Dockside - 2023 - Spring

A MAGAZINE FOR LAKE AND RIVER LIVING A MAGAZINE FOR LAKE AND RIVER LIVING

B&B Sports in Hutchinson is a full service marine boat and camper dealership

Ready to cast your line?

2023 Fishing Outlook for McLeod and Meeker counties

If you love fishing, there’s only one thing more enjoyable than catching a big fish — watching a kid catch a fi sh

PUBLISHED BY Hutchinson Leader

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Litchfield Independent Review

P.O. Box 307

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Dockside is NewsMedia Group publication. It is published once a year by the Hutchinson Leader and Litchfield Independent Review newspapers. It is distributed free to lake and river property owners around Litchfield and Hutchinson. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher.

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On the cover: Jeremy Crosby, owner of B&B Sports, relaxes in a Montego Bay pontoon, something customers can do when stopping by the Hutchinson showroom.

SHOP LOCAL FOR ALL YOUR SUMMER BOATING AND CAMPING NEEDS

BY MARY-ANNE OLMSTED-KOHLS For Crow River Media

Folks who live in the area don’t have to travel far to find a full service and stocked marine boat dealership. B&B Sports along State Highway 15 north of Hutchinson has a good selection of speed boats and pontoons in stock. Just stop and take a look.

B&B Sports opened in 1993 as a snowmobile dealership. Jeremy Crosby, the current owner, grew up nearby and

had spent his high school years hanging out at the shop. He would help out by sweeping floors and putting parts on products. He eventually moved on to work elsewhere, while the business also moved on dropping out of snowmobiles and changing to a marine and camper dealership. In 2011, Crosby joined the staff at B&B Sports and when the original owner wanted to retire, Crosby took over the business in 2018.

“I like a challenge,” he said. “I believe if you work hard, you get somewhere. If you don’t, you don’t get anywhere. I like being my own boss.”

When Crosby joined the staff, B&B Sports added four additional storage sheds, the facility for an indoor showroom and new trailer lines. When Crosby became owner, he concentrated on efficiency.

“It was hard to find people in

the marine line of expertise,” he said. “I tried to figure out ways to work with the people I already had,” he explained. They added simple things like garage door openers and a hydraulic trailer, which required only one person to manage the situation verses a few.

“I realized we didn’t have to be bigger — I figured out ways to be better,” he continued. “You’re only as good as the people around you. We’re a team.”

B&B Sports carries the Crestliner boat and Montego Bay pontoon lines. They have Dock-rite aluminum docks and lifts. They handle the K-Z Sportsman and Connect campers. They also carry a full line of parts for many makes and models of boats, campers and RVs. They have a specialized service department that can work on boats, outboard motors and campers. Customers

can feel assured that what they purchase at B&B can also be supplied and serviced afterward.

WHAT’S NEW?

Crestliner Boats has a new AP-X hull, which is an innovative recessed pad design that features dual tracking edges to actively channel water to the prop for instant lift and enhanced driving responsiveness. It has been added to a few lines this year, but eventually will be included on all Crestliner models.

All Crestliners have welded hulls, which creates strength and durability in a craft. This allows the company to make aggressive hull designs because of that feature. U.S. Navy ships use welded hulls.

Crestliners also use one piece gunnels — the outermost

B&B Sports in Hutchinson is a full service marine boat and camper dealership

PHOTO BY MARY-ANNE OLMSTED-KOHLS

Thinking about a new boat or upgrading your pontoon? B&B Sports offers a showroom full of options.

If you want to pretend to feel the water move under your

SHOP LOCAL

➤ continued from 5

B&B Sports has a number of models of speed boats, fishing and hunting boats in its showroom, so potential buyers can actually look at models and talk with a salesperson.

While Montego Bay Pontoons has nothing new this year, the company has refined what it already offers.

There are deluxe cruise models for those who want to putt around the lake or river with a number of people. There are also the deluxe

cruise and fishing models that include live wells and fishing seats in the back for those who want both the party option and the fishing one. Then there is the fishing-only

head

More Information

B&B Sports, 20271 State Highway 15 N., Hutchinson, is locally owned by Jeremy Crosby and a familyfriendly business. It has knowledgeable staff who will work with customers. For more information, stop in. Summer hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, or call 320-234-7669.

model, which has four-corner seats with room to maneuver inside the boat plus the live well.

