Backwoods Wisconsin

Kelly Lake

“Cold beer here! Bring on the bikinis!” Beaches crowded at Panama, Daytona, Miami and other points south brought “Spring Break” overflow to Kelly Lake! On the other hand, I suspect this might be Kelly Lake’s Jeff Levar’s idea of redneck-can’t-afford-Florida-spring-break-much-less-college-up-here-in-da-nort’ alternative! (Pic sent from Kelly Lake’s Pat Patterson. Thanks, Pat!)

Post Category: Hunting

Add comment March 29th, 2007 at 10:48pmmicrolinx

Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge

***Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River and southern end of Lake of The Woods (Baudette, Minnesota) — as of Nov. 5,
2006:

(Head): Deer and waterfowl hunting take center-stage in the Lake of the Woods area as open water fishing winds down, and anglers await legendary icefishing out of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

The last charter boat of the season departed from the docks at Sportsman’s Lodge. With snow falling gently, and a chilly breeze coming off the lake, our final two open water fishing guests found their limits on the Rainy River from Wabanica Bay north to the Sportman’s Lodge docks in 12 to 18 feet of water. The majority of the fish were from 16 to 18 inches, and green, white, and gold jigs tipped with a frozen shiner worked well. One group of independent anglers reported they limited out within two hours, fishing from Wheelers Point, south. Pink was their most effective jig color, tipped with a live chub. Ice skims are visible throughout the day on the smaller inlets and bays, and, with the forecasted highs in the mid to upper thirties and lows in the teens to low twenties, expectations for early ice are becoming more and more probability as the water temperatures are holding at just over 32 degrees. In other words, get your ice fishing gear ready to reap the bonanza that is Lake of the Woods “hard water fishing” at Sportsman’s Lodges!

Fishing in the Northwest Angle area at Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge (40 miles out on Lake of the Woods — like a remote Canadian fly-in destination) has all but come to a halt. Anyone coming off the islands is getting in before thin ice covers the bays and channels. A memorable summer and fall have left Northwest Angle regulars anxiously awaiting the winter season, which is predicted to hold the same amazing action as last year’s hard water season.

Duck hunting continues along the south shore, with Eric Lindquist — expert waterfowl guide of Quack Addicts — bringing home ducks on every hunt. Hunting has been focused on the South Shore, with 4 Mile Bay providing the most predictable action between 6:30 am and 8:00 am. Redheads, mallards and bluebills have shown up most in the mix.

Saturday, November 4, marked the opening of the firearms deer season at Lake of the Woods. The colder temperatures and recent snowfalls have hunters excited for what officials are predicting as one of the most productive deer seasons in recent years. With Lake of the Woods County providing access to Pine and Beltrami Island ­ the two largest state forests in Minnesota — hunters will find plenty of public land available to hunt for that trophy buck. The firearms season in the Lake of the Woods area runs through
November 19.

Remember that ice fishing is legendary on Lake of the Woods, and reservations are filling up fast, so get your reservation locked-in for this grand and exciting winter fishing bonanza out of Sportsman’s Lodge. (This report based on interviews with Gregg Hennum co-owner of Sportsman’s Lodges, and avid angler, hunter and staff member, Nettie Lein.)

Ask about “sleeping out on the lake” for ice fishing; and “three different ways to icefish out of Sportsman’s Lodge”. Sportsman’s Lodge also offers “Quack Addict Duck & Goose Hunts”, guided hunts in the Lake of the Woods area. And any hunt can be combined with fishing, lodging, and meal packages at Sportsman’s Lodges. For more information: Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd. NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, Ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com, __________ ***Upcoming events and activities at Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on Lake of the Woods, Baudette, Minnesota:

- Sportsman’s Lodge’s “traveling fish fry” will be doing a walleye feed, for all size groups in the coming months. Gregg Hennum takes his Sportsman’s Lodge crew, and fresh walleye all over for corporate get-togethers, special events, celebrations, promotions, meetings and “happy times” of all sorts. Gregg can do it for you, too ­ and your guests will love you for it. Contact Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., Nov. 11, 2006: “Pure Indulgence” Women’s Day(s) at Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, MN. Wonderful time for gals to come and see first-hand why all the guys flock to Sportsman’s. The weekend is reserved for wine tasting, spa by Reike’s By Design, Four-course dinner and wine pairing; entertainment; unique vendors featuring jewelry, purses, and crafts, relaxation, beautiful fall weather and scenic beauty all around you. This spectacular day is designed for women of all ages, shapes and sizes to be pampered and indulged. You deserve it! Spend the day shopping, enjoying spa treatments and wine tasting. Those that purchase a ticket by November 1st will be entered into a drawing for a day at the Spa from Reike’s by Design, and a night out at Sportsman’s Dinner and Champagne Limo Package ($200 value). Ladies, get a group together or come solo. (Guys: This would make a wonderful gift for that special woman in your life). There’s a day rate, or ask about The Stay and Play Package that includes: Drawings and door prizes, dinner, wine appetizers, one spa service, lodging for one,
continental breakfast and discount coupons — all for just $69.95. Contact
Dianna Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Calling all hunters! Special deer season traditions at Sportsman’s
Lodge:

- November is the time for gun deer hunters to get up to Sportsman’s Lodge. The opening of the gun deer season is a great time to enjoy access to over one million acres of state land, open for public use. Make your reservations now, and “reserve” that trophy buck.

- Thurs., Nov. 9, 2006: Texas Hold ‘Em at Sportsman’s Lodge.

For great action during deer season, bring your boat and try some Rainy River fishing before the ice comes! Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak
Island Lodge, Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail:
[email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com
_____

