Tournament Fishing Times Spring 2011

TABLE OF CONENTS SPRING 2011

MINNESOTA FISHING LICENSES Licenses are valid from March 1st, 2011 through April 30th, 2012. All residents and non-residents age 16 and older must have a fishing license.

A trout stamp is required for all anglers fishing in a designated trout stream, designated trout lake, or Lake Superior. Children under 16 years old and adults 65 and older are not required to have a trout stamp. Licenses can be purchased from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) and from sporting goods stores. Licenses can also be purchased with a credit card by phone at 888-665-4236, or online at mndnr.gov.

LICENSES AND FEES Prices include agent fee and surcharge. The pricing information applies for 2011. For more details on fishing regulations, go to mndnr.gov.

Resident Individual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $17 Combination (husband & wife) . . $25

Individual 24-hour. . . . . . . . . . $8.50 Trout Stamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10

Non-Resident Individual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $39.50 Individual 24-hour. . . . . . . . . . $8.50 Individual 72-hour . . . . . . . . . . . . $24 Individual 7-day . . . . . . . . . . . $28.50 Youth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $17 Combination (husband & wife) 14-day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40.50 Family (husband, wife, children under 16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $52.50 Trout Stamp (not required with 24-hour license) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10

BOAT LICENSES All boats, canoes and kayaks (motorized or non-motorized, more than nine feet long) used in Minnesota must be licensed or registered in Minnesota or in the owner’s home state. Watercraft can be registered in person at any deputy registrar of motor vehicles. Boat registrations are valid for three calendar years. Contact the Minnesota DNR at 800-285-2000 for more information on registering your boat.

BOAT ACCESS Minnesota has over 1,900 public water accesses. Most are open 24 hours and do not require a launch fee. Locate a boat access on a county water access map or call 888-MINNDNR for more details.

After another great season of fishing, we are excited to bring you our second issue of Tournament Fishing Times.

As a young publication we are always looking for new and exciting angling ideas and that’s just what we did with this issue. You will not only find detailed tournament coverage of the season, but also a family-oriented angle to the articles and information. We worked with the Youth Bass Federation for this issue as well, due to our developing interest in youth fishing as a wholesome recreational sport for kids. We believe in inspiring a passion for angling at a young age in order to keep the tradition of tournament fishing alive. As a loving father himself, Chad has contributed some exciting articles about family fishing and the bond that comes from it. Aside from our family-oriented approach, we have continued to include fishing tips, prime locations, results from past events, information on upcoming events and how to get involved in tournament fishing. In this issue you will read about the largest walleye tournament in Minnesota: the 3rd Annual Leech Lake Walleye Tournament.

After the success of last year’s tournament, which included huge cash payouts and 155 registered teams, we anticipate an even bigger turnout this year.

In fact, Midwest Outdoors TV will be filming the competition. As usual we’ve covered all species of tournaments under one cover and had a great time doing it. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this issue and helped to make it a success!

Chad Keller & Matt Lahren Good Luck This Season,

MINNESOTA 2011 FISHING SEASONS Trout in Streams April 1-15 (catch & release) April 16-September 30 (September 14 in SE Minnesota)

FEATURE TOURNAMENT: Leech Lake Walleye Tournament TOURNAMENTS = FAMILY FUN

Lake Trout January 1-March 31 May 14-September 30

KING OF THE LAKE SALMON TRAIL

Take-a-Mom Fishing Weekend May 7 & May 8 (panfish only)

YOUTH SHOWCASE: Youth Bass

Walleye, Sauger, Northern Pike May 14-February 26, 2012

FISHING TIPS: “Crunch Time” Musky

Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass May 28-September 11 (begins May 14 in NE Minnesota) September 12-February 26, 2012 (catch & release) Muskellunge June 4-December 1

TOURNAMENT RECAP: Big Bass Bonanza UPCOMING MINNESOTA TOURNAMENTS

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Sunfish, Crappie, Perch, Catfish, Bullheads Continuous Note: Fishing regulations along Minnesota’s border waters may differ from inland waters. Find out more at www.mndnr.gov.

PHOTO CREDITS: Cover image: Bill Linder Studio. Other images: Peter Anderly, Jason Durham, Chad Keller, Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce, Lake of the Woods Tourism, Leech Lake Tourism Bureau, Leech Lake Walleye Tournament, Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber, Willmar Lakes Area.

Publisher: This publication is produced by Itineraries, Inc. in partnership with Tournament Fishing Times.

Itineraries, Inc. 56 South 33rd Avenue, #234 - St. Cloud, Minnesota 56301 877-832-7267 / Fax 763-201-7945 / www.tournamentfishingtimes.com / info@tournamentfishingtimes.com

TOURNAMENT FISHING TIMES

FEATURE TOURNAMENT

Welcome to the 3rd Annual

Leech Lake Walleye Tournament!

B Y J O H N KO H L H A S E

Located on the hottest walleye lake in Minnesota, this is a non-profit family event with proceeds going to area organizations.

The response to the Leech Lake Walleye Tournament has been overwhelming - making it the largest walleye tournament in Minnesota. The positive feedback and response to this tournament has resulted in a competitive field of 155 teams for 2011, with an increase in the payouts to the anglers. Tournament proceeds will benefit the following local non-profit organizations: the Northstar Sportsmens Club, Wolf Pride and Let’s Go Fishing.