B&B Sports has these mod-

B&B Sports carries:

 Crestliner boats

look at what’s new in Crestliner boats. top edge of the hull. It provides strength and a clean look.

 Montego Bay Pontoons

 Mercury Outboard Motors

 Dock Rite aluminum docks

 K-Z Sportsman & Connect Campers

 Shorlande’r trailers

 Caravan trailers

 Eagle America trailers

 Ice Castle Fish Houses

els in the showroom, so buyers can stand, sit and walk around the different options, while working with a salesperson who can answer their

PHOTO BY MARY-ANNE OLMSTED-KOHLS

feet,

to the B&B Sports’ showroom in Hutchinson for a

“I want customers to share their dynamic — grandkids? wishing? cruising? — so I can aim you in the right direction. I want to help you get the most for your money.”

Jeremy Crosby, owner of B&B Sports

B& B Sports carries the K-Z Sportsman and Connect campers. Check them out in person because there are several on their lot.

questions without having to chat online or send an email.

Mercury Outboard Motors, another popular line at the business, builds engines up to 600 horsepower. What is new this year is an electric model. The Aviator 7.5 E outboard motor has intelligent, all-electric propulsion. It delivers clean, quiet power that is simple to use. It is available in tiller and remote steer models. It is recommended for small fishing, duck and hunting boats.

For anglers, B&B Sports carries Garmen Force and Minn Kota electronic trolling motors, as well as Garmen and Hummingbird fish finders, depth finders and chart plotters.

New with campers — new models, new bunk house designs, rear-living designs, and rear and front kitchen designs. The kitchen’s newest options are a seamless kitchen counter top and sink design and larger refrigerators. The main concept with campers

Boating safety tips

Heading out for a day of waterskiing or fishing is fun for all ages. Keep it safe by following these tips:

 Wear your life jacket: Make sure everyone on the watercraft is wearing a lifejacket. Children age less than 10 are required to wear one.

 Stay sober. Alcohol is the No. 1 factor in boating fatalities. Driving while impaired could mean an operator’s license is revoked, suspended or canceled due to a DWI violation and will mean they can’t operate any vehicle — including a motorboat.

 Let people know your plans. Tell a friend where you’re going and when you will be back.

 Be weather aware. Check the weather report before heading out.

 Be boat smart. Take the Department of Natural

is providing room to keep the family together.

“I want customers to share

Resources safety course. Know your boat.

 Do you need to install a carbon monoxide detector? The new carbon monoxide law requires certain motorboats to install carbon monoxide detectors and warning stickers.

 Check your navigation lights. Navigation lights must be on from sunset to sunrise.

 Keep it clean. Make sure you clean off all visible aquatic plants, mud and debris off your boat, trailer and other water-related equipment before leaving a water access or shoreland property.

their dynamic — grandkids? wishing? cruising? — so I can aim you in the right direc-

 Drain water-related equipment. This includes boat, ballist tank, portable bait container, motor and drain bilge, live well and bait well by removing drain plug before leaving water access. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transporting watercraft.

 Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.

 Be respectful of others in the water. Slow down around other boats and shoreline to minimize your wake.

For more safety tips, visit www. dnr.state.mn.us.

tion,” Crosby said. “I want to help you get the most for your money.”

PHOTO BY MARY-ANNE OLMSTED-KOHLS

RE ADY TO C A S T READY CAST

2023 Fishing O utloo k f or McLeo d a 2023 Fishing

JOHANNES PLENIO/ UNSPLASH.COM

Outlook for McLeod

BY TANNER STEVENS Hutchinson DNR Fisheries Management Area

By all accounts the 2022 fishing season was a very good one. With good reports from many area lakes, it’ll be a tough one to top. For 2023 the biggest question will be how the drought and extensive

snow affect the lakes. It is likely that some smaller ponds will have some winterkill, but most larger lakes should be fine. The opener will again be later with fishing starting on May 13. Right now, it’s unknown what kind of spring and ice out we’ll have as it’s been a mild winter, so far except for the snow. Fishing prospects in 2023 should be good. Collinwood has the potential to be the top lake in the area based on a nice year class coming of age and great fishing last year. Otherwise, walleye fishing should be steady at several lakes. Bass fishing should be as good as always, but anglers should be advised that bass fishing has seen a rise in popularity during the past few years and subsequently many popular lakes can be very busy most weekends. This is a great opportunity to try a new lake, fish during

One of the joys of fishing is the feeling of being at one with the water.

