! For the first time in 7 years, Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country Maestro Jake Jackson has created a new Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country song!!
Carl Adams of Timberline Sports in Blackduck has been fishing Blackduck area lakes his whole life. He knows how these lakes work, how to catch walleyes any time of the year and even some off the beaten path lakes. Plus, Doug Kingsley of the Park Rapids Area Fisheries Office has the latest Lake of the Week...and it's an area favorite!
Paul Nelson has been fishing Paul Bunyan Country for decades...and he's been writing about it almost as long. Today, he has the details on the hot bites and hot lakes right now. Plus, Tracy Pogue has more details on the first ever Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament next weekend. All you need is the app and to be in Paul Bunyan Country and you can fish the tourney. You don't even need to drive to a rules meeting!
Bruce Jean is back to share the details on the HOT walleye bite on Rainy Lake. When the heat slows other lakes down, Rainy is just getting better. Plus, more pressure than usual with many vacationers stopping at Rainy now that they can't get into Canada. And Mike McNiel, Lueken's North Store Director, Talks About The First Ever Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament Taking Over A Good Chunk Of Paul Bunyan Country next weekend.
Chuck Hasse spends a lot of time on Leech Lake. He's a stellar walleye guide on Leech, but he just wrapped up back to back AIM Pro Walleye Tournaments Saturday and Sunday on Leech. So Chuck knows where the walleye are and he'll give you the scoop. Tournament Talk and much more with Chuck Hasse on today's show.
Kev Jackson continues his conversation with AIS Specialist Nicole Kovar, discussing in particular, aquatic vegetation. Starry Stonewort continues to spread in Paul Bunyan Country waters and Nicole advises on what we can do. PLUS: Bro Brosdahl is back for Part 2 of his interview. He talks the rebound of Winni, bait concerns and the Panfish Initiative.
Nicole Kovar, DNR Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist out of Park Rapids, discusses the spread of Zebra Mussels in Paul Bunyan Country lakes and rivers. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day, and Doug Schultz of the Walker Area Fisheries Office has all the details.
Bro Brosdahl loves fishing. But He hates heat. It makes for quite a challenge this July. But he's finding fish and he shares all the details. Tons of great info! It had been awhile since we had Bro on the show so there was a lot to catch up on...so much that we couldn't fit it all in one podcast. This is Part One...Part Two will be before the week is out.
Chip Leer is one of the best known anglers in Paul Bunyan Country. He is a passionate advocate for the outdoors, as well as a Minnesota & National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame member. Today, he talks hot weather fishing, the MN Fish Coalition, the return of the National Walleye Tour and his new website and podcast. I'm jealous, because it's better than mine.
Cold Front Kurre spent much of his career with the DNR working to get kids and youth on the water and in the woods. His goal of mentorship was to make the outdoors a continuous (not once a season) part of a kid's life. Now, with Covid-19 shutting down much of society for a time (but not the outdoors), youth and adult fishing license sales are hitting record numbers. We get his thoughts on that, on what should happen next, and we also discuss the other thing he spent time on, state record fish.
Brent Bolte is the Bemidji State Beavers very successful Head Football Coach, but he also loves to fish, so he started "The War On The Shore", a multi-species fishing tournament last year. The Second Annual battle is set for July and we've got the details...along with some football talk.
Aaron Murphy of Leisure Outdoor Adventures has been fishing on Lake Winni and the future's so bright he's got to wear shades. Plus, he tells he's managing to catch walleyes on hot days on Leech and Cass. He also tells us all about Pokegama in Grand Rapids. Also, Acting Bemidji Area Fisheries Supervisor Andy Thompson has the details on our Lake of the Week, a little muskie gem!
Jason Durham of Go Fish! Guide Service talks Park Rapids area fishing. There are a ton of awesome lakes and right now, everything is biting...walleyes, panfish, bass, northerns AND muskies. He's got all the details, plus we talk about a number of other important topics as well.
Matt Breuer of North Country Guide Service & Promotions is catching fish. Walleyes, Bass, Panfish, you name it. Everything is biting and he shares what's working for him, and where they are biting. Take some notes...We've got a long holiday weekend of fishing coming up!
Kev Jackson interviews new Northland Fishing Tackle CEO Gregg Wollner. Gregg comes over from Rapala and is excited about his move to Paul Bunyan Country and one of the premiere tackle companies in North America and the world.
Garett Svir loves him some panfish! He runs Slab Seekers Fishing Guide Service in the Otter Tail Lakes area and he's having a blast this year. But he also chases walleyes and bass and we cover it all on today's "getting you ready for the weekend" edition of FPBC.
The First ever Lueken's Village Foods United Way Fishing Tournament is coming to the area July 24th-26th. It's a unique tournament with a unique format and should be alot of fund. Dick Beardsley and Kev Jackson discuss the details. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and today we discover a trio of lakes in the heart of the Paul Bunyan State Forest.
Jeff Andersen checks in to talk Leech Lake fishing. He's got the details on the strong walleye action and muskies as well. It's been a good season on Leech Lake so far, and according to Jeff, it's only going to get better. He's got all the details on today's show.
Steve Mattson has been fishing the lakes in the Grand Rapids area his entire life. He's got some great insights on the best known lakes like Winni & Pokegama, as well as the many other lakes that dot the landscape. Walleye, Bass and more, Steve's got some great info for us today.
Northland Fishing Tackle founder and National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Famer John Peterson returns to FPBC to talk all things fishing. John's been catching walleyes and he's got some great ideas on how to get them right now. He also talks bass and the explosive growth of fishing this spring.