June 4-5, 2011

Be a part of this exciting tournament action! Register now for nearly $40,000 in cash and prizes.

Our Mission: The mission of the Leech Lake Area Walleye Tournament is to build a strong community by providing financial support for area “non-profit” organizations and promote tourism through fishing and family recreation.

Vision Statement: To create a family-oriented, lake-friendly fishing tournament that will develop into the largest locally sponsored non-profit walleye tournament in the country.

A new day begins for walleye tournaments on Leech Lake...

Walleye tournaments have been a tradition on Leech Lake for over 20 years. The entire Leech Lake community has strongly supported tournaments over the years with dozens of volunteers working to make them a success.

The community is proud to say that the tournament tradition continues with the new Leech Lake Walleye Tournament.

Leech Lake Fishing Task Force Through countless hours of effort by the Leech Lake Fishing Task Force, in conjunction with

the Leech Lake Band and the Minnesota DNR, they are realizing their goal of bringing back a strong and sustainable walleye fishery on the lake. It began in 2005 with a cormorant control plan and an aggressive stocking program. It is anticipated that by 2010, over 100 million walleye fry will have been introduced into Leech Lake. The result of this effort has been a return to quality walleye fishing that is as good as it has ever been, with Leech Lake once again being one of the hottest walleye lakes in Minnesota. The Leech Lake Walleye Tournament will showcase this walleye fishery recovery.

“Thank you to all of the competitors and sponsors who made our 2010 tournament a huge success. We look forward to your participation again in 2011” Jim Tuller - LLWT Communications Director LEECH LAKE,

Minnesota’s Original • Leech Lake has 112,000 acres, a very diverse lake with very irregular shoreline and protected shallow and deep bays – most of it is undeveloped.

“Up North”

walleye. Cormorant control and stocking have lead to a boom in walleye and perch fishing the past few years.

• Leech Lake is one of the hottest walleye lakes in Minnesota right now.

• Many walleye tournaments, including the Leech Lake Walleye Tournament and the FLW Tour, are held on Leech Lake.

• Fantastic multi-species fishery for muskies, bass, pike, perch, panfish, as well as

• Leech Lake has been a top muskie destination for many years, but it is also

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Contact: Tournament Communications Director: Jim Tuller, 218-675-6176, swanbait@uslink.net

The 2011 LLWT Non-Profit Beneficiaries: NorthStar Sportsmens Club A community based, non-profit, supervised shooting sports facility. Providing access for youth, training classes and competitive league events. www.nssclub.org Let’s Go Fishing With Seniors Created to enrich the lives of seniors through free fishing and boating excursions that strengthen communities and build relationships. www.lgfws.com WOLF PRIDE A fund to assist WHA students financially so they are able to participate in school sponsored activities.

To register or for more details contact Jim Tuller 218-675-6176 or visit

www.leechlakewalleyetournament.com.

a top bass fishery in Minnesota with several tournaments each year.

• Not just a fishing destination, the Walker area has other options for families: restaurants, shopping, biking & hiking trails, and water activities.

• Nearly 30 family-friendly resorts and hotels on Leech Lake.

Visit www.leechlake.org for more information.

Tournaments =

n y l F u i m Fa

eing a dedicated tournament angler as well as a devoted father and husband is an undertaking I embrace every spring. Yes, the passion for family always supersedes, but that does not mean the passion for fishing should have to suffer.

Some of my fondest tournament memories are the ones I experienced with my sons Blake and Beau and my lovely wife Brianna.

With my family there to support me, it’s a bit easier to accept those times in which the ‘big one’ got away. No matter what, the fish I do catch impresses them, and their support at the weigh-in inspires me to stay focused on my angling skills.

If you are a tournament angler, then you have a busy schedule throughout the year.

Depending upon how many tournaments you choose to compete in, as well as the prestige of each event, will vary the amount of time spent on the water. When I plan my schedule for the upcoming season, I always make sure there are plenty of weekends devoted to quality family time, and many of the communities in which tournaments are held are actually very family-friendly.

Every year many tournaments are held on Green Lake in Spicer, Minnesota—home of Melvin’s on the Lake. Melvin’s prime location on the beach, as well as their cozy

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restaurant and bar, make it the perfect location for tournaments. For example here are just 3 of the additional tournaments on Green Lake in the month of June alone; The Little Crow Angler’s Walleye Fishing Tournament, Fishers of Men - Minnesota Team Division bass fishing tournament on June 18 , and the West Central Green Mill Classic fishing tournament – for Large and Smallmouth Bass on June 25, 2011. This entire area offers plenty to keep everyone entertained, including amusement parks, movie theaters, shopping centers and much more. Location is the key to a successful family-oriented tournament weekend.

The type of tournament and the style of event can add to the family’s enjoyment as well as that of the angler. Last year’s Snag Proof Open bass tournament on Leech Lake is a perfect example. Three hours prior to the weigh-in, kids ages 3 to 14 participated in a special casting kids tournament. A frog fishing clinic was held in the marina where children played in the thick aquatic vegetation, casting and watching their frogs swim. The top casters in the children’s event were announced and posted next to the adult winners. Each kid took home a prize and got a sneak peek into the weigh-in bags, you can bet jaws dropped at the sight of the

giant bass being brought to the scales. This type of interaction between kids and adults is very helpful in keeping youth interested in fishing. There are many events across the Midwest that incorporate families along with the angler’s desire to compete.