2007 Activities at Sportsman’s Lodges:

- Sat., Jan. 20, 2007: Come to Sportsman’s Lodge and be part of history in the making at the Baudette Bay Hockey Classic. This historic (outdoor) game will be broadcast live on Fox SportsNet to a viewing audience of 1.3 million households and will feature a regular season high school boy’s varsity hockey game. The Baudette Bay Hockey Classic is in commemoration of “old time pond hockey,” in conjunction with Baudette’s Centennial Celebration. This unique game will be played between Lake of the Woods Bears and the St. Paul Johnson Governors. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge.
Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected];
web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat./Sun., Feb. 3-4, 2007: Winterfest at the Northwest Angle of Minnesota, the area where Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge is located. This annual event celebrates the secluded beauty of the Northwest Angle and islands, with food, fun and fishing. Sportsman’s Lodge on the Rainy River and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge (40 miles out on Lake of the Woods) are the perfect places for you to stay and enjoy this wonderful event‹and Sportsman’s guides will see to it that your ice fishing experience is memorable. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., Feb. 17, 2007: Progressive Dinner-Northwest Angle. Tour the pure and amazing scenery of Minnesota’s northernmost point while indulging in unique and tasty dishes you’ll only find at the “top of the nation.” Warm up after this unforgettable sled ride at Sportsman’s Oak Island or extend your ride across Lake of the wood and spend the night at Sportsman’s Lodge on Rainy River. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., March 17, 2007: Annual Snowmobile Rally at Sportsman’s Oak island Lodge (40 miles from the main Sportsman’s Lodge on Lake of the Woods. Like a remote Canadian fly-in destination, with all the amenities). Join this tremendous fun time with your fellow snowmobiling enthusiasts. One of the most scenic rides you’ll ever take. Great ice fishing, Fun Run, and Radar Run. The best in food and beverage, featuring a pig roast and bonfire. Live entertainment. Raffle of a 2007 Polaris, with only 300 tickets sold! (Raffle proceeds go to local snowmobile club for trail maintenance and snowmobile promotion). See the prize snowmobile on display at the main Sportsman’s Lodge, near Baudette. Discounted lodging rates. Sign up now for this very special event. Contact Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected];
web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat. March 24, 2007: Mardi Gras at Sportsman’s Lodge. This 9th annual event will be along the lines of classic Mardi Gras excitement and fun. Includes authentic decorations, entertainment, games, dancing, and of course, thousands of beads. Free limo transportation will be provided within a 15 mile radius and hundreds of dollars in prizes will be given away for the winners of games like “The Flasher,” “Booby Trap,” and “Hurricane.” A great way to say goodbye to winter and hello to a new spring season! Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat./Sun., May 5-6, 2007: Sturgeon Tournament at Sportsman’s Lodge. Join in the excitement of the first ever sturgeon tournament hosted by Sportsman’s Lodge. Sturgeon are the largest fish found in Minnesota. The Rainy River and Lake of the woods are one of the few waters in the state that allow sturgeon fishing, and Sportsman’s Lodge on Rainy River is the perfect place to begin your sturgeon adventure. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., May 12, 2007: 2nd annual Pirate Party at Sportsman’s Lodge. Join all your mates for a memorable way to bring in the opener of walleye season. Games like “Rum Redemption” and “Walk the Plank” along with an awesome treasure hunt and costume party will provide loads of “fun and loot.” Aaarrghh! Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438;
e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- June, 2007: The entire month of June offers four wonderful community events in the Lake of the Woods area: Sat. June 2nd, Baudette’s Willie Walleye Day. Sun., June 3rd, Zippel Bay State Park Open House. Sat., June 16th, Wildflower Celebration. Sun., June 24th, Old Settler’s Picnic at Norris Camp. All of these events are open to the public, and provide great opportunities to explore the area around Sportsman’s Lodge on the Rainy River. We have great, affordable accommodations for singles and families, along with some of the finest fishing opportunities in North America. Call us for information on each of these events, and to make your reservations. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Wed., July 4, 2007: Old Fashioned 4th of July in Baudette. A grand parade, games and races. Food vendors and merchants join the fun which is capped off with a street dance on Main Street and a tremendous fireworks display over the Baudette Bay. Sportsman’s Lodge is proud to be a part of the Baudette community and offers unmatched accommodations, food, beverage and services for all. Come and enjoy everything in our beautiful Lake of the Woods area, and stay over for great fishing. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat./Sun., Aug. 4-5, 2007: Oak Island Blueberry Festival. Feast on blueberries and various blueberry goodies and recipes freshly prepared, and experience some grand fishing while you’re at this annual event. Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge is located 40 miles out on Lake of the Woods - -like a remote Canadian fly-in destination, with all the amenities. Don’t miss this super event, which is held in conjunction with the annual chili cook off. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438;
e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Fri./Sat., Aug. 24-25, 2007: Sportsman’s Lodge Third Annual Biker Rally. A great biker get-together. Fishing and fun for all! Harley raffle. Pig roast. Wrestling. Wet tee-shirt dunk tank; extended fun run, games, “ride and bite” along with the “pickle licking” contest. The best walleye fishing anywhere, along with super accommodations, food, drink and entertainment galore. Near 200 bikes will attend. Join us. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- September, 2007: September means the opening of bear and waterfowl season in the Lake of the Woods area. Call us for information about permit applications and make your reservations now. We’ve got great guides and some of the greatest hunting opportunities in North America, with hundreds
of thousands of acres of pristine public hunting land. Quack Addicts, the
affiliated hunting club of Sportsman’s Lodge has access to thousands of acres of prime waterfowl hunting land to guide you to your bag limit. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat./Sun., Sept. 15-16, 2007: Rainy River Giant Pumpkin Festival. Annual celebration of gardening and GIANT pumpkin growing. Help us celebrate a bountiful harvest, experience some fabulous fall fishing on Lake of the Woods, and stay with us at Sportsman’s Lodge. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Fri.-Sun., Sept. 21-23, 2007: 18th Annual Hands Across the Border Oktoberfest in Baudette, MN. Live bands, smorgasbord, craft fair, pancakes and sausage breakfast, polka mass Sunday morning, and authentic German food throughout the weekend. Wonderful way to celebrate the fall harvest and proud German heritage that runs deep in the local community. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., Oct. 27, 2007: Sportsman’s Lodge Annual Halloween Party. A “spook-tacular” event. Shocking drink specials, a ghoulish costume contest, frightfully exciting games, and devilishly good prizes. Haunted house décor throughout the lodge. The only thing you’ll be afraid of is having too much fun! Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438;
e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- November is the time for gun deer hunters to get up to Sportsman’s Lodge. The opening of the gun deer season is a great time to enjoy access to over one million acres of state land, open for public use. Make your reservations now, and “reserve” that trophy buck. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat. Nov. 10, 2007: Third Annual Women’s Night Out at Sportsman’s Lodge. While the men are away, the ladies will play! Join your friends for a day and evening of wine, great food, shopping and pampering, all in the name of great women everywhere. Spa experience, relaxation, no worries/no agendas ­ just relax and enjoy yourself. And guys: Make a special reservation for that special woman in your life — she’ll love you for it! This is one memorable experience no woman will want to miss. Contact Dianna Hennum for information and reservations. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com _________

***Specials at Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on Lake of the Woods and The Rainy River, Baudette, Minnesota:

Different special promotional packages are continuously offered throughout the year at Sportsman’s Lodges. And Sportsman’s Lodges will happily tailor packages to fit your exact needs, regardless of group size: Fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, family vacations, reunions, special events, weddings, and business meetings, etc.:

- Now to Dec. 1, 2006: 10 percent off of all rates at Sportsman’s Lodges. Lodging rates start as low as $35 per person, per night. Fishing packages start at only $149 per person.

- One night, one day special at Sportsman’s Lodge: Includes one night’s lodging, one all day guided fishing, breakfast, lunch and dinner, $179.00; without meals: $139.00.

- Three night, two day special at Sportsman’s Lodge: Includes two full days of fishing and eight meals. Weekend is $465.00 per person, double occupancy. Mid-week, $427.00 per person, double occupancy. Also includes fish cleaning and packaging for your trip home. AND don’t forget, at Sportsman’s you order your meals right off the menu, so, if you want steak every night, you just order it!.

- VIP Club: Stay at either Sportsman’s Lodge, or Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge two or more times in one calendar year, and you will receive a 5 per cent discount off of any package on your second stay, plus a free VIP hat.

Ice Fishing Three Different Ways at Sportsman’s Lodges:

- Sportsman’s Lodge’s Sun-Up-To-Sun-Down ice fishing: We’ll take you and your crew by Bombardier out on the big open areas of Lake of the Woods and hook you up with some of the best walleye/sauger fishing you’ve ever seen. We provide you with a hot lunch, cooked right out on the ice, then we’ll bring you back to the lodge for a feast in our dining room and live entertainment in our Sandbar. The next day you’ll be treated to a hearty breakfast and get up and do it all over again. Weekends are booking up fast. Call us 24/7 for more details on great winter ice fishing. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge ice fishing: Have you spent a couple of days on an island — in the middle of winter? It’s quite an experience, and one that produces some incredible fish. The walleyes are abundant at Oak Island, the food is hearty, and other people are scarce. The accommodations are first class all the way. Oak Island is a great place to enjoy some fantastic fishing, get away from the crowds, cozy up in our log condos and take a snowmobile trail ride. You can reach Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge
at: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected];
web: www.sportsmanslodges.com.

