Did you know this past summer, the MN State Legislature approved a historic $98.1 Million in funding?  Much of this success was due to the efforts of a 501(c)(3) non profit sportfishing group called MN-FISH.  “This is a moment that Minnesota anglers should celebrate,” said Ron Schara, president of the non-profit group MN-FISH. “This investment in fishing shows state leadership understands the economic and cultural importance of sport fishing in Minnesota, and the need to maintain it.”

With member and benefactor support, MN-FISH was able to reach state leadership with a core message -“We need to reinvest in our valued fisheries and the infrastructure that support sport fishing.

MN-FISH is Minnesota’s only nonprofit organization formed as two entities in order to represent the fishing interests of all Anglers, Clubs, Local Organizations and Industry Stakeholders. Their intent is to give you the opportunity to have a strong voice and be heard at our State Capital, where it matters most!

Whenever a group like this gets together to discuss fishing in Minnesota, it is a good thing.

Governor Tim Walz and Ron Schara discuss fishing in Minnesota.

Ron Schara is President of the MN-FISH and at a recent MN-FISH Summit discussed the main initiatives for the group.  In a nutshell, the organization has two initiatives currently.  The first is to create more boat ramps adding to accessibility to fishing in Minnesota.  The second is to upgrade the deteriorating infrastructure of hatcheries in the State of Minnesota and ultimately do more stocking in Minnesota.

As much as it is good to discuss fishing in Minnesota, not everyone agrees what that looks like.  The MN-FISH group is advocating that much more stocking of lakes needs to be done which will really improve the quality of the fishing experience in Minnesota.

Governor Tim Walz has spoken of the importance of fishing in Minnesota and how he supports many of the efforts the MN-FISH group is advocating for.  The support of Walz certainly helps the current and future chances for the group to further achieve it’s mission.

There are two different parts to MN-FISH.   The MN-FISH Coalition, LLC is a 501(c)(4) grassroots sportfishing, marine and angler advocacy network that gives anglers a legislative voice and works to achieve public policies.   The group has hired lobbyists who work at the State Capitol looking to educate and ultimately impose upon the legislators the importance of fishing and ultimately supporting a couple of bills that would provide money to move along their efforts in Minnesota.

The MN-FISH Sportfishing Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization designed to inspire Minnesotans to restore, protect and enhance sportfishing for the present and future generations to enjoy.  This is the part of the organization the public sees most often.

MN-FISH MISSION

• Provide a strong voice for Minnesota anglers and fishing related businesses before the State Legislature and DNR regarding all things fishing.
• Advocate, protect and restore aquatic fish & spawning habitat in lakes, rivers and streams.
• Seek greater reinvestment back into sport fishing, representing a portion of the estimated $271 million in annual state taxes derived from Minnesota’s $4.2 billion fishing and marine industry.
• Support scientific and common-sense fish management for all gamefish species, and review DNR fish stocking policies and fish management programs to maximize anglers’ success.
• Advocate and promote youth fishing recruitment and fishing programs in school curriculums to sustain the next generation of anglers.
• Become a grassroots sport fishing, marine and angler advocacy network to give anglers a voice in all fishing related issues.
• Advocate and seek funding for new investment in fish hatcheries, public accesses, fishing piers and shore fishing facilities.

MN-FISH offers memberships for those who want to be part of the group.

Having accessibility to fishing is important.  Enjoying quality fishing is also part of the formula.  The MN-FISH group is working hard to create both for those who like to fish Minnesota waters.  This group is just getting started and expect to hear more from them, and about them, as the year progresses.

Learn more about Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods, Rainy River and NW Angle Lodging, Charters and Guides

This year’s predictions for ice fishing Lake of the Woods are most excellent.  Driven by a healthy population of walleyes and saugers, ice anglers are chomping at the bit to get on the ice.  Ice safety first has to be the message and constantly in the forefront of any ice fishing adventure.  As we approach a new ice season, there are some ideas that overall will lead to safer experience up at Lake of the Woods.  Here are just a few things to keep in mind when thinking ice safety.

