This visit accomplished a number of items. First off, it was a meet and greet. In 2023, Minnesota did some redistricting and Lake of the Woods County was one of the areas which saw a new district. Last year, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach was our congressional leader. This year, it is Pete Stauber.
Second, the Congressman wanted to listen to the group and learn about how business was, challenges now and challenges they see in the future.
Finally, the Congressman had the chance to share how he feels strongly about the tourism industry in Minnesota, and specifically around Lake of the Woods. From northern Minnesota originally, he understands the way of life in these parts and how important tourism is to the entire economy. Tourism is the #1 industry in Lake of the Woods County.
The meeting was held with members of Lake of the Woods Tourism, made up of Executive Director Joe Henry, and various board members made up of owners and key management of Lake of the Woods lodging facilities and Lake of the Woods County Commissioner Ed Arnesen.
After some good conversation, the Congressman and a couple of his staff hit the sack, looking forward to a morning of ice fishing.
The group met for breakfast, coffee and juice and were shuttled via a track rig to a warm heated fish house. Providing the Congressman an idea of how various resorts and outfitters in the area cater to customers from a first hand perspective is always helpful.
Stauber quickly showed he can catch fish, pulling in some nice walleyes and saugers. It wasn’t hot and heavy, but 6 keepers and enough activity to make the few hours on the ice enjoyable.
The Congressman commented on how relaxing the ice fishing was, how he would like to bring some family members out to a fish house and how easy the resorts make it for visitors.
The Lake of the Woods area certainly appreciates the time and attention Congressman Pete Stauber and his staff paid to the Lake of the Woods area this week. Lake of the Woods County is a new county added to the 8th Congressional District and the initial support to our area is very welcomed.
Learn more about Congressman Stauber
Learn more about Lake of the Woods area
Lodging within Lake of the Woods County