- Sportsman’s Sleepers Ice Fishing: Now here’s an experience: CAMPING ON THE WATER an ice fishing at the same time! No one does sleeper fishing better than Sportsman’s Lodge. Our sleeper houses are new, well equipped, and known for producing a great walleye bite. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

Contact: Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 21-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com _____

About Sportsman’s Lodges:

Family-owned Sportsman’s Lodges provide anglers and visitors year-round fishing and outdoor opportunities on legendary Lake of the Woods, out of their Sportsman’s Lodge on the Rainy River where it empties into massive Lake of the Woods; and from nearby, worlds-away, Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on Lake of the Woods, which boasts a fly-in feel, although you get there by boat for your “wilderness” angling adventures; and no need to cross
a border.

Both lodges are absolutely first-class, with complete, modern facilities, accommodations, food and beverage; superb equipment and tackle (including 27 foot, inboard cruisers, with cabin and head), “the best guides anywhere”, a caring, knowledgeable staff, and excellent package rates in all seasons.

Fishing Lake of the Woods means incredible fishing for just about any freshwater species you want — from lunker walleyes to big sturgeon, muskies, northerns, bass, sauger — and everything in between! Enjoy a delicious, memorable shore lunch (in season) while on one of Lake of the Woods’ Canadian Shield islands. And, if you crave one of those yummy shore lunches after you get home, you can arrange for Sportsman’s to bring an authentic shore-lunch to your group or meeting or special event within 500 miles of the Lodge! And don’t forget the great hunting opportunities like goose hunting in the fall, at Sportsman’s Lodges ­ and lots more. For more
information: Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, Ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com __________ __________ Reports and info compiled, written & distributed by Creative Brilliance. ©2006.
Naomi K. Shapiro or Ray Smith, Creative Brilliance
Phone: 608-827-6483; 800-975-5474 (media); e-mail: [email protected]

Post Category: Hunting

Add comment November 5th, 2006 at 09:47pmmicrolinx

Fishing and Outdoor Reports for Eagle River, Wis

Rice Lake, Wis.; Wausau/Central Wis.; and Sportsman’s Lodges, Baudette, Minn. ­ all updated every week year-round.

1. Selected headlines for this week:

- Twenty point buck taken, with walleye and muskies still producing nicely in the Rice Lake, Wisconsin area.

- Some very big bucks being taken by bowhunters, with good sized muskies and walleye hitting in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

- Deer and waterfowl hunting take center-stage in the Lake of the Woods area, as open water fishing winds down, and anglers await legendary ice fishing out of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota

- Mid-to-upper-40 inch muskies hitting off breaks at all depths in Eagle River, Wisconsin area _____

2. Editor’s note: Fall is the time of year when the biggest fish of the season are caught, and our reporting sources have asked us to remind anglers to release all muskies and “big fish” of any other species, particularly walleye, so they can reproduce and continue the wonderful fishing resource of northwoods areas. Remember, with today’s technology, a superb wall hanging or mount of any fish can be made from a photo. _____

3. General hunting note: Eagle River, Rice Lake, and Wausau, Wisconsin, along with Sportsman’s Lodge on Lake of the Woods in Baudette, Minnesota, offer great fishing, as well as some of the most rewarding hunting anywhere. Choose from geese, game birds, waterfowl, deer, wild turkey and small game. These areas provide the finest in accommodations, food and beverage, guides, entertainment, activities and services. Each would be happy to help with details and information for planning a trip to their area. Look for their toll-free / no-obligation contact information after their individual report.
__________

4. Weekly outdoor and fishing reports:

***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) — as of Nov. 5, 2006:

(Head): Mid-to-upper 40-inch muskies hitting off of breaks at all depths, in Eagle River, Wisconsin area.

The weather’s cold, and nice muskies in the mid-to-upper 40-inch range are hitting at most any depths, off of breaklines over the entire Eagle River area. Work the shore or mid-lake areas. Big suckers are your best bet, but artificials like the Suzy Sucker, Triple D, weighted Suick, or Bulldawg are also getting hits.

Walleye are biting off of break edges in 17 to 30 feet of water on Eagle River area waters. Use a jig and a minnow. Action is good. Northern are off of weed edges in 12 feet of water or less. Use a smaller sucker, or a minnow type of lure such as a Huskie Jerk. Good action. Crappies are being caught alongside the walleyes off of steep break edges. The crappies are locating right on the bottom or up to about 4 feet off the bottom. Use a crappie minnow under a slip bobber.

The deer are just coming into rut in the Eagle River area. The nicer bucks are now going to be more readily available. Grouse are still around, but, because of recent winds, have hunkered down a bit. Waterfowl are still providing good hunting opportunities. (Report for the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce based on Creative Brilliance interview with licensed guide Mat Hegy of Guides Choice Pro Shop). _____

Contact info for Eagle River:
* Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; 800-359-6315; 715-479-6400; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.eagleriver.org
* Guide’s Choice Pro Shop, 715-477-2248; [email protected]
* George Langley, Eagle River Fishing Guides Association, 715-479-8804.
e-mail: [email protected]
_____
_____

***Rice Lake, Wis. (BARRON COUNTY) — as of Nov. 5, 2006:

(Head): Twenty-point buck taken, with walleye and muskie still producing nicely in the Rice Lake, Wisconsin area.

In the Rice Lake, Wisconsin area, bow hunting action for big bucks is steadily getting better as the rut begins. A 20-pointer was just taken in the Rice Lake area, and there are “more where that came from”, so come up and see for yourself. Grouse hunting remains good, as it has been all fall.

Muskie hunters are getting nice-sized fish off of steeper drop-offs in 3 to 15 feet of water. Fish shoreline or mid-lake areas. Big live suckers (12 to 20 inches) are the bait of choice, but fish are being caught (and released) on big stick baits, as well.

Walleye action continues to be good on Rice Lake area waters. Fish hardbottom areas where the weeds used to be. Look for dead weedlines. Depth will vary from 10 to 16 feet or so, as the walleye are still not real deep. Use a jig and a fathead, or hook up a small sucker. Smallies are still being caught in the Red Cedar River below the dam, right in our in-town Rice Lake. Use a small sucker. (This report for the Rice Lake Tourism Commission based on Creative Brilliance interview with Frank Zumpf of Rainbow Home Center in Rice Lake). _________

Contact info for Rice Lake area:
*Rice Lake Tourism & Retail Development Commission: 800-523-6318; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.ricelaketourism.com
* J.C. Bear Paw Company: 715-236-7300; e-mail: [email protected]
* Frank Zumpf, Rainbow Home Center: 715-234-8116.
_____
_____

***Wausau/Central Wisconsin area (including the communities of Kronenwetter, Mosinee, Rib Mountain, Rothschild, Schofield, Wausau, and Weston) — as of Nov. 5, 2006:

(Head): Some very big bucks being taken by bowhunters, with good sized muskies and walleye hitting in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

Any hunter who has longed for a trophy buck should be up here in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area right now. The rut is in full swing, and bowhunters are doing as well as they’ve done in years. It’s actually quite “simple:” Set up in and around doe feeding areas. That’s where the biggest,
most dominant bucks are now chasing the does. Our clients are simply
astounded at the wealth of great-sized deer available. And, remember, this is BOW SEASON — you don’t have to wait for the gun deer season to bag a great buck.

