Jen Pudenz and Adventuress Magazine Shine Light on Women in the Outdoors on Prairie Sportsman TV

The world of hunting and fishing has long been filled with stories of adventure, passion, and tradition. For a long time, most of those stories focused on men. But that is changing fast, and one woman helping to lead the way is Jen Pudenz, editor and founder of Adventuress Magazine—the only all-female hunting and fishing magazine in the country.

Jen recently visited the Northwest Angle on Lake of the Woods, Minnesota’s northernmost point, where she joined host Bret Amundson to film a segment for Prairie Sportsman TV. Together, they ice fished for walleyes and saugers, sharing laughs, swapping stories, and showing viewers that the outdoors is for everyone.

Jen Pudenz is a true adventuress. She grew up hunting and fishing with her family and has made it her life’s mission to encourage more women to step into the outdoors. Through Adventuress Magazine, she shares real-life stories from women across the country, showcases expert tips and gear reviews, and helps break down barriers that sometimes keep women from getting involved.

“Women have always been part of the outdoors,” Jen says. “But for too long, we haven’t seen ourselves represented in magazines, on TV, or in the industry. That’s what Adventuress is all about—giving women a voice and a place in this world we all love.”

Her trip to Lake of the Woods was a special one. The NW Angle is known for its world-class ice fishing, incredible scenery, and friendly community. Jen and Bret spent their time fishing in heated fish houses, riding across miles of ice in bombardiers, and chasing the thrill of a bending rod and a heavy fish on the line.

Lake of the Woods is a favorite destination for anglers of all skill levels. During the winter months, fish houses are spread across the ice, with many targeting walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, and even the occasional northern pike or eelpout. Jen caught on quickly, jigging with spoons and using deadsticks to tempt the fish below. With help from local guides, she experienced the full adventure—great fishing, good friends, stunning sunsets, delicious NW Angle meals and the peaceful beauty of the frozen North.

More Women Are Getting Outdoors

Jen’s work reflects a growing trend in both the fishing and hunting industries—more women are getting involved. According to the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF), 2023 saw over 19.8 million female fishing participants in the U.S.—the highest number ever recorded. Women now make up about 37% of all anglers.

In the world of hunting, the trend is similar. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that the number of female hunters has grown steadily over the past 15 years. Women now make up more than 10% of hunters nationwide, and those numbers continue to rise.

Why the increase? Many women say they enjoy the challenge, the peace of being in nature, and the opportunity to harvest their own food. Social media, online communities, and leaders like Jen are also helping to make the outdoors more welcoming and accessible.

Various women’s programs offer support, education, and community for women new to hunting and fishing. And as more women take on leadership roles in the outdoor industry—whether on magazine covers, in television shows, or guiding trips—more doors are opening.

Making the Outdoors More Inclusive

Jen believes the future is bright for women in the outdoors, but also knows there is still work to be done. “It’s not just about having pink camo or women’s sizes anymore,” she explains. “It’s about respect, knowledge, and equal opportunities. Whether you’re on a bass boat, in a deer stand, or out on a frozen lake, women belong.”

Through Adventuress Magazine, she is creating a space where women can learn, share, and be inspired. Whether it’s a mom introducing her kids to fishing or a teen trying bowhunting for the first time, their stories matter—and Jen is making sure they’re told.

Her time on Lake of the Woods was just another step in a bigger mission. Sharing that experience with a TV audience through Prairie Sportsman helps spread the message even further: the outdoors is for everyone. If you love nature, adventure, and the thrill of the catch, you have a place here—no matter who you are.

To learn more about Jen and Adventuress Magazine, visit www.adventuressmagazine.com.

And to plan your own ice fishing adventure on Lake of the Woods, visit www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, there’s a spot on the ice—and a fish on the line—waiting for you.