Tournament fishing with the family is not only possible, but it can make the experience ultimately more successful. Effective prefishing can be done early in the morning, before the family is up for the day. Arrive back at the hotel as the kids are waking up and take them out on the boat for some quality time before the tournament. Let’s face it—if we compete in a tournament with our loved ones at the weigh-in, we want to do well, so take them along as you get to know the water. One-day events are great for families who want to focus on activities outside of fishing. When Saturday’s tournament is over, you can have the whole weekend together to explore the community.

Tournaments are fun for everyone. I enjoy sharing my passion for fishing with my family and others. Tournaments are a huge part of growing the sport and passing it on to the youth of tomorrow. There are many events set for the 2011 season in the Midwest for all different skill sets. Find one that fits you and your family and go fish!

BY CHAD KELLER

A Hub for Thrilling Fishing Action!

The Park Rapids area is a hub for exciting tournament fishing action. With over 100 lakes nearby, anglers have numerous opportunities to compete against others in weekly clubs targeting walleye or bass. Four multi-species events are spread throughout the months of May through September.

Two of the multi-species events— held only a week apart—take place both east and west of Park Rapids.

The Walt Winskowski Memorial

Fishing Tournament invites anglers to hurl their fishing lines into Straight Lake, a 423-acre body of water with abundant aquatic plants and water clarity of 5.5 feet.

Because of Straight Lake’s lower water clarity compared to the majority of local lakes, fish of all species are less affected by high sun and calm water, making it a great destination for catching a whopper all day long (the Park Rapids Bass Club’s record is 6.25 pounds from

Straight Lake). Entry forms can be obtained for the June 4th, 2011 Walt Winskowski Memorial Fishing Tournament on Straight Lake by contacting Jerry Janz (218-573-3365).

The Gene Cirks Memorial Scholarship Tournament takes place on June 11th, 2011 on the crystal clear waters of Lake Belle Taine.

With nice cash prizes for a low entry fee of $110 per two-person team, the 50 boat maximum field tends to fill quickly. Unique prizes like the Ole

and Lena Award for the top placing male/female team and the Incredibly Mediocre Award for the team finishing in 25th place keep all anglers in the running for a cash prize, despite their fishing success.

For information on the Gene Cirks Memorial Scholarship Tournament, contact Kelley Cirks (218-652-3063).

Information on other area fishing tournaments is available from the Park Rapids Chamber of Commerce at 218-732-4111.

Park Rapids Has Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family Eight miles west of Park Rapids is Osage, Minnesota—Home of Straight Lake and the Walt Winshowski Memorial Fishing Tournament. Catch Muskie, Walleye, Northern Pike, Lake Trout and panfish in this competition for cash and prizes. Aside from fishing, there is plenty to discover in the Park Rapids area.

day one

day two

11 – 3:00 pm Bond with your family at the Character Challenge Course located just 7 miles north of Park Rapids. This recreational ropes course, designed for people ages 8 and up, is also used as an educational and team-building facility that allows guests to stare fate in the face while entertaining you, building character and creating lasting memories.

3 – 5:00 pm Check into your hotel and relax after an exciting afternoon.

5 – 7:00 pm Enjoy a casual dining experience at Zhateau Zorbaz. Their extensive menu caters to all tastes and their game room will entertain the whole family.

7 – 10:00 pm Family entertainment awaits you at the Long Lake Theater in historic downtown Hubbard.

With two intimate theaters offering comedies, dramas and musicals, there is something for everyone. This summer’s performances include “A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline” and “Nunsensations.”

7 – 9:00 am Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, and then pack up for a day at Itasca State Park.

9 – 1:00 pm Get the camera and binoculars ready for exquisite scenery along the trails of Itasca State Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the Mississippi Headwaters, swim or fish along the shores of the sparkling lakes or canoe down the river. There are endless activities for the whole family to enjoy.

1 – 4:00 pm Can’t get enough of the Park Rapids area? Make one last stop at the Park Rapids Lakes Area Northland Bison Ranch in Nevis, TO UR NA ME NT S Minnesota. View bison in their natural Feb 5, 2011-Feb 4, 2012: habitat while learning of the importance American Legion Community Fishi ng Contest of this sacred animal. Purchase bison Feb 12, 2011 - Feb 11, 2012: meat and unique gifts to take home.

Audreys Purple Drea For more information or to customize this sample itinerary, please contact the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber 800-247-0054, www.ParkRapids.com.

m Fishing Tournament June 4, 2011: Walt Winskowski Memorial Fishi ng Tournament June 10-12, 2011: Take a Kid Fishi ng June 18, 2011: Gene Cirks Memorial Scholarship Fishing Tourn ament Sept 10, 2011: Fall Classic Fishing Tournament Sept 24, 2011: Fall Slam Fishing Tournament

Summertime Excitement in Willmar The Willmar Lakes Area invites you to enjoy their family-friendly attractions this summer. Their festivals, dining, shopping and outdoor activities appeal to folks of all ages and interests—so add Willmar to your list of summer destinations!

day one 10 – 11:00 am Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss a stop at Mr. B’s Chocolatier. Inspired by some of the best chocolatiers in Europe, the shop offers 55 different handcrafted truffles and Belgian chocolates. So try some samples and take home some treats from your stay in Willmar!