Fishing in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area continues to be very good. With water temps cooling to the upper 30s, back bays and sloughs are just starting to freeze over… It’s not ice fishing time yet, but some of the backwater areas may become inaccessible to boats as we move on in November. Stay tuned.

While numbers of muskies caught have slowed, size has not! This is the time of year when you can bring in some near-trophy fish. What is being caught run from about 40 to near 50 inches. Soak a big sucker 3 to 6 feet down below a slipbobber, or run a Suick, Smitty or Bobbie Bait. Best lure color is a sucker pattern, with orange and black producing as well. Please remember to immediately release all muskies after you’ve taken a photo. There’s no need to keep a great fighter, when modern taxidermy can produce a superb quality mount from a photo. Help the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area continue as one of Wisconsin’s prime fishing venues.

Walleye fishing has been very good on Wausau/Central Wisconsin area waters. Walleye have been found in non-current backwater areas in 6 to 8 feet of water. Now, with the back bays and sloughs starting to freeze over even a little, the walleye will move back into deeper water (12 to 16 feet) in the main Wisconsin River channels, either on the River itself or on any of its
impoundments or lakes. Use an eighth-ounce or quarter-ounce jig, tipped
with a minnow. Make sure that a slow presentation is used, as the fish are becoming lethargic. Don’t “hop” your jig. Drag it right on, or just immediately off, the bottom.

Some real good-sized northern are continually being taken incidental to fishing for muskies. The northern are running anywhere from 33, to just under 40 inches. Indeed, northern fishing has been extremely productive this entire season in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area.

An important reminder for gamefish anglers: When the walleye, northern, and bass seasons close in most other areas of Wisconsin, many of the waters in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area remain OPEN ­ all year long! And don’t forget that the daily limit in our area on many waters for walleye is 5 per day, not the 2 or 3 that is prevalent in so many waters north of us.

This is a very exciting time for anglers and hunters alike in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area. Come up and enjoy BOTH! (This report for the Wausau/Central Wisconsin CVB based on Creative Brilliance interview with Wausau/Central Wisconsin area guide Phil Schweik of Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guide Services, Mosinee).

For more information about the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area:
* Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau; phone: 888-948-4748; 715-355-8788; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.visitwausau.com.
* Fishing and hunting Info: Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guides Services (Phil Schweik, John Sparbel, Pete Hilman, Craig Lemmer, Justin Gaiche);
phone: 715-693-5843; e -mail: [email protected]; web: www.hooksetters.biz. _____ _____

***Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River and southern end of Lake of The Woods (Baudette, Minnesota) — as of Nov. 5,
2006:

(Head): Deer and waterfowl hunting take center-stage in the Lake of the Woods area as open water fishing winds down, and anglers await legendary icefishing out of Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

The last charter boat of the season departed from the docks at Sportsman’s Lodge. With snow falling gently, and a chilly breeze coming off the lake, our final two open water fishing guests found their limits on the Rainy River from Wabanica Bay north to the Sportman’s Lodge docks in 12 to 18 feet of water. The majority of the fish were from 16 to 18 inches, and green, white, and gold jigs tipped with a frozen shiner worked well. One group of independent anglers reported they limited out within two hours, fishing from Wheelers Point, south. Pink was their most effective jig color, tipped with a live chub. Ice skims are visible throughout the day on the smaller inlets and bays, and, with the forecasted highs in the mid to upper thirties and lows in the teens to low twenties, expectations for early ice are becoming more and more probability as the water temperatures are holding at just over 32 degrees. In other words, get your ice fishing gear ready to reap the bonanza that is Lake of the Woods “hard water fishing” at Sportsman’s Lodges!

Fishing in the Northwest Angle area at Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge (40 miles out on Lake of the Woods — like a remote Canadian fly-in destination) has all but come to a halt. Anyone coming off the islands is getting in before thin ice covers the bays and channels. A memorable summer and fall have left Northwest Angle regulars anxiously awaiting the winter season, which is predicted to hold the same amazing action as last year’s hard water season.

Duck hunting continues along the south shore, with Eric Lindquist — expert waterfowl guide of Quack Addicts — bringing home ducks on every hunt. Hunting has been focused on the South Shore, with 4 Mile Bay providing the most predictable action between 6:30 am and 8:00 am. Redheads, mallards and bluebills have shown up most in the mix.

Saturday, November 4, marked the opening of the firearms deer season at Lake of the Woods. The colder temperatures and recent snowfalls have hunters excited for what officials are predicting as one of the most productive deer seasons in recent years. With Lake of the Woods County providing access to Pine and Beltrami Island ­ the two largest state forests in Minnesota — hunters will find plenty of public land available to hunt for that trophy buck. The firearms season in the Lake of the Woods area runs through
November 19.

Remember that ice fishing is legendary on Lake of the Woods, and reservations are filling up fast, so get your reservation locked-in for this grand and exciting winter fishing bonanza out of Sportsman’s Lodge. (This report based on interviews with Gregg Hennum co-owner of Sportsman’s Lodges, and avid angler, hunter and staff member, Nettie Lein.)

Ask about “sleeping out on the lake” for ice fishing; and “three different ways to icefish out of Sportsman’s Lodge”. Sportsman’s Lodge also offers “Quack Addict Duck & Goose Hunts”, guided hunts in the Lake of the Woods area. And any hunt can be combined with fishing, lodging, and meal packages at Sportsman’s Lodges. For more information: Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd. NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, Ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com, __________

Reports compiled, written & distributed by Creative Brilliance. ©2006. Naomi K. Shapiro or Ray Smith, Creative Brilliance 608-827-6483; 800-975-5474 (media). e-mail: [email protected]

Post Category: Hunting, Fishing, Fishing Reports, Events

Add comment November 4th, 2006 at 09:45pmmicrolinx

Fishing and Outdoor Reports

…for Eagle River, Wis.; Rice Lake, Wis.;
Wausau/Central Wis.; and Sportsman’s Lodges, Baudette, Minn. ­ all updated
every week year-round.

1. Selected headlines for this week:

- 51-inch muskie caught and released; good walleye, smallmouth and northern
bite; hunting success for grouse, geese and some nice bucks, in the Rice
Lake, Wisconsin area.

- Big buck “that will easily make the Pope & Young record book” — and “big
girls (muskies) have come out to play”, in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin
area.

- Anglers still open-water fishing and catching great numbers of walleye,
as ice starting to form on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River; strong
grouse, mallard, redhead and bluebill hunting going on, out of Sportsman’s
Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

- Muskies biting strong on suckers; deer starting to really move about,
with some real nice bow-hunted bucks being taken, in Eagle River, Wisconsin
area
_____

2. Editor’s note: Fall is the time of year when the biggest fish of the
season are caught, and our reporting sources have asked us to remind anglers
to release all muskies and “big fish” of any other species, particularly
walleye, so they can reproduce and continue the wonderful fishing resource
of northwoods areas. Remember, with today’s technology, a superb wall
hanging or mount of any fish can be made from a photo.
_____

3. General hunting note: Eagle River, Rice Lake, and Wausau, Wisconsin,
along with Sportsman’s Lodge on Lake of the Woods in Baudette, Minnesota,
not only offer great fishing, but also some of the most rewarding hunting
anywhere. Choose from geese, game birds, waterfowl, deer, wild turkey and
small game. These areas provide the finest in accommodations, food and
beverage, guides, entertainment, activities and services. Each would be
happy to help with details and information for planning a trip to their
area. Look for their toll-free / no-obligation contact information after
their individual report.
__________

4. Weekly outdoor and fishing reports:

***Eagle River, Wis. (VILAS COUNTY) — as of Oct. 29, 2006:

(Head): Muskies biting strong on suckers; deer starting to really move
about, with some real nice bow-hunted bucks being taken, in Eagle River,
Wisconsin area.