1.  Work through a resort or outfitter.  It sure is nice to be able to head out ice fishing via an ice road, snowmobile or resort ice transportation.  In many cases, people don’t realize all of the behind the scenes work that takes place to make sure visitors are safe.  Ice workers are constantly monitoring the ice thickness and ice conditions.  Ice roads are driven each morning.  If there are problem areas that can occur in the ice, the resort either adds bridges or re-routes for safety.   Resort ice workers are constantly monitoring, plowing and repairing ice and considering ice safety for their guests.  Staying on the trail is your best bet.  If you decide to venture out on your own, be sure to know the ice conditions first.
2. Be Prepared:  Ice picks.  They aren’t expensive and if the unthinkable would ever happen, could save your life or if someone else if you would toss them to someone else in distress.  When people have fallen through the ice, one of the challenges is getting out of the water.  The ice is wet and slippery.  Picks allow someone to dig in and get a grip when pulling themselves out.  Please, invest in a pair this week.  If they don’t benefit you, perhaps someone else.
3. Markings. When following a marked trail on the ice, double flags mean caution ahead, such as a big ice chunk, crack to avoid, etc. On snowmobile trails you might actually see a caution sign. Trails in good condition are marked with single stakes or flags. If you are ever in doubt, feel free to ask.
4. Who to contact in the event of an emergency.  If you ever experience a situation in which you or someone else is in need of help, your first call should be 911.  This call is routed to professionals who have an entire list of agencies and resorts for that matter who may be able to help.  Resorts often times are right in the middle of assisting with emergencies, medial or otherwise.  With this being said, your first call should be 911.
5. Be Prepared:  cell phone. When you venture out on the ice, it is a good idea to have your cell phone charged up.  Some people will actually carry the small portable battery packs that can plug into most cell phones for a good charge.  Remember if you are out of cell range, a text can sometimes get through.
6. Be Prepared:  Clothing.  A good rule of thumb is to be over prepared.  If you are venturing out on a snowmobile, in your car or even with a resort, having warm clothing, a hat and gloves can be crucial in the event of a breakdown, snow storm or other situation that can occur.  Some of the ice fishing suits have flotation capabilities and is one more level of security in thin ice conditions.  The boy scout motto, “Always be prepared”.
7. Be Prepared:  Vehicle.  Whether you are traveling up to Lake of the Woods or headed out on the lake, it is a good idea to have your gas tank above a half a tank.  This will help with extreme freezing temps and if you would happen to run off of the road while driving. Other good items to have are a tow strap, jumper cables, and a shovel.
8. Be Prepared:  Snowmobile.  In general, it is a good idea to keep you sled tuned up and in good working condition.  Have plenty of fuel, an extra belt (know how to change it), have safety materials in the storage compartment.  Some people will carry a rope along for a rescue situation or even a tow.  Some anglers who use sleds invest in a Nebulus.  In the event you sled goes through the ice, this device is attached to your machine and has a pull cord which inflates a raft.  This raft can save you and keep your machine from going to the bottom of the lake or river.
9. Be Prepared:  GPS.  A GPS whether in your car or a handheld version can be handy.  I like to turn it on when leaving shore so I create a plot line from shore to where I am headed on the ice.  In the event of a whiteout, you will be able to follow your plot line back which will help to stay on the ice road or trail you came out of and obviously get you safely home.  If conditions are extreme and you are in a fish house with ample heat, it is a good idea to stay put until the weather clears.  Contact a resort or someone to communicate your whereabouts and game plan.  In some cases, resorts may be able to assist.
10. Don’t take chances.  There is always someone who is the first one to walk out, take out an ATV or drive a vehicle.  Let the resorts who are trained, who are on the ice daily and have years of experience guide you in what can be used and what is too heavy for the ice conditions.

A big thank you to all of the resorts, ice workers, various agencies around Lake of the Woods including the police departments, fire fighters, local sheriff departments, the MN Highway Patrol, Coast Guard, Border Patrol, U. S. Customs, Canada Border Services Agency, MN DNR, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Valley Med Flight and anyone else who helps with ice safety and has ever assisted or is willing to assist in an emergency situation.

This quick video will give you an idea of near white out conditions and how the wind can whip up on the ice of Lake of the Woods and why it is so very important to be prepared, have the right equipment and have a plan of action while on the ice.  Being prepared for this is part of ice safety prep.

This year is expected to be an excellent year of ice fishing.  Let’s think ice safety first, walleyes second!

Click Here to return to Lake of the Woods Tourism

Click Here for a list of Lake of the Woods Area Resorts and Ice Fishing Outfitters

If you need a change of employment or housing or just a change in general, please consider Lake of the Woods as your next option. Maybe you’ve come to the area to visit, vacation, or fish, but you might consider this area as one of the best locations to be employed and also enjoy your favorite sporting options.

Lake of the Woods County isn’t just a great place to fish, hunt and enjoy the great outdoors, it’s an excellent place to do business. Not only is there a steady flow of visitors, there is a thriving local economy that boasts an educated workforce, world-class technology and an abundance of resources for those interested in opening, relocating or expanding a business. This area is a dream getaway.  Lake of the Woods employment opportunities abound.