11 – 1:00 pm Stop for lunch at Willmar’s original hometown pizza maker, Jake’s Pizza. It’s a favorite among the locals and has been for over 35 years!

1 – 4:00 pm Enjoy a hot summer day at the Dorothy A. Olson Aquatic Center. Their diving boards, waterslides, 6-lane recreation pool, concessions and interactive play pool will keep the family busy for hours.

4 – 6:00 pm Check into your hotel and freshen up for the evening’s events.

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Bring the Family to Detroit Lakes for Fishing and More!

Detroit Lakes is more than just a world-class fishing destination, it’s the perfect place for a family vacation!

From outdoor recreation to shopping, there is plenty for your family to see and to do.

6 – 10:00 pm Spend an action-packed evening at KRA Speedway. Scream and cheer while watching modified & stock cars race around the 3/8-mile dirt track at the Kandiyohi County Fairgrounds.

day two 8 – 10:00 am Eat breakfast at the hotel and spend a leisurely morning with the family before checking out.

10 – 12:00 pm Enjoy free admission at Kandiyohi County Historical Society & Museum. Families are welcome to explore exhibits highlighting transportation, Indian artifacts and immigration.

The museum is open 7 days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For more information or to customize this sample itinerary, please contact the Willmar Lakes Area CVB 800-845-8747, www.WillmarLakesArea.com.

Willmar Lakes Area TO UR NA ME NT S

June 2011: g Tournament Little Crow Angler’s Walleye Fishin t Summer Classic Fishing Tournamen hip Minnesota State Fishing Champions June 11, 2011: Crow River Fishing Tournament June 18, 2011: Fishers of Men Tournament MN Team Division Bass-Fishing June 25, 2011: West Central ament Green Mill Classic Fishing Tourn on Lond New : July 2011 Annual Kids Fishing Tourney Aug 21, 2011: Big Bass Bonanza Fishing Tournament ament Sept 2011: Fall Classic Fishing Tourn

day one 11 – 12:00 pm Arrive in Detroit Lakes and stretch your legs at the Lakes Area Farmers Market at City Park. Pick out the best locally grown fruits and vegetables while enjoying the warm summer sunshine.

12 – 1:00 pm Enjoy lunch at the Country Kitchen Restaurant.

Their extensive menu of comfort foods will hit the spot.

1 – 5:00 pm Stroll down Washington Avenue—Detroit Lakes’ downtown—and do some shopping.

From its downtown mall in historic buildings, to specialty shops offering clothes, housewares, toys and souvenirs, these shops have it all.

Forget to pack something? You’ll find it here!

Or if a day at the beach is more to your liking, they have a mile long sandy beach just calling your name.

5 – 6:00 pm Check into your hotel and get the family ready for dinner at the Lakeside Tavern.

6 – 8:00 pm Established in 1891, there’s a reason the Lakeside Tavern has been around for so

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Detroit Lakes Area

FAM ILY-FR IEN DLY EVE NT S June 3-4, 2011: Street Faire at the Lakes June 10-11, 2011: National Antiq ue Car Meet June 18-19, 2011: Quake the Lake Powerboat Race s July 8-17, 2011: Northwest Wate r Carnival July 27-30, 2011: Becker County Fair Sept 18-23, 2011: National K9 Dog Trials

long: the great food and great atmosphere. Enjoy a view of Detroit Lake while feasting on one (or more) of their various menu items. The tavern also offers a Light Menu and a Kids Menu.

8 – 10:00 pm Arrive back at your hotel for some relaxation, or squeeze in some pool time before bed. The AmericInn, Holiday Inn and Best Western all have indoor pools for the family to enjoy.

day two 7 – 9:00 am Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the day’s events.

9 – 12:00 pm Shop for antiques, collectibles and handmade crafts at the Shady Hollow Flea Market, open holiday weekends and Sundays through the summer. It’s a great way to spend time with the family while still enjoying the outdoors.

12 – 2:00 pm Enjoy lunch at one of Detroit Lakes’ many restaurants and reminisce about the trip. Then head for home!

For more information or to customize this sample itinerary, please contact the Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce 800-542-3992, www.VisitDetroitLakes.com.

See You At The Lakes With more than 400 sparkling blue lakes within 25 miles, Detroit Lakes offers fishing fun in all seasons. Located in northwest Minnesota, Detroit Lakes is the gateway to the lakes. Cast a line for walleye, northern, bass, crappie, sunfish, trout, bluegill, perch, rough fish and trophy-size muskie.

Didn’t bring a boat? A fishing pier and marina with boat rentals are located along the mile-long sandy city beach of Detroit Lake. Popular species caught on this lake spanning over 3,000 acres are panfish, walleye and northern. Excellent fishing has also made Detroit Lake a popular destination for muskie anglers looking for catches of 50 inches or more.

Local guides are available to take you to fishing hotspots in the Detroit Lakes area. For a current report, call the toll free fishing hotline at 800-433-1888 or go to “reports” at VisitDetroitLakes.com.

Lake of the Woods: Come and Play!

A Day in Bemidji

As the “Walleye Capital of the World,” it’s no secret that Lake of the Woods offers tons of outdoor fun. Camp, fish, hike, bike and swim, plus winter snowmobiling and ice fishing!

Just don’t waste your time indoors—you might miss something!