The muskie pattern is deep on Eagle River, Wisconsin area waters! Forget
the weeds, and work those points extending directly into deep water,
mid-lake humps tapering deep, or holes with sand/gravel rock bottoms. Get
your suckers (12-14 inches) at least half way down in the water column or
slightly deeper. The winds have been creating some tremendous drifts.

Casting has been dramatic and right now the hot plastic bait is the Suzy
Sucker. These things are incredible, cast well, run true, and are catching
muskies. Swim’n Joes, Bulldawgs and live actions cast with a long, slow
pull or simply jigged up and down in the depths are pulling fish as well.
Find the hard-bottom reefs and long points, and you stand a good chance of
finding some muskies in the Eagle River area.

Good walleye action in deep water all over the Eagle River area. Fish
steeper shoreline or mid-lake drop-offs in depths from 12 to 30 feet
depending on the lake. And the walleye for the most part are NOT moving
shallower towards dark, as they have been. On the Eagle River Chain of 28
lakes (the largest freshwater chain of lakes in the world), the action has
been good, but the walleyes are generally “eater size.’” Use a jig and a
fathead. For bigger fish (26 to 28 inches), albeit with less action, you can
fish either North Twin or Kentuck, and use a small sucker, or a Cubby jig
(jig with a plastic tail on it).

Some nice northern are being caught as they also move deeper because of the
cold weather. Fish off weed beds (try to find the greenest weeds you can)
in 8 to 15 feet of water, and use a good-sized chub. Hook it up through the
back so it’s “free swimming.” You’ll get action.

Don’t forget to dress for the weather, and watch your footing in the boat.
Hypothermia and accidents happen each and every year, because folks are not
prepared or are careless. The deer bow season is going well in the Eagle
River area. Hunters are bagging some good-sized bucks as the bigger bucks
are really starting to move as they finalize their pre-rut posturing.
(Report for the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce based on Creative Brilliance
interviews with Mike Michalak, and staff members of Guides Choice Pro Shop).
_____

Contact info for Eagle River:
* Eagle River Chamber of Commerce; 800-359-6315; 715-479-6400; e-mail:
[email protected]; web: www.eagleriver.org
* Guide’s Choice Pro Shop, 715-477-2248; [email protected]
* George Langley, Eagle River Fishing Guides Association, 715-479-8804.
e-mail: [email protected]
_____
_____

***Rice Lake, Wis. (BARRON COUNTY) — as of Oct. 29, 2006:

(Head): 51-inch muskie caught and released; good walleye, smallmouth and
northern bite; hunting success for grouse, geese and some nice bucks, in the
Rice Lake, Wisconsin area.

Now is a very good time to get up to Rice Lake. This past week has proven
successful for both fishing and hunting, with savvy outdoors enthusiasts
enjoying both.

Muskies continue to hit big suckers (12 to 20 inches), as the bait of
choice. A 51-incher was caught (and released) below the dam on the Red
Cedar River, right IN TOWN! Fish muskies 12 to 20 feet off of steeper
drop-offs, whether it be shoreline or mid-lake related.

Walleye are picking up steadily, with some good-sized fish being caught
(keep the “eaters” and release anything bigger ­ please!). The walleye are
not that deep. Fish 8 to 15 feet over hardbottom, off of drop-offs and
structure. Use a jig and a fathead. If it’s cloudy, you’ll have success
during the day, but generally low light hours will produce best.

Smallies are somewhat surprisingly putting on a continuous bite, even with
this colder weather. You’ll find the smallies mixed in with the walleye, in
8 to 15 feet of water, particularly around rocky ledges and off of rocky
points. Use a good-sized sucker minnow (the smallies will also bite the
fatheads you’re using for walleye).

Northern are all over. Fish 8 to 15 feet of water, in the same types of
areas as the walleye and smallies. Use a small sucker.

Crappie are off and on. Fish deep. 20 feet is a good start. The crappie
will suspend at varying depths. Start off the bottom and work your way up.
Use a crappie minnow. One day you’ll limit out. The next day, nothing.
Bluegills are all over, but not as deep as the crappie. Action can be
furious, or a turn-off. Fish 8 to 12 feet, and use a waxie.

Grouse hunting is very good north of town (Rice Lake). Bucks are running
around as they near the end of pre-rut. A couple of real nice ones have
been taken, and that will pick up steadily. I, personally (Frank Zumpf),
have been limiting out on geese, hunting on area lakes, (where permitted),
rather than fields.

A personal note from Frank Zumpf: “Our in-town Rice Lake is a great venue
right now for anglers ­ particularly below the dam (Red Cedar River). I
urge all of our visitors to practice catch and release for any fish,
whatever species it may be. Keep something for the frying pan, and allow
this great fishery to remain the resource for all of us that we want to see
continue in the future. Thank you.” (This report for the Rice Lake Tourism
Commission based on Creative Brilliance interview with Frank Zumpf of
Rainbow Home Center in Rice Lake).
_________

Contact info for Rice Lake area:
*Rice Lake Tourism & Retail Development Commission: 800-523-6318; e-mail:
[email protected]; web: www.ricelaketourism.com
* J.C. Bear Paw Company: 715-236-7300; e-mail: [email protected]
* Frank Zumpf, Rainbow Home Center: 715-234-8116.
_____
_____

***Wausau/Central Wisconsin area (including the communities of Kronenwetter,
Mosinee, Rib Mountain, Rothschild, Schofield, Wausau, and Weston) — as of
Oct. 29, 2006:

(Head): Big buck “that will easily make the Pope & Young record book” — and
“big girls (muskies) have come out to play”, in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin
area.

Muskie fishing has been great on Wausau/Central Wisconsin area waters. The
big girls have decided to come out and play. Popular baits right now are
Suicks and Bulldawgs. But for the best action at this time of year, you
can’t beat a live sucker. Work areas adjacent to deep water. Drop-offs, from
8 to 30 feet are working best right now, and work the edges by casting or
cutting across them in a zig-zag manner in order to present the live bait at
different depths. A number of big northerns are also being picked up this
way, incidental to going for the muskies.

The walleye fishing has been outstanding! It is not an exaggeration to say
that anglers are boating (and releasing!) hundreds of fish on every outing
in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area. Lots of legal, slot-sized walleyes,
15 to 20 inches, and a few above the 20 inch mark are being taken. Work the
backwater sloughs in two to fix feet of water, with little or no current.
Best presentation have been jig and minnow combinations, but bigger fish are
also hitting on crankbaits, like Rapalas, Storm Thundersticks, and the like.
Please remember that with fishing like this it is absolutely IMPERATIVE to
only keep what you need and release everything else immediately.

Post Category: Hunting, Fishing, Lodging, Fishing Reports

Add comment October 29th, 2006 at 09:18pmmicrolinx

Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River

***Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River and
southern end of Lake of The Woods (Baudette, Minnesota) — as of Oct. 29,
2006:

(Head): Anglers still open-water fishing and catching great numbers of
walleye, as ice starts to form on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River;
strong grouse, mallard, redhead and bluebill hunting going on, out of
Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, Minnesota.