The Bemidji High School Fishing Team opens its season with a huge high school tournament on Leech Lake this Sunday. We hear from Coach Chris Haley, along with team members Tyler Simon and Logan Jensen. We'll talk details on how High School Fishing works, how the program got started and what they expect to see on Leech Lake this weekend.
Bryan "Beef" Sathre moved up to Baudette and he's got the details on Lake Of The Woods...Walleyes And Sturgeon And Bass, Oh My! Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and we check in with Andy Thompson of the Bemidji Area Fisheries Office for all the details.
Jace Peterson has fishing in his DNA...literally. The son of Travis Peterson, the grandson of Duane and the nephew of John, he's been fishing since before he was baptized...probably. He's now a member of the Bemidji State University Fishing Team and works at Northwoods Bait. He talks hot bites in all species, and why he loves bass.
Austin Williams of Lakes Area Outdoors checks in to talk Brainerd Lakes fishing (primarily bass) plus a couple trips to Vermilion and Mille Lacs. Also, Tracy Pogue discusses a very cool new tournament coming to Bemidji...kind of. It's the Lueken's United Way Fishing Tournament and though it benefits the United Way Of Bemidji Area, the fishing area is...a little bit wider. All the details on today's show.
Dick Beardsley of Dick Beardsley Guide Service joins Kev Jackson to talk Bemidji area fishing. Walleyes are biting on Bemidji, but the full fledged June bite is yet to come. However, Dick says the bass bite is very good right now on many area lakes, and we whet your appetite for a big event coming soon!
Brad Hawthorne of Hawthorne's Guide Service makes his Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country debut. Brad says the bite is HOT on Mille Lacs...and he's talking pretty much everything. Action is fast and furious on the lake right now and it is busy on the lake.
Will Pappenfus of Northwoods Bait joins Kev Jackson to talk Bemidji area fishing as we get ready for the weekend. He talks hot lakes, hot baits and what's coming next. Plus, it's Lake Of The Week Day and Doug Schultz has the details on a very pleasant lake.
The Park Rapids Heartland Lakes area is a great place to fish. Tons of awesome lakes, great populations of everything...walleyes, crappies, sunnies, large & smallmouth bass, and muskies. Jeremy says they're catching fish...but it hasn't even really kicked in yet.
Mike Frisch of "Fishing The Midwest" joins the show to discuss hot bites and the best methods of June fishing. We take an in-depth look at the Alexandria area and also talk the growth of youth fishing (Mike also runs The School Of Fish).
Jason Freed of Leisure Outdoor Adventures talks Leech Lake fishing. The walleye bite is going strong and everything else as well. Jason has all the details. Plus the upcoming Ultimate Fishing Camp and he talks a little football with Kev as well. Kev is a Bemidji Lumberjack fan and Jason, after many years as an assistant, is now the Head Brainerd Warrior Football Coach...so it couldn't be avoided.
Kevin Cochran's Musky Guide Service is one of the few species specific guide services in Paul Bunyan Country. It is all he guides for and it is all he fishes for. So he's the guy we go to when it's muskie time. And the alarm goes off this weekend.
Charlie Worrath of Deer River is back to talk Grand Rapids/Deer River area fishing including Big Winni. But he's find the best bite up north. Plus, Nate Olson of the Detroit Lakes Area Fisheries Office with the details on the latest Lake of the Week.
Gussy is gung ho! Jeff "Gussy" Gustafson has been have a blast catching walleyes and smallmouth in the shallow bays on Ontario's side of Lake Of The Woods. Plus, he's hitting the road for Alabama. The Bassmasters season begins next week. Great stuff from Gussy today!
Bob Jensen of Fishing The Midwest talks about the amazing June fishing. Walleyes are biting, bass are biting, panfish are biting, and muskie season starts this weekend. Plus the weather is great! And Joeski of the Knights Of Columbus Walleye Classic reminds us that although the 20th Anniversary tourney has been pushed back a year, the Boat, Motor & Trailer Raffle is still on. Details on how you can get tickets.
Jamie Elting has been fishing walleyes all spring, with the bulk of his efforts on Lake Bemidji. He gives us the details and talks about his success on a smaller walleye lake in the area...the proverbial Lake X. But mainly it's all things Bemidji.
Grand Rapids Area Fisheries Supervisor Dave Weitzel is also the Co-Chair of the DNR's Panfish Technical Committee. Their goal: Get big bluegills back in Minnesota waters. He tells us how they plan to do that, and where they are at in the process.
Joel Nelson of Joel Nelson Outdoors makes his Fishin' Paul Bunyan Country debut! He talks walleyes and panfish, plus it's Lake of the Week Day and we check out another gem in the Park Rapids area.
With no National Walleye Tour at the moment, professional walleye angler Dusty Minke has been has been fishing Paul Bunyan Country, particularly Leech lake. We get all the details and tips on spring fishing in PBC.
Jason Rylander of North Country Guide Service & Promotions is catching fish on Lake Bemidji. As a guide, he's thrilled to be able to have people in his boat again, but as an extrovert, he's missing the big tournament and fishing league crowds. We cover the challenges of a new era of fishing, the good news of more anglers and a hope for a more social future.
Travis Peterson has wrapped up his very successful run as Bemidji High School Boys Basketball Coach. We assume that means more fishing time! Today we talk with Travis about the change, the Bass opener, and much more. Plus, Isaiah Hahn of You Bet Fishing Guide Services talks about a strong start to the season in the Park Rapids area.
John Hoyer is the defending National Walleye Tour champion. He's actually a two time champ and he loves fishing walleyes and muskies, and says they have alot of similarities. We also hear his story on how he made his way to the top of the heap. Plus, it's Lake of the Week Day and Andy Thompson has the goods on this very well known but often overlooked gem in Bemidji.