Whether spending a day here or a whole week, there is plenty to experience in Bemidji. Summertime offers several opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality family fun. This is just a sample of what your family could do!

Lake of the Woods & Rainy River TO UR NA ME NT S

April 29-30, 2011: Sportsman’s Lodges Annual Sturgeon Tournament May 21, 2011: ic North Star Spring Walleye Class : 2011 , 15-16 Sept July 8-9 & Minnesota Tournament Trail June 25, 2011: ic North Star Summer Walleye Class t amen Tourn ye Walle River Sept 2011: Rainy

10 – 12:00 pm Geocaching is a pastime that has more popular every year. Search for hidden outdoors using a GPS and logbook inside. It’s a new twist on

become a cache sign the treasure

hunting, and a great opportunity for family bonding. Zippel Bay and Franz Jevne state parks participate in the geocaching program and invite you to discover why it is so popular!

12 – 4:00 pm On the east side of Baudette is Timber Mill Community Park.

Eat a picnic lunch while enjoying a view of the Rainy River. The park also offers several playgrounds, two baseball fields, a half-mile track and even a skateboard park!

4 – 5:00 pm Pitch a tent in one of the area campgrounds or check into one of the many comfortable ‘up north’ resorts.

5 – 9:00 pm Enjoy dinner at camp or at an area resort and ride into town (in your car or on your bike), and snap a picture of Willie the Walleye, Baudette’s 40 foot Walleye! Plan tomorrow’s big day out on the water charter fishing for those delicious Walleyes!

For more information or to customize this sample itinerary, please contact Lake of the Woods Tourism 800-382-FISH, www.LakeOfTheWoodsMN.com.

10 – 1:00 pm Kangaroos in Northern Minnesota? It’s possible! Paul Bunyan’s Animal Land is home to almost 100 animals from all over the world, making it Minnesota’s largest wildlife park/petting zoo. Learn about local and exotic animals, eat a picnic lunch, purchase something in the gift shop and spend some quality time with your family.

1 – 6:00 pm Create lasting memories at the thrilling Lake Bemidji State Park. Spend time boating on the lake, biking the paths, hiking the trails or watching the birds—the area offers it all!

6 – 8:00 pm End your day in Bemidji with a relaxing dinner at one of the area’s several restaurants.

The Southside Restaurant on Washington Avenue specializes in home-cooked meals in a comfortable family atmosphere.

For more information or to customize this sample itinerary, please contact the Bemidji VCB 877-250-5959, www.VisitBemidji.com.

Bemidji

TO UR NA ME NT S June 11, 2011: Kraus-Anderson Walleye Classic June 18, 2011: Bemidji/Big Lake Plantagenet Muskie Tournament

Outdoor Fun in the Leech Lake Area Thousands of dollars in cash and prizes beckons anglers from all over to the Leech Lake Walleye Tournament. This year’s tournament will be held on June 4th and 5th and will be filmed

by Midwest Outdoors TV! Bring the whole family for some great activities to enjoy while visiting the Leech Lake area.

day one 12 – 3:00 pm Arrive in nearby Pine River for some horseback riding at the Pine River Riding Stables.

Whether experienced or a beginner, they have a horse for you! Enjoy the scenery along the trails as they meander through the 240-acre ranch. Hayrides are also available.

3 – 5:00 pm Walker/Leech Lake is located 30 miles north of Pine River, check into an area hotel or resort, freshen up and relax before dinner with the family.

5 – 7:00 pm The Leech Lake Area offers several family-friendly dining

Leech Lake Area

TO UR NA ME NT S June 4-5, 2011:

Leech Lake Walleye Tournament and explore their June 8 & 11 2011: FLW Walleye extensive archival files.

Tour Aug 13, 2011: Portage Bay Musk 11 – 1:00 pm ie Classic Aug 20, 2011: Snag Proof Open Enjoy a “South of the Sept 9, 2011: 44th Muskie Inc. Border” lunch at Café Frank Schneider Jr. Memorial Tourn ament Zona Rosa. Their Sept 24, 2011: Masters Bass Circu authentic Mexican fare it can be enjoyed inside or outside on their patio.

1 – 4:00 pm Golfing, boating, swimming, shooting. An archery range is also biking along the many trails and available and membership or exploring State Parks are among participation in a league is not the options for your family today. necessary to test your skills.

Another choice could be the Northstar Sportsmen’s Club.

For more information or to Youth and adults alike will enjoy customize this sample itinerary, a safe, supervised shooting please contact the Leech Lake experience from sporting clays to Tourism Bureau 800-735-3297, skeet to rifle and handgun target www.LeechLake.org.

options. Enjoy all-American cuisine at Walker’s Beachfire Bar & Grill or a delicious healthy meal at Walker Fusion.

7 – 10:00 pm Spend some quality time with the family at your hotel and get some rest before the next day’s events.

day two 7 – 9:00 am Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and prepare for the day.

9 – 11:00 am Visit the Cass County Museum & Historical Society and learn about the early settlement of the area and view original Ojibwe artifacts. Read up on accounts of unsolved murders of Cass County

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Three port stops Summer 2011‌ Tournament Fishing Times is proud to bring you the First Annual King of the Lake Salmon Trail on beautiful Lake Michigan, Summer 2011!

King of the Lake Salmon Trail begins in Two Rivers, Wisconsin (TBA).