Trees have shed their leaves as the overnight temperatures dip into the
teens. Ice skims have shown up on inlets and bays, and docks are dusted
with frost in the early morning sunshine. While fall fishing on the Rainy
River remains strong, water temperatures of 33 degrees mean avid anglers are
wondering, “how long until ice fishing begins?” The predictions indicate an
ice start of December 9, 2006.

Those anglers who have already put their boats away for the season are
missing out on some of the best fishing of the year ­ going on right now!
The emerald shiner run continues on the Rainy River, with boats trolling the
border waters from 4 Mile Bay to Wabanica. While there have been a few
reports of a spotty bite, most anglers who are fishing the Rainy River are
limiting out and pulling in plenty of fish in the 22-26 inch range, with a
few coming in over 28 inches. Depths of 15 to 23 feet have been giving up
fish, with jigs of purple, blue and green, tipped mostly with shiners, and
some chubs, showing the best success rate.

Bird hunting continues to be extremely successful in the Sportsman’s Lodge
area surrounding Lake of the woods. A recent father and son outing returned
with five beautiful ruffed grouse apiece, from an afternoon at Beltrami
island State Forest. If waterfowl are what you’re after, Lake of the Woods
is the place to be. Located on the legendary Mississippi flyway, countless
ducks and geese come through the area every fall. Our Quack Addicts hunting
guide, Eric Lindquist, helped one hunter get his limit of mallards, redheads
and bluebills on 4 Mile Bay.

Residents of our Oak island Lodge (40 miles out on Lake of the Woods — like
a remote Canadian fly-in) are getting things wrapped up before winter sets
in. Once ice starts to set in, life on Oak island comes to a stand-still
until the lake is sufficiently frozen to allow travel. In the meantime,
boats have been reporting continued success near Soldiers Point and Birch
Island. Anglers are getting limits in the later morning hours in 20 to 28
feet of water with pink and gold jigs, tipped mostly with chubs, and some
shiners (just the opposite of the Rainy River area anglers).

Remember that ice fishing is legendary on Lake of the Woods, and
reservations are filling up fast, so get your reservation locked-in for this
grand and exciting winter fishing bonanza out of Sportsman’s Lodge.

Ask about “sleeping out on the lake” for ice fishing; and “three different
ways to icefish out of Sportsman’s Lodge”. Sportsman’s Lodge also offers
“Quack Addict Duck & Goose Hunts”, guided hunts in the Lake of the Woods
area. And any hunt can be combined with fishing, lodging, and meal packages
at Sportsman’s Lodges. For more information: Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s
Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd. NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or
218-634-1342, Ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com
__________

***Upcoming events and activities at Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak
Island Lodge on Lake of the Woods, Baudette, Minnesota:

- Sportsman’s Lodge’s “traveling fish fry” will be doing a walleye feed,
for all size groups in the coming months. Gregg Hennum takes his
Sportsman’s Lodge crew, and fresh walleye all over for corporate
get-togethers, special events, celebrations, promotions, meetings and “happy
times” of all sorts. Gregg can do it for you, too ­ and your guests will
love you for it. Contact Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s
Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone:
800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., Nov. 11, 2006: “Pure Indulgence” Women’s Day(s) at Sportsman’s
Lodge, Baudette, MN. Wonderful time for gals to come and see first-hand why
all the guys flock to Sportsman’s. This weekend is reserved for wine
tasting, spa by Reike’s By Design, Four-course dinner and wine pairing;
entertainment; unique vendors featuring jewelry, purses, and crafts,
relaxation, beautiful fall weather and scenic beauty all around you. This
spectacular day is designed for women of all ages, shapes and sizes to be
pampered and indulged. You deserve it! Spend the day shopping, enjoying spa
treatments and wine tasting. Those that purchase a ticket by November 1st
will be entered into a drawing for a day at the Spa from Reike’s by Design,
and a night out at Sportsman’s Dinner and Champagne Limo Package ($200
value). Ladies, get a group together or come solo. (Guys: This would make
a wonderful gift for that special woman in your life). There’s a day rate,
or ask about The Stay and Play Package that includes: Drawings and door
prizes, dinner, wine appetizers, one spa service, lodging for one,
continental breakfast and discount coupons — all for just $69.95. Contact
Dianna Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak island Lodge, 3244 Bur
Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext.
438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Calling all hunters! Special deer season traditions at Sportsman’s
Lodge:

- November is the time for gun deer hunters to get up to Sportsman’s Lodge.
The opening of the gun deer season is a great time to enjoy access to over
one million acres of state land, open for public use. Make your reservations
now, and “reserve” that trophy buck.

- Sat. Nov. 4, 2006: Deer hunter’s steak fry at Sportsman’s Lodge.

- Thurs., Nov. 9, 2006: Texas Hold ‘Em at Sportsman’s Lodge.

Bring your boat and try some Rainy River fishing. Great action during deer
season!
Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, Phone: 800-862-8602
or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com
_____

2007 Activities at Sportsman’s Lodges:

- Sat., Jan. 20, 2007: Come to Sportsman’s Lodge and be part of history in
the making at the Baudette Bay Hockey Classic. This historic (outdoor) game
will be broadcast live on Fox SportsNet to a viewing audience of 1.3 million
households and will feature a regular season high school boy’s varsity
hockey game. The Baudette Bay Hockey Classic is in commemoration of “old
time pond hockey,” in conjunction with Baudette’s Centennial Celebration.
This unique game will be played between Lake of the Woods Bears and the St.
Paul Johnson Governors. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge.
Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected];
web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat./Sun., Feb. 3-4, 2007: Winterfest at the Northwest Angle of
Minnesota, the area where Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge is located. This
annual event celebrates the secluded beauty of the Northwest Angle and
islands, with food, fun and fishing. Sportsman’s Lodge on the Rainy River
and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge (40 miles out on Lake of the Woods) are the
perfect places for you to stay and enjoy this wonderful event‹and
Sportsman’s guides will see to it that your ice fishing experience is
memorable. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Phone:
800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., Feb. 17, 2007: Progressive Dinner-Northwest Angle. Tour the pure
and amazing scenery of Minnesota’s northernmost point while indulging in
unique and tasty dishes you’ll only find at the “top of the nation.” Warm
up after this unforgettable sled ride at Sportsman’s Oak Island or extend
your ride across Lake of the wood and spend the night at Sportsman’s Lodge
on Rainy River. Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur
Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext.
438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., March 17, 2007: Annual Snowmobile Rally at Sportsman’s Oak island
Lodge (40 miles from the main Sportsman’s Lodge on Lake of the Woods. Like
a remote Canadian fly-in destination, with all the amenities). Join this
tremendous fun time with your fellow snowmobiling enthusiasts. One of the
most scenic rides you’ll ever take. Great ice fishing, Fun Run, and Radar
Run. The best in food and beverage, featuring a pig roast and bonfire. Live
entertainment. Raffle of a 2007 Polaris, with only 300 tickets sold!
(Raffle proceeds go to local snowmobile club for trail maintenance and
snowmobile promotion). See the prize snowmobile on display at the main
Sportsman’s Lodge, near Baudette. Discounted lodging rates. Sign up now
for this very special event. Contact Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623;
phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail:
[email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat. March 24, 2007: Mardi Gras at Sportsman’s Lodge. This 9th annual
event will be along the lines of classic Mardi Gras excitement and fun.
Includes authentic decorations, entertainment, games, dancing, and of
course, thousands of beads. Free limo transportation will be provided
within a 15 mile radius and hundreds of dollars in prizes will be given away
for the winners of games like “The Flasher,” “Booby Trap,” and “Hurricane.”
A great way to say goodbye to winter and hello to a new spring season!
Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW,
Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail:
[email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat./Sun., May 5-6, 2007: Sturgeon Tournament at Sportsman’s Lodge.
Join in the excitement of the first ever sturgeon tournament hosted by
Sportsman’s Lodge. Sturgeon are the largest fish found in Minnesota. The
Rainy River and Lake of the woods are one of the few waters in the state
that allow sturgeon fishing, and Sportsman’s Lodge on Rainy River is the