YO UR LINE? YOUR

and Mee ker counties Meeker counties

the week, or fish for different species. The Minnesota River in the southern part of the Hutchinson DNR fisheries management area is always great for getting away from others and catching something unique.

Walleye: Last year Belle and Collinwood were the top lakes in the area for walleye. Both had good bites all year. This good fishing should continue with new crops of fish coming up. Last year was also excellent on both lakes for young of year production, so the future is bright. Marion last year was its typical self where there’s a ton of fish, but there’s lots to eat. The bite can be tough at times. Similar to Collinwood last year, the DNR will be tagging walleye in Lake Marion as part of a new study looking at genetics and angler harvest. If you catch a tagged walleye in Marion, call, or email the Hutchinson DNR office and report the catch. Big Swan Lake is another great walleye resource in the area. It’s been a hot lake the last

few years, and that should continue for a while. One lake that bounced back recently was Washington. Net catches have been down for a while, but they’ve rebounded, and people should be able to find some fish to catch. Fishing next door at Stella and Manuella should also be good. A final strong walleye candidate is Lake Minnie-Belle. Minnie-Belle is unique for the area and reminiscent of the northern woods with its clear waters and abundance of rooted aquatic plants. It can have some good walleye fishing, but anglers may need to mix up their strategies as Minnie-Belle is clearer than many other area lakes.

Bass: While Washington and Stella get most of the top press for area bass fishing, there are many other lakes in the area that are just as good. For numbers of bass, Minnie-Belle, Francis and Manuella can provide some high number days. For those

looking for a wall hanger, Jennie and Greenleaf both have the potential of 6-pound-plus fish. For a combination of both size and number Erie, Spring and Long by Dassel can all be good. To get away from the crowds head to Dunn’s, Richardson and Stahls are all good. Smallmouth bass are currently only in Stella, Manuella, Washington and Big Swan. All four lakes are great bets to hook up with a bronzeback. The majority of lakes in

Fishing Outlook to 10 ➤

FISHING OUTLOOK

➤ continued from 9

the area offer great bass fishing. Anglers should have their pick of both numbers and size with the variety of lakes.

Sunfish: Two of the top sunfish lakes in the area would be the same ones with special regulations enacted in 2022. Minnie-Belle and Ripley both have 5 fish bag limits in order to increase the number of quality fish anglers catch. Naturally both these lakes are a good starting place for looking for quality fish. The top sunfish lake in the area however may be Francis by Kingston. There

is a combination of both good size and numbers. Otherwise, Jennie and Washington are both great lakes for anglers to take a shot at getting a true trophy 10-inch bluegill. Historically Jennie has produced the most 10-inch bluegill during surveys going back to 1993. Washington is also a great place to look for big bluegill; many large bluegill were seen during spring nettings in 2017 and 2019. Because of their direct connection, Stella is also a good option for big bluegills. Clear by Watkins is also another top sunfish lake in the area. Stahls is the best local option for numbers of small sunfish to keep the kids busy.

In addition, several lakes in the area have good sunfish populations. Anglers are reminded that selective harvest is a great way to get a meal and preserve great panfishing by releasing large sunfish to spawn and in particular males that are important for nest guarding and passing down parental male genetics. Releasing the biggest sunfish and keeping 7-inch and 8-inch fish can preserve large sunfish opportunities for years to come.

Crappie: The area can offer some good crappie fishing for people looking for something for the frying pan. Belle and Swan Lake are traditional spots for many local anglers.

Clear by Watkins also has been good for several years now. For anglers looking for true giants, Minnie-Belle has the largest crappies in the area. Those anglers chasing big crappies on Minnie-Belle should be warned, they can be difficult to find. Washington and Stella are two lakes that can offer a little in between with both size and numbers. As always, Dunn’s and Richardson lakes are historically good crappie lakes and should continue to offer good crappie fishing into the future. Anglers may also encounter white crappie at either Dunn’s or Richardson. Finally, Clear Lake by New Ulm and Hanska

DEBORAH ROSE

2023 Minnesota Walleye Stamp by Melissa Mickelson of Minneapolis.

are great options in the southern part of the Hutchinson DNR management area and may have some of the best crappie fishing for both size and numbers

Northern Pike: The top northern pike fishing opportunity in the area for large-sized fish has to be Minnie-Belle. Minnie-Belle has had a protective slot limit of 24 inch to 36 inch for more than 20 years now and as a result the size structure in Minnie-Belle is tremendous for a large fish opportunity. There is potential for fish more than 40 inches at Minnie-Belle. Stella is another lake that anglers have the potential of a 40-inch fish. Anglers may not catch large numbers of fish, but the fish they do will likely be a quality size. Jennie and Collinwood also have some very nice fish, but also enough to keep you busy. For numbers of pike regardless of size, Francis and Round by Litchfield are both safe bets.