The second port will be held in Algoma, Wisconsin (TBA), followed by the final stop in Sheboygan on August 27th. All three of these ports are known for some of the best salmon fishing on Lake Michigan.

Pre-fishing for the events will be completed at 4:00 pm the Friday before the tournament. We will be hosting an event meeting on Friday evening with food, drinks and just plain socializing. Share fishing stories with fellow anglers and relax before the competition.

Fox Hills Resort will be the tournament host location for the Algoma and Two Rivers events. Check into Fox Hills early and enjoy some of their great amenities offered all summer long, including lots of free boat parking and special room rates.

To register or for more details go to

www.tournamentfishingtimes.com.

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YOUTH SHOWCASE

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he purpose of Youth Bass is to instill the wholesome passion of bass fishing into today’s youth. We believe that by introducing organized angling at a young age we are creating a solid foundation to transition into the adult fishing ranks. Last - Peter Anderly year the federation held the Tournament of Champions event at Camp Friendship on Clearwater Lake. Several youth teams from the Minnesota region came to compete, including our champions Neil and Nate Molitor of the Granite City Club. This year we will be holding three events. There will be two events in June and a third event in August. The two-day event in August will once again be at Camp Friendship on Clearwater Lake. The ultimate goal of this tournament is to give the kids a chance to experience the fun and complexities of a large, multiple-day event while developing team-building skills and an appreciation for fishing. Adult anglers participate in the events as well, but not by competing. They volunteer their boats for the kids to use during the tournament as well as their time by mentoring and coaching these budding fishing enthusiasts. Youth Bass will also be assisting with other events around the state this year. One of our favorite youth fishing events is the Urban-Rez Bass Challenge in Lake George, Minnesota. Each team consists of one Bass Professionals volunteer teamed up with urban and reservation kids. The combination of experienced anglers with underprivileged or inexperienced youth make it a rewarding and fun day for everyone, which is what youth fishing is all about!

“I started Youth Bass to help create the greatest experience possible for the youth fisher-person in Minnesota.”

If you know of any youth that are interested in fishing an event or would like to join one of the youth clubs in Minnesota they should give Peter Anderly a call at 612-669-9253.

FISHING TIPS

“CRUNCH TIME” What would you do if you had a mere two hours to catch a musky on a vast 112,000 acres?

I

’ve just arrived at the Stony Point Landing on Leech Lake. It’s 1:00 pm. I have an evening run scheduled for 4:00 pm with a few walleye enthusiasts.

Needless to say I brought my musky pole and a few select plugs. The musky nut in me had just two hours in which to catch one.

Well, I not only caught a 49-inch solid musky, but also caught a good look at another chaser that was noticeably larger.

The 10,000-cast myth can be a factor for any musky angler, but there are proven tactics that can keep you out of the club.

Location is the biggest factor when targeting musky. Once you key in on the “sweet spot,” success can be almost certain.

My favorite musky sweet spots are found near “wolf packs.” Multiple fish areas are the key to putting more fish in the boat.

When I caught the 49-incher on Leech, I had

MUSKY not fished in over a month, but had seen multiple fish earlier in the year. It helps to know of areas like this when having only two hours to catch a fish. Single-fish spots are great and can often hold the bigger fish, but finding the school puts more in the boat. The spot on Leech was no secret—it’s a main lake point. The clue was the Volkswagon-sized boulder just off the east side of the point. Areas holding multiple fish usually contain multiple habitat benefits such as: inside turns, points, docks, rocks, thick vegetation, and deep water.

Choosing the type of bait when you’re short on time can be difficult. Just be confident and have finesse. In such a situation, the Bull Dawg style – big soft plastics work well. Minnow imitations are another favorite of mine. If stealthy tactics don’t work, I will opt for another way to make the fish bite. Topwater baits and big bladed buck tails are my preferred choice. They cause a lot of commotion and

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can be worked fast. When not familiar with structure, I will choose only fast-moving baits and cover as many key areas that stick out on a map as possible. The more casts you throw and the more areas you fish, the better the odds of catching the giant—fast!

Whether you are fishing a lake or river system, there is usually a spot in which to find multiple musky on a fishery. I have found multiple muskellunge spots on many locations across Minnesota: Leech Lake, Big Detroit Lake, Lobster Lake, St. Croix River, Lake Minnetonka, Lake Alexander, Sugar Lake, and Lake Bemidji to name a few.

There is nothing more exciting than having over 200 feet of fish within casting distance.

I hope to get on a ‘wolf pack’ this year and hope you can do the same!

Chad Keller Guide/Tournament Angler chad@tournamentfishingtimes.com

TOURNAMENT RECAP

Official Standings of the

2010 Big Bass Bonanza 1

2

3

4 1) Horseshoe Chain Richmond, Minnesota - June 6, 2010 The first Big Bass Bonanza event of the year was a huge success. The gorgeous weather made up for the difficult fishing. The 32 teams caught fish both in shallow and deep water and found no particular pattern more successful than another.

The results at the weigh-in were lower than normal, but anglers had a great time nonetheless!

1st Place: Chris Blank & Jeremy Schrantz Weight: 20.24 lbs Pattern: Finesse senko, all largemouth.

Sponsors: Gerard’s, Head of the Lakes, Eyes on Main, Scott Polipnick Masonry 2nd Place: Brandon & Bob Moore 3rd Place: Jason Schlect & Nick Shaw Big Bass: Todd Bissett & Dean Nalezny

2) Lake Ida Alexandria, Minnesota - June 20, 2010 It was a great day for fishing on Lake Ida today.