Post Category: Hunting

Add comment October 28th, 2006 at 09:20pmmicrolinx

Phenomenal muskie, walleye, deer, grouse, and waterfowl “hunting” in Northwoods

Fishing and Outdoor Reports for Eagle River, Wis., Rice Lake, Wis.; Wausau/Central Wis.; and Sportsman’s Lodges, Baudette, Minn. all updated every week year-round. 1. Selected headlines for this week:

* Guide’s Choice Pro Shop, 715-477-2248; [email protected]* George Langley, Eagle River Fishing Guides Association, 715-479-8804.e-mail: [email protected]_____

* J.C. Bear Paw Company: 715-236-7300; e-mail: [email protected]* Frank Zumpf, Rainbow Home Center: 715-234-8116.__________

* Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau; phone: 888-948-4748; 715-355-8788; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.visitwausau.com.* Fishing and hunting Info: Hooksetters Fishing & Hunting Guides Services (Phil Schweik, John Sparbel, Pete Hilman, Craig Lemmer, Justin Gaiche);phone: 715-693-5843; e -mail: [email protected]; web: www.hooksetters.biz. _____ _____ ***Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River and southern end of Lake of The Woods (Baudette, Minnesota) — as of Oct. 22,2006:

For more information: Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd. NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, Ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com __________ Reports compiled, written & distributed by Creative Brilliance. ©2006. Naomi K. Shapiro or Ray Smith, Creative Brilliance 608-827-6483; 800-975-5474 (media). e-mail: [email protected]

Post Category: Hunting, Fishing, Fishing Reports

Add comment October 22nd, 2006 at 09:28pmmicrolinx

Motorcycle Days Gone

It’s October 22nd and I’m afraid to say the 2006 riding days are coming to a close, even for the hard core bikers. 40 degree highs during the day along with 20-30mpg winds, light rain and sleat make for rough going. I expect a few days of late Indian Summer then the bike’s going into the back shop for it’s annual maintenance. I’ll write a a few of my favorite Northwoods Tours for planning trips in 2007.

Post Category: Motorcycle Touring

Add comment October 22nd, 2006 at 09:19pmmicrolinx

Lake of the Woods Fishing/Outdoor report, Events & News out of Sportsman’s Lodges, Baudette, Minnesota, as of Oct. 22, 2006

***Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on the Rainy River and
southern end of Lake of The Woods (Baudette, Minnesota) — as of Oct. 22,
2006:

(Head): Emerald-shiner run continues to provide great walleye action
(including a 31 inch, 13 pounder); with mallards, bluebills, buffleheads and
teals offering strong duck hunting out of Sportsman’s Lodge on the Rainy
River at the mouth of Lake of the Woods, Baudette, Minnesota.

Falling temperatures with mixed precipitation have turned the thoughts of
many outdoors enthusiasts to the wonders of winter in the Lake of the Woods
area near Baudette, MN out of Sportsman’s Lodges.

And, with water temperatures in the Rainy River coming at 37 degrees
(falling nearly 10 degrees in 5 days), early ice is on the minds of many.
While it’s not too early to start planning your hard water fishing
adventures, there’s still time to take advantage of the phenomenal fall
fishing for which the Rainy River is famous. Walleyes are coming in on many
jig colors, with a three-eighth ounce chartreuse jig providing excellent
results. When you fill your limit of walleye, take some time to explore the
multi-species fishery that is the secret of Lake of the Woods. Smallmouth
bass have been reported all season from 4 Mile Bay to the Clementson Rapids.
The crappie bite has slowed recently, but can still be found during the
early morning hours in 6 to 10 feet of water. Lake sturgeon is strictly
catch and release for the rest of the year, but there is no better way to
spend the afternoon than fighting one of North America’s largest freshwater
fish.

The emerald shiner run continues on the Rainy River, with the larger
walleyes moving in after their favorite fall prey. Much of the action in
recent days has been focused in front of Sportsman’s Lodge, with fish from 8
to 11 pounds being reported daily, along with a 31 inch, 13 pound walleye
just brought in.

Because of the seasonal drop-off in anglers, fishing pressure continues to
be light at Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge — located 40 miles out on Lake of
the Woods (like a remote Canadian fly-in destination) — where the majority
of fishing has been taking place along Soldiers Point and Sturgeon Channel,
in up to 26 feet of water, on silver and pink jigs. Area muskie anglers
have been fighting the quickly-cooling water in the Hanson and Monument Bay
areas landing their last “big batty” before the ice comes in.

While the ruffed grouse population remains strong in the wilderness areas of
Lake of the Woods, the attention of many hunters has turned to the migratory
hunt. Eric Lindquist, top guide with the “Quack Addicts” (Sportsman’s
Lodge’s waterfowl hunting service), recently found a great mixed bag of
mallards, bluebills, buffleheads and teals while hunting along the Swift
Ditch. Duck hunting continues to November 30th.

The duck population at the Northwest Angle in the Sportsman’s Oak Island
Lodge area has been increasing in recent days, with the recent cold front
bringing mallards, bluegills and buffleheads down from Canada in the bags of
Sportsman’s hunting guests.

Walleye and musky anglers are urged to make reservations now for the ongoing
fall season, the best time to experience great musky and walleye fishing, as
well as spectacular fall colors and scenery. But, remember that ice fishing
is legendary on Lake of the Woods, and reservations are filling up fast.
It’s not too early to get your reservation locked-in for this grand and
exciting winter fishing bonanza.

Ask about “sleeping out on the lake” for ice fishing; and “three different
ways to icefish out of Sportsman’s Lodge”. Sportsman’s Lodge also offers
“Quack Addict Duck & Goose Hunts”, guided hunts in the Lake of the Woods
area. And any hunt can be combined with fishing, lodging, and meal packages
at Sportsman’s Lodges.