Other species: Other options in the area include Little Mud Lake by Watkins for rainbow trout. Rainbows are stocked every spring and fall. Betty, Marion, and Swan Lake are all places anglers can target channel catfish. In addition, the Minnesota River is a great place for both channel catfish and flathead catfish.

Otter Reservoir in Hutchinson is a great option for people to catch almost anything, especially with an abundance of shore fishing opportunities.

Fort Ridgley, Spring (Hindeman), Ramsey, and Seven Mile creeks are all opportunities to catch stream trout in the area. All four streams are stocked in the spring with both rainbow and brown trout, except for Seven Mile, which is only stocked with brown trout.

For more information, email Tanner Stevens, Hutchinson DNR Fisheries Management Area, at tanner.stevens@state. mn.us, or call 320-753-0343.

DNR manages several investments in McLeod County, including fishing piers and lake access points. One such location is this water access point on Todd Lake.

The

FILE PHOTOS

Anglers try their luck at Lake Francis in Meeker County. Looking for more information about this lake? Visit The Lake Francis Area Recreation & Conservation Club at www. lakefrancismn.org.

Share the joys of fishing

ensure everyone enjoys the experience:

 Plan to have fun and remember to bring a camera to document your adventures.

and there’s a lot more room and opportunities for great fishing spots.

BY MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Take a Kid Fishing Weekend Friday, June 9, through Sunday, June 11, is an opportunity to introduce children to the lifelong joys of fishing.

During this weekend, Minnesota residents age 16 or older can fish without a license if they take children age 15 or younger fishing with them.

Minnesotans age 15 or younger don’t need fishing licenses any time of the year,

though they must observe all fishing seasons and other regulations. Take a Kid Fishing Weekend is a way for adults and kids to fish together without the cost of buying a license. Minnesota residents also may generally fish in state parks without a fishing license if the body of water does not require a trout stamp.

TIPS ON FISHING WITH KIDS

During Take a Kid Fishing weekend, these tips will help

 Remember that catching a small fish is still catching a fish! Try for bluegill, perch or bullhead, (Use live bait to increase your chances of catching a fish.)

 Remember the basics: sunscreen, insect repellent and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget to bring snacks and water!

Need more family fishing ideas or resources? Try MinnAqua.

PLACES TO TAKE A KID FISHING

Shore fishing is a great way to enjoy a day at the lake or river. It’s easier and cheaper

A good, safe spot to start fishing is on a nearby fishing pier. You can find fishing piers on lakes and in many parks throughout Minnesota.

If you’re going to fish from shore, you’ll likely have to explore a bit to find the fish. Fish tend to stay in one spot so you have to move and cast along the shoreline to find them.

Spring is the best season to catch fish due to the fish being hungry after the long winter, being more active due to warmer waters and laying their eggs near shore. As soon as the ice has melted off the lakes, sunfish and crappies are great species to seek.

Enjoy the outdoors during Take a Kid Fishing weekend June 9-11.

Summer shore fishing is a little more difficult due to thick near-shore vegetation and fish moving to deeper, cooler waters. Try fishing in the early morning or evening as well as river fishing since rivers tend to have cooler waters and less vegetation.

Fall is another great time to fish due to cooling water temperatures, vegetation die offs and fish aggressively feeding to prepare for winter.

For more fishing tips, visit dnr.state.mn.us/gofishing/gofish.html.

FILE PHOTO

BY JEREMY JONES jones@hutchinsonleader.com

The McLeod County Board has approved $100,000 of its aquatic invasive species funds for carp clean out on Lake Marion.

The project of the Lake Marion Lake Improvement Association is meant to improve water quality, clarity and fishing prospects. The association will match county funds with $10,000 of its own.

“This is an ongoing effort,” said Marc Telecky, environmental services director.