All but one of the 36 teams brought in a limit of 8 fish and several teams reported catching 100 or more fish throughout the day! The winning team not only won by a margin of 6.39 lbs, but all 8 of their fish were a healthy 3 lbs.

1st Place: Clarence & Terry Rassmussen Weight: 24.20 lbs Pattern: Fished tubes for bedding smallmouth and then fished chartreuse spinnerbaits for smallmouth on flats.

2nd Place: Tom Wilkins & John Englund 3rd Place: Rob Ronning & Randy Voyles Big Bass: Jason Schlect & Nick Shaw

3) Green Lake Spicer, Minnesota - July 11, 2010 Green Lake, primarily known for its smallmouth,

5 displayed some hefty largemouth today. The beautifully sunny day put all 32 teams in a positive and competitive mood. Teams reported catching a lot of bass, but getting over the 2 lb. mark proved difficult. The top three teams all finished with over 20 lbs of bass.

1st Place: Nick Gross & Paul Rausch Weight: 22.15 lbs Pattern: Fished dark colored tubes and drop shots around rocks for smallmouth.

Sponsors: FutureBass.com 2nd Place: Andrew & Mike Nitchals 3rd Place: Brandon & Bob Moore Big Bass: Brandon & Bob Moore

4) Lake Minnewaska Glenwood, Minnesota - August 8, 2010 The extreme heat and humidity did not keep the fish from biting today. The 39 angling teams reached impressive limits. In fact, the winning team of Nick Gross and Paul Rausch had an impressive limit of 25.52 lbs by 10 a.m.! It was a successful day for most, despite the temperatures.

1st Place: Nick Gross & Paul Rausch Weight: 25.52 lbs Pattern: Targeted largemouth on a weed flat in 14 ft-deep water with craw tubes, jig worms, and jigs.

Sponsors: FutureBass.com, Pure Fishing 2nd Place: Jim & Phil Lokken 3rd Place: Pat & Nasha Martin Big Bass: Aaron & Marc Anderson

5) Sauk Lake Sauk Centre, Minnesota - August 22, 2010 Another hot day in August breathes down the anglers’ backs as the pressure mounts today. It is the final Big Bass Bonanza event of 2010

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6 and teams scramble for some last-minute points before the Tournament of Champions in September. The fish displayed quality of quantity today, with only eight of the teams reaching the 8-fish limit, but several teams catching bass over 4 lbs and two bass over 6 lbs! Congratulations to Brandon and Bob Moore who took home the Team of the Year title!

1st Place: Chad Keller & Greg Wiechmann Weight: 24.29 lbs Pattern: Targeted docks and laydowns in shallow water and used jigs to catch their fish as the day wore on.

Sponsors: Tournament Fishing Times, Capital Granite, Lutgen Companies, Overtime Ink, Line & Lure Conditioner, and BTS 2nd Place: Chris Blank & Jeremy Schrantz 3rd Place: Rob Ronning & Randy Voyles Big Bass: Mark & Eric Mohr

6) Tournament of Champions, Lake Koronis Paynesville, Minnesota - September 12, 2010 The top ten teams of the year were greeted by a beautiful September sunrise on Lake Koronis.

The pressure was high as they competed for the championship title. All ten teams reached the 8-fish limit, but no team fished better than Nick Gross and Paul Rausch who weighed in a whopping 23.47 lb bag to finish the season.

Congratulations guys!

1st Place: Nick Gross & Paul Rausch Weight: 23.47 lbs Pattern: Topwater, chug bug, and spook baits.

Caught most of their smallmouth bag early on.

Sponsors: FutureBass.com 2nd Place: Tony Dvorak & Kristi Lamser 3rd Place: Chad Keller & Greg Wiechmann Big Bass: Tony Dvorak & Kristi Lamser

UPCOMING MINNESOTA TOURNAMENTS

JUNE

M AY

DATE

EVENT / LOCATION

CONTACT / PHONE or EMAIL

7 8 21

25 Island Invitational / Pepin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Military Bass Anglers (MBAA) / Pepin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Jeremy Rush Hiltbrunner Cystic Fibrosis Walleye Tournament / White Iron. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mike Goering / 651-388-7851 Arnold Helgerson / 763-670-6553

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Michael Rush Hiltbrunner / 218-235-8134

21 21,22 31

North Star Spring Walleye Classic / Lake of the Woods . . . . . . . . . . . .

Minnesota Tournament Trail / Mille Lacs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Denny’s Super 30 / Minnetonka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Colleen Gibson & Kevin Olm / 218-643-9457 Mike Holt / 320-679-2825 Denise Nelson / 612-201-2406

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Fishers of Men-Legacy Heartland Division / Minnewaska . . . . . . . . . . . .

Team Great Outdoors Series / Minnetonka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fishers of Men Minnesota Team Division / Clearwater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kolar Toyota ALS Walleye Tournament / Island Lake Reservoir . . . . . . . .

Lonnie Schultz Invitational Walleye Tournament / Miltona. . . . . . . . . . . .

Minnesota Fishing Challenger / Gull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Minnetonka Classic Bass Tournament / Minnetonka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MREA 10th Annual Fishing Tournament / Rush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Northerns Inc. Tournament / Pelican . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pooh Bear Open / Pepin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Reel Team Bass Tournament / Alexandria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Walt Winskowski Memorial Fishing Tournament / Straight Lake .