For more information: Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd. NW,
Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, Ext. 438; e-mail:
[email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com
__________


***Upcoming events and activities at Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak
Island Lodge on Lake of the Woods, Baudette, Minnesota:

- Sportsman’s Lodge’s “traveling fish fry” will be doing a walleye feed,
the week of Oct. 23, 2006 for 500 at the new Ford dealership in Roseau,
Minnesota. Gregg Hennum takes his Sportsman’s Lodge crew, and fresh walleye
all over for corporate get-togethers, special events, celebrations,
promotions, meetings and “happy times” of all sorts. Gregg can do it for
you, too ­ and your guests will love you for it. Contact Gregg Hennum,
Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW,
Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail:
[email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Tues., Oct. 31, 2006: Annual Halloween Spook-tacular Party at
Sportsman’s Lodge, Baudette, MN: Wide range of Halloween activities,
specials, great fun, plenty of happy times for all “goblins and witches.”
Costume contest, with top prize of $300 cash. The entire lodge is decked
out like a haunted mansion. Bar games and drink specials. Live DJ. And of
course, there’s always the wonderful fishing on Lake of the Woods, “right
outside the door.” Contact Gregg Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s
Oak Island Lodge, 3244 Bur Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone:
800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sat., Nov. 11, 2006: “Pure Indulgence” Women’s Day(s) at Sportsman’s
Lodge, Baudette, MN. Wonderful time for gals to come and see first-hand why
all the guys flock to Sportsman’s. This weekend is reserved for wine
tasting, spa by Reike’s By Design, Four-course dinner and wine pairing;
entertainment; unique vendors featuring jewelry, purses, and crafts,
relaxation, beautiful fall weather and scenic beauty all around you. This
spectacular day is designed for women of all ages, shapes and sizes to be
pampered and indulged. You deserve it! Spend the day shopping, enjoying spa
treatments and wine tasting. Those that purchase a ticket by November 1st
will be entered into a drawing for a day at the Spa from Reike’s by Design,
and a night out at Sportsman’s Dinner and Champagne Limo Package ($200
value). Ladies, get a group together or come solo. (Guys: This would make
a wonderful gift for that special woman in your life). There’s a day rate,
or ask about The Stay and Play Package that includes: Drawings and door
prizes, dinner, wine appetizers, one spa service, lodging for one,
continental breakfast and discount coupons — all for just $69.95. Contact
Dianna Hennum, Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak island Lodge, 3244 Bur
Oak Rd., NW, Baudette, MN 56623; phone: 800-862-8602, or 218-634-1342, ext.
438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Calling all hunters! Special deer season traditions at Sportsman’s
Lodge:

- November is the time for gun deer hunters to get up to Sportsman’s Lodge.
The opening of the gun deer season is a great time to enjoy access to over
one million acres of state land, open for public use. Make your reservations
now, and “reserve” that trophy buck.

- Sat. Nov. 4, 2006: Deer hunter’s steak fry at Sportsman’s Lodge.

- Thurs., Nov. 9, 2006: Texas Hold ‘Em at Sportsman’s Lodge.

Bring your boat and try some Rainy River fishing. Great action during deer
season!
Sportsman’s Lodge and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge, Phone: 800-862-8602
or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web:
www.sportsmanslodges.com
_____

- Sportsman’s Lodges Offer Ice Fishing Three Different Ways:

- Sportsman’s Lodge’s Sun-up-to-sun-down ice fishing: We’ll take you and
your crew by Bombardier out on the big open areas of Lake of the Woods and
hook you up with some of the best walleye/sauger fishing you’ve ever seen.
We provide you with a hot lunch, cooked right out on the ice, then we’ll
bring you back to the lodge for a feast in our dining room and live
entertainment in our Sandbar. The next day you’ll be treated to a hearty
breakfast and get up and do it all over again. Weekends are booking up fast.
Call us 24/7 for more details on great winter ice fishing. Sportsman’s Lodge
and Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342,
ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com

- Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge ice fishing: Have you spent a couple of
days on an island — in the middle of winter? It’s quite an experience, and
one that produces some incredible fish. The walleyes are abundant at Oak
Island, the food is hearty, and other people are scarce. The accommodations
are first class all the way. Oak Island is a great place to enjoy some
fantastic fishing, get away from the crowds, cozy up in our log condos and
take a snowmobile trail ride. You can reach Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge
at: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext. 438; e-mail: [email protected];
web: www.sportsmanslodges.com.

- Sportsman’s Sleepers Ice Fishing: Now here’s an experience: CAMPING ON
THE WATER an ice fishing at the same time! No one does sleeper fishing
better than Sportsman’s Lodge. Our sleeper houses are new, well equipped,
and known for producing a great walleye bite. Sportsman’s Lodge and
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge. Phone: 800-862-8602 or 218-634-1342, ext.
438; e-mail: [email protected]; web: www.sportsmanslodges.com
_____

2007 Activities at Sportsman’s Lodges:

- Sat., Jan. 20, 2007: Come to Sportsman’s Lodge and be part of history in
the making at the Baudette Bay Hockey Classic. This historic (outdoor) game
will be broadcast live on Fox SportsNet to a viewing audience of 1.3 million
households and will feature a regular season high school boy’s varsity

Post Category: Fishing Reports

October 22nd, 2006 at 08:50pmmicrolinx

Eagle River, Wisconsin, To Continue “Historic Boathouses & Buildings” Self-Guided and Guided Tours on Chain of 28-Lakes

Boathouses of Historic/Architectural Interest, Plus One Featured in a Movie, One Used As a Nunnery

In a tour anchoring Eagle River’s historical boathouses, the heritage of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, and the Eagle River Chain of 28 Lakes, Eagle River will this fall again launch its “Boathouses of Vilas County…Eagle River”
promotion, including mapped, self-guided waterway tours designed to take visitors past dozens of magnificent turn-of-the-century boathouses brimming with history and unique architecture.

Sites of interest along the waterway include the boathouse featured in the movie, Omen II; a boathouse that served as a chapel for Our Sisters of Mercy, Sunset Point; boathouses that still harbor antique boats and artifacts; and boathouses significant in Eagle River’s tourism and industrial development.

The original Boathouse Promotion was funded, in part, by a JEM (Joint Effort Marketing) Grant from the State’s Department of Tourism. Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson said: “We’re pleased to join efforts with the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce to support ‘The Boathouses of Vilas County… Eagle River’ as a unique fall activity and opportunity for travelers to experience the history and beauty of Eagle River’s Chain of Lakes.”

A fold-out map featuring locations and descriptions of the dozens of historical boathouses; coupons with discounts from area lodging facilities, restaurants and services, including watercraft rental businesses; and Eagle River Vacation Planning Books, were available from:

Eagle River Bureau of Information,
116 S. Railroad St., Dept. CB
Eagle River, WI 54521;
1-800-359-6315, ext. CB; 715-479-8575, ext. CB.

e-mail: [email protected]
website address: http://www.eagle-river.com

Post Category: Events

Add comment October 22nd, 2006 at 08:38pmmicrolinx

Eagle River, Wisconsin’s Annual Ice Palace

The Ice Palace of Eagle River has been a tradition for more than fifty years!
(Including a few years when it was not constructed because the ice wasn’t ready in time)!

The palace is constructed by the Eagle River area Fire Department and many other volunteers. The people involved put in over 700 man hours to make this structure possible.

With a new design every year, its size varies. It is constructed with over 2,750 nine inch blocks of ice that are cut out of Silver Lake when the weather permits, and is lit at night by dozens of colored flood lights.

The blocks weigh approximately 50 pounds each, and are loaded on pickup trucks at the lake and hauled to the downtown location.

The structure is put together every year between Christmas and New Year’s in (downtown) Eagle River’s Riverview Park. Located along a main street, and a snowmobile trail, everyone enjoys stopping to have their picture taken in front of Eagle River’s magnificent ice edifice.

The Ice Palace stands for several weeks — its lifespan is dependent on the weather — so when it warms, the structure is taken down.

This beautiful palace is proof of the wonderful volunteers in the Eagle River community that enjoy enhancing the beauty of their city!

For more information: Eagle River Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center; 1-800-359-6315; 715-479-8575; 715-479-6400. e-mail: [email protected]; website: http://www.eagle-river.com

Post Category: Events

Add comment October 22nd, 2006 at 08:35pmmicrolinx