People visit Lake of the Woods County and Baudette for the stunning international waters and the breathtaking scenery of Northern Minnesota. Lake of the Woods offers four seasons of world-class fishing, a hunter’s paradise and a vast array of outdoor recreation.  Winter is actually the busiest season at Lake of the Woods.  The world class ice fishing, consistent ice conditions, daytime bite, millions of walleyes and saugers, and great resort community cater to anglers from many regions.

Employment Opportunities!

Have you ever thought about working in an area you love to vacation?  There are a variety of opportunities and many have taken the step to work where they play.  Imagine fishing, hunting and simply living in an area people travel across the country to get to! We are located at the tip of Minnesota and also see the border crossing into our neighbors in Canada. All you need is a passport to visit this great country to the north.

Quality healthcare and education.  People stay in Lake of the Woods County because of the community. We take pride in our outstanding healthcare and nationally-recognized education with Lake of the Woods Schools ranking very high in Minnesota schools. There are positive things happening in town, such as the Lake of the Woods International Arena that is open for hockey teams, ice skating clubs and free skating at no cost. Amazing!

Housing Availabilities!

This author believes that Lake of the Woods County is one of the safest places in the country to raise a family. We are a small community but there are so many great advantages to living where everything is accessible and the quality of living is so enhancing.

This area has quite a new apartment building which is within the realm of affordable housing. It features 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and is located withing walking distance of employment possibilities, post office and shopping.

The Baudette Housing Authority also has 20 houses that it rents for low income families. Two other apartment buildings are also available for low income families. There are a number of private citizens who rent out houses and there are quite a few realtors in town who would love to share their options to buying a new home.

The City of Baudette is the county seat.  Whether looking to raise a family, grow your company or just looking for a change in scenery, for many, Lake of the Woods offers a better way of life.

The winter months are here and resorts are looking for good people to take advantage of excellent Lake of the Woods employment opportunities. Again, winter fishing on LOW is known to be some of the best in the world. Look no further than Here for many of the employment vacancies!  Many resort owners also offer housing as an option.

Visit www.gethookedforlife.com for more valuable information and also www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com.

Visit www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging when coming to explore your employment possibilities and look for housing.

See our FaceBook page at: www.facebook.com/lakeofthewoodsmn

St. Paul Ice Fishing Show Info

Friday, December 1 – Sunday, December 3, 2023

Swing by and say hello at the Lake of the Woods Tourism booth #403 during this years St. Paul Ice Fishing Show taking place December 1-3, 2023 in St. Paul.  This is the largest ice fishing show in North America and showcases the top destinations, latest equipment and top ice anglers in the industry.  If you like ice fishing, this show is for you.  For people who like ice fishing, this is an incredible opportunity to learn about the latest and greatest equipment and tactics in the ice fishing industry.

This show is a great opportunity to swing by and talk ice fishing with Joe Henry of Lake of the Woods Tourism.  Maybe you have questions, such as…

-I would like to take my dad and son up ice fishing this year, what do you recommend?

-Some girlfriends and I want to have a girls weekend on the ice, any ideas?

-What are the state regulations if we want to have a fish fry while staying overnight in a sleeper fish house?

-What are the current rules to travel up to the NW Angle?

Whatever your questions, we are happy to chat Lake of the Woods fishing at this years St. Paul Ice Fishing Show!

Join us at the St. Paul RiverCentre to shop more than 190 exhibits with products and services dedicated to the die-hard ice fishing and winter sports enthusiast. View all new ice fishing products, including fish houses, augers, underwater cameras, digital fish finders, rods and reels, tackle, accessories, apparel and much more!

The show will feature all new merchandise at a variety of price points to fit any budget. Whether you are an avid fisherman looking for a few new accessories, an experienced angler in need of an upgrade, or totally new to the ice fishing scene, you will find what you are looking for at this show!

This show is a great opportunity to stop by the Lake of the Woods Tourism booth and talk ice fishing.  We will have the latest Lake of the Woods Visitor Guide which is always a great resource for resorts, outfitters, maps and other pertinent info about Lake of the Woods.

While you are at the ice fishing show, enter your name to win an ice fishing trip to the Royal Dutchman Resort located on the beautiful Rainy River.  The Royal Dutchman features a variety of ice fishing options including traditional ice fishing on Lake of the Woods for walleyes, saugers, perch, eelpout, pike, crappies, tulibees and whatever else swims the waters of this big lake.

In addition, they offer ice fishing for sturgeon.  When ice conditions are good, they will personally guide you to some good sturgeon areas on the ice of the Rainy River.  This is a unique adventure that is best done with the help and supervision of expert ice guides.

In addition to the Lake of the Woods Tourism booth, there are numerous Lake of the Woods resorts at the show sharing information, open dates, pricing and package options.  This is a great way to meet owners and staffs of area resorts and better understand what area of the lake and what resort or outfitter fits you the best.  Gain an understanding of what part of the lake they fish, how they follow walleye movements throughout the winter, what amenities do they offer and any specials that might be available throughout the year.