The county previously approved $50,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to help with carp removal on the lake. The effort is ongoing, with 11,000 pounds of carp having been removed this past November. At the time, it was the second of three planned runs.

“There are stakeholders involved in this process to do more than just carp clean out,” Telecky said. “We’re looking at possibly doing a culvert cover on the north end of the lake to help reduce some of the fish movement, which gets the carp out of the spawning habitat areas they can reproduce in at an excessive rate. Working with our soil and water office they’ve also identified some projects down the road. Once our 10-year plan is done for One Watershed One Plan, hopefully we can access some of the funds.”

The project came to the board through the American Rescue Plan Act committee following recent discussions with the Department of Natural Resources, Lake Marion Lake Association, Brownton Rod and Gun Club, Collins Township and environmental services personnel. Long range plans

on Lake Marion call for the removal of invasive carp. Board Chairman Paul Wright said using a portion of the county’s $2.7 million ARPA funds to help will “dovetail into supporting our parks system.”

“It’s not a hard decision for me at all,” said board member Doug Krueger. “Right now, we’re focused on Lake Marion. I’m sure there are going to be people asking, you know, ‘We should do this for this lake, and that for that lake.’ We’re going to have to prioritize them because if you split the money up too much, you wouldn’t get anything done on any lake. So, I just want to make that clear, that we’re going to do the best we can.”

Removal of carp from the lake is not a new project. The Lake Marion Improvement Association oversaw the removal of 11,000 pounds of carp this

past November as part of ongoing work. At the time, it was the second of three planned runs. It was funded with help from the county’s state aquatic invasive species dollars.

McLeod County has a regional park on Lake Marion.

County Board member Daryl Luthens asked Telecky if the carp would ever be fully removed.

“Can you ever get rid of them? No,” Telecky said. “Can you help reduce the numbers and the excess quantities in the lake? That is our effort.”

The funding was approved unanimously, with Board Chair Paul Wright abstaining. he chose to do so because his farm uses as fertilizer carp which cannot otherwise be sold.

McLeod County receives AIS funding from the state with a formula based upon public accesses.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Nets were used to pull up more carp than could be easily counted from Lake Marion this past November.

The Governor’s fishing opener and pickled fish

billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually.

anglers experiences worth coming for!”

The Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener is May 12-13 this year.

Mankato will host the 75th Minnesota fishing opener. While this is the fifth time since 1948 that the fishing opener will be in Southern Minnesota, it’s the first time Mankato will host. It’s especially worth noting, this is the 75th anniversary of

this annual event.

This Minnesota tradition was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and in recent years, it has served as an iconic kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Prior to the pandemic, travel and tourism generated $16.6

“The Mankato area is home to some of the best fishing in southern Minnesota. I’m so thrilled that we will shine a light on that fact during the 2023 Governor’s Fishing Opener,” said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “Not only are the nearby lakes well-known for walleye and northern pike fishing, the Minnesota River is home to more than 80 fish species, including sauger, white bass, and trophy catfish. Whether from shore or boat, the fishing will give newcomers and longtime

So the question pops up, what to do with the fish you catch ... hmmm ... how about pickling it? This recipe is a favorite and it is usually made with northern or bass, but you can use any fish.

ROGER’S PICKLED FISH

Ingredients:

6-8 pounds of fish

Salt brine:

8 cups water

1 3/4 cups salt

Pickling agent:

White vinegar

Instructions:

Fillet and skin fish at desired amount. Soak for 48

If you’re wondering what to do with all those fish you catch during the opener, consider pickling them

Kotelnicki to 21 ➤

CORNER

Do you practice safe sun?

Say YES to Sun Protection Say NO to Skin Cancer

BY THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY www.aad.org

It’s almost that time of year when we head to the lake to boat, water ski, fish or just sit on the shore and enjoy the outdoors.

While that’s all good to do, what about sunscreen? In a recent survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults, the American Academy of Dermatology found that while respondents gave themselves high ratings for sun protection and most reported that sun protection is more important to them now than it was five years ago, there’s still a lot they don’t know about how to protect themselves from the sun and the risks of sun exposure, including skin cancer — the most common cancer in the U.S.

According to the survey, 62% of respondents gave themselves an overall grade of excellent or good for sun protection in 2021, yet 63% reported getting a tan, an increase of nine percentage points from 54% in 2020. One-third of respondents (33%) reported getting a sunburn, an increase of eight percentage points from 25% in 2020.