Michael Munson / 320-766-0184 Mark Tipler / 651-779-8216 Dave and Tammy Shade / 612-280-1559 Sandy Judge / 612-672-0484 Patrick Bettin / 218-338-5221 Jim Kalkofen / 218-825-3732 Larry Krohn / 507-357-6605 Al Czeczok / 218-252-7545 Steve Allen / sjallen@brainerd.net Mike Goering / 651-388-7851 Matt Gilbertson / 320-760-3748 Jane Larson / jane@parkrapids.com

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James Tuller / 218-675-6176 Mike Holt / 320-379-2825 Chad Keller / 320-980-0055 Rick Pelletier / 952-270-3864 Arnold Helgerson / 763-670-6553 Rick Rundquist / 218-252-0821 Jane Larson / jane@parkrapids.com Greg / 320-354-2423 Joseph Doerfler / 218-692-2122 Mike Herber / 507-289-0756 Rick Rundquist / 218-252-0821 Bob Fitzgerald / 218-759-0596 Paul Reese Hartman / 763-786-6031

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1 1 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4,5 4,5 5 5 5 8,11 10-12 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 14 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 19 19 20 22 24 24,25 25 25 25 25 25 26 28

. . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . .

Leech Lake Walleye Tournament / Leech Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Minnesota Tournament Trail / Mille Lacs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Ickler Open - Big Bass Bonanza / Horseshoe Chain of Lakes MFBA Northern Open / Pokegama, Blackwater… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Military Bass Anglers (MBAA) / East/West Rush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FLW Walleye Tour / Leech Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Take A Kid Fishing / Park Rapids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Crow River Fishing Tournament / Green Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Crosslake Ideal Lions Fishing Contest / Whitefish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Culligan Invitational Walleye Tournament / Pepin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FLW Walleye Tour / Leech Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kraus-Anderson Walleye Classic / Bemidji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Metro Muskie Tournament / Bald Eagle, Bryant, Clear, Elmo… . . . . . . .

Lake Country Sportmen’s Club 17th Annual Walleye Tournament / Otter Tail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Military Bass Anglers (MBAA) / Clearwater, Augusta, Otter… . . . . . . . . . .

Frankies Tuesday Night League / Big Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

28th Annual Confidence Learning Center Fishing Classic / Gull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bemidji/Big Lake Plantagenet Muskie Tournament / Bemidji . . .

Denny’s Super 30 / Ida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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SPECIES*

... ... ...

Gary Harrington / 218-495-2226 Arnold Helgerson / 763-670-6553 Don Knutson / 651-347-0096

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... ... ...

Jeff Olson / 218-828-2344 Rory Potter / 218-368-2688 Dennis Nelson / 612-201-2406

N M B

Dave Shack / 612-280-1559

B

Fishers of Men - Minnesota Team Division Bass-Fishing Tournament / Green Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gene Clerks Memorial Scholarship Fishing Tournament / Park Rapids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lake Osakis Lions Club Walleye Tour / Osakis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nitti's Hunters Point Walleye Shoot-out / Mille Lacs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Northerns Inc. / Cedar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Teamsters Local 120 / Mille Lacs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

United Northern Sportsmen’s 31st Annual Walleye Fishing Contest / Island Lake Reservoir. . . . . . . . . . . .

Lake Minnewaska - Big Bass Bonanza / Minnewaska . . . . . . . . . . . .

Masters Bass Circuit / Gull Lake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Denny’s Super 30 / Minnetonka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wednesday Evening Bassin’ / Minnetonka. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fall Slam Fishing Tournament / Fish Hook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2011 Camp Confidence Pro Bass Team Tournament / Gull Lake. . . . . . . . . . .

27th Annual West Battle Lake Walleye Tournament / West Battle . . . . . . . . .

Fishers of Men Legacy Granite City / Clearwater, Grass, Otter…. . . . . . . . .

Nitti’s Hunters Point Walleye Shoot-out / Mille Lacs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

North Star Summer Walleye Classic / Lake of the Woods . . . . . . . . . .

West Central Green Mill Classic Fishing Tournament / Green Lake Military Bass Anglers (MBAA) / North Center / South Center . . . . . . . . . . . .

Frankies Tuesday Night League / Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Jane Larson / jane@parkrapids.com Mike Thesing / 320-859-4781 George Nitti / 320-676-3227 Steve Allen / sjallen@brainerd.net Dace Schrunk / 612-735-5862 Joseph Roberts / 218-722-2711 Chad Keller / 320-980-0055 Daniel Beckstrom / 952-352-7035 Dennis Nelson / 612-201-2406 Dennis Nelson / 612-201-2406 Jeff Renner / 218-732-3654 Jeff Olson / 218-828-2344 Michael Adkins / 218-864-09223 Perry Whitney / 763-913-1995 Jason Bangers / 320-676-3227 Colleen Gibson & Kevin Olm / 218-634-9457 Paul Shimek / 320-796-0801 Arnold Helgerson / 763-670-6553 Don Knutson / 651-347-0096

A complete tournament schedule for Minnesota and other states, including Iowa & Wisconsin, online at: www.TournamentFishingTimes.com

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*Walleye, Bass, Northern Pike, Muskie