This is also a great opportunity to talk Lake of the Woods ice fishing with people who live ice fishing throughout the winter.  They have literally seen it all and are happy to chat about various aspects of the ice fishing season.  What a great opportunity.

Each and every year, the ice fishing show features all new merchandise at a variety of price points to fit any budget. Whether you are an avid ice angler looking for a few new accessories, an experienced angler in need of an upgrade, or totally new to the ice fishing scene, you will find what you are looking for at this show!

Top Clam Ice Fishing pros will be talking ice fishing with a number of informative seminars each day.  There is good food, lots of energy and some of the most recognizable faces in the ice fishing industry.

Friday, December 1 – Sunday, December 3, 2023

Click Here to view lodging options around Lake of the Woods.

Click Here to go to the Lake of the Woods Tourism website.

New MN Law: It’s Now Illegal to Place ANY Garbage and Waste on Ice

Effective July 1, 2023, it’s illegal to place garbage and human/other waste on or under the ice on Minnesota’s lakes and rivers. Garbage, rubbish, cigarette filters, debris from fireworks, offal, the body of a dead animal, litter, sewage and any other waste needs to be stored inside your shelter, motor vehicle or any other conveyance or inside a container that is secured to your shelter, motor vehicle or conveyance. The fine is $100, plus administration and other fees.

To do your part:

• Make a plan for trash and waste removal before you hit the ice.
• Use colored garbage bags, which are easier to see.
• Do not place your garbage and waste on or under the ice, it’s the law.
• Make sure all garbage is secure before departing.
• Remove all wood blocking, insulation and materials when moving a fish house.

Introduced by Representative Andrew Myers during the 2023 legislative session, the Keep It Clean bill was a collaborative effort among the Keep It Clean Coalition, Representative Myers, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN-DNR), the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), MN-FISH, Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates and Minnesota Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MN-SWCDs). It received bi-partisan support and was signed into law in May 2023.

“In recent years, ice fishing and other forms of outdoor recreation on Minnesota’s lakes and rivers have been booming,” says Joe Henry, Executive Director of Lake of the Woods Tourism and founding member of the Keep It Clean Coalition. “It’s exciting to see more people enjoying the outdoors but with the increased activity has come an increase in the amount of garbage and human waste left on and under the ice. The new law helps address this problem.”

“Garbage and waste don’t belong on the ice, under the ice or along our shorelines,” says Robyn Dwight, President of the Upper Red Lake Association and Keep It Clean Coalition Member. “Prior to this law, it was very difficult for Minnesota DNR conservation officers to enforce any anti-littering efforts. This law is a game changer and puts the focus where it should be — on individual accountability.”

To help raise awareness of the law, the Keep It Clean Coalition is launching a two-year digital and print media campaign, funded by the Minnesota Clean Water Land and Legacy Amendment. State agencies and lake associations are also helping to spread the word.

“We’re very excited about the momentum this grassroots effort is generating,” says Ann Brucciani Lyon, Vice Chair, Mille Lacs Area Community Foundation and Keep It Clean Coalition Member. “Even before the law passed, businesses around Mille Lacs reported a significant — and much welcomed — reduction in the amount of garbage visitors were leaving behind during the 2022-2023 ice fishing season due to the awareness created by the Keep It Clean campaign. Clean water and wetlands are essential for a healthy and sustainable fishery, other forms of wildlife, and for tourism.”

As awareness of the campaign spreads, membership does too. The campaign grew from three lakes — Lake of the Woods, Upper Red Lake and Mille Lacs Lake — at the start of the 2022-2023 season to encompass thousands of lakes. It continues to grow as lake associations, chambers of commerce, national parks, MN-SWCDs, and tourism bureaus join to protect their precious water resources. For more info or to join Keep It Clean at no cost, visit https://keepitcleanmn.org/.

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About Keep It Clean: Community stakeholders at Lake of the Woods started the Keep It Clean campaign to address the growing problem of garbage and human waste left on the ice a decade ago. During the 2021-2022 ice-fishing season, Upper Red Lake and Mille Lacs Lake partnered with Lake of the Woods to raise awareness of the issue and address the problem on their respective lakes. As word of this collaborative effort spread during the 2022-2023 ice-fishing season, the campaign grew to encompass thousands of lakes. That number continues to grow. In May 2023, the Keep It Clean bill was signed into law. The new statewide law makes it illegal for garbage and waste to be placed on or under the ice Minnesota’s lakes and rivers effective July 1, 2023.

Keep It Clean website

Info about Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods Lodging