“If you are getting a tan, you are definitely not doing a good job of protecting yourself from the sun,” said Dr. Mark Kaufmann, board-certified dermatologist and president of the AAD. “There is no such

thing as a safe tan. Every time you tan or burn, you are also damaging the DNA in your skin. The more you damage your DNA, the greater your risk of getting skin cancer.”

Despite respondents giving themselves high marks for sun protection, the survey also revealed that the public still has a lot to learn and do to protect themselves from the sun and reduce their risk of skin cancer. The survey found:

 67% incorrectly believe that SPF 30 sunscreen offers twice as much protection as SPF 15 sunscreen.

 65% say they often forget to reapply sunscreen.

 43% are unaware that shade protects a person from UV rays.

Understanding what SPF measures and the difference between SPF numbers is an important step in sun protection. A sunscreen’s SPF number indicates how much UVB light (the burning rays) a sunscreen can filter out. While a sunscreen with an SPF 15 filters out 93% of the sun’s UVB rays, a sunscreen with an SPF 30 filters out 97% of the sun’s UVB rays.

“If you use sunscreen to protect yourself, it’s essential that you use it correctly or it will not protect you from sunburn, skin aging and skin cancer,” Kaufmann said. “That means applying enough sunscreen to cover all skin not covered by

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S.

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and nearly 20 Americans die from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, every day.

Since exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer, protect your skin by:

Seeking shade

Wearing sun-protective clothing

Applying sunscreen to all skin not covered by clothing

There are two types of sunscreens:

Physical Sunscreen

This sunscreen works like a shield; it sits on the surface of your skin, deflecting the sun’s rays.

Look for the active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide

Opt for this sunscreen if you have sensitive skin

Chemical Sunscreen

This sunscreen works as a sponge absorbing the sun’s rays.

Look for one or more of the following a ctive ingredients: oxybenzone , avobenzone, octisalate octocrylene homosalate and octinoxate

This formulation tends to be easier to rub into the skin without leaving a white residue.

If you have concerns about certain sunscreen ingredients, use the information above to choose an alternative that works for you. As long as it’s broad-spectrum, water-resistant and has an SPF 30 or higher, it can effectively protect you from the sun. Make sure you reapply it every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

more about skin cancer prevention and detection, talk to a board-certified dermatologist or visit SpotSkinCancer.org

To

clothing, which is typically 1 ounce — or enough to fill a shot glass, and reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.”

To protect yourself from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer, the AAD recommends that everyone:

 Seek shade. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If your shad-

ow appears to be shorter than you are, seek shade.

 Wear sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection, when possible. For more effective protection, choose clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) number on the label.

The American Academy of Dermatology survey reveals most Americans say sun protection is more important now than five years ago, yet many misunderstand how to protect themselves

 Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing. Broad-spectrum sunscreen provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

“It’s great that 82% of respondents say protecting their skin from the sun is more important to them now than it was five years ago,” Kaufmann said. “However, it’s important that people use sun protection now so they can prevent premature skin aging and reduce their risk of skin cancer before they start seeing the damaging effects of the sun on their skin.”

Current estimates indicate that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. This year, there will be an estimated 99,780 new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, and an estimated 7,650 people will die from this skin cancer.

“As we head into summer, it’s important that the public practices safe sun to reduce their risk of skin cancer,” said Kaufmann. “If you have any questions about how to protect

yourself from the sun or notice new or suspicious spots on your skin or any spots that are changing, itching or bleeding, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist.”

To learn more about sun protection and skin cancer prevention, visit PracticeSafeSun. org. To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org/findaderm.

Design Your Backyard Boat or RV storage facility for efficiency, functionality and enjoyment

Boating and RV use rank among the most popular forms of recreation in the U.S. Having attractive, well-designed storage facilities for your boat or RV is important in protecting and enhancing the enjoyment of these assets.

Brad Mrozinski, Morton Buildings product line manager, says upfront planning is essential so that storage facilities for boats, RVs and other recreational vehicles, such as motorcycles and ATVs, will meet owners’ current as well as future lifestyle needs.

He offers the following recom mendations:

 Plan for growth: According to the RV Industry Association, roughly 70% of RV purchases are made by existing RV’ers. Avoid building a storage facility that is too small. Take into consideration not only current storage needs, but also possible aspirations five or 10 years into the future when you may want a larger RV model or bigger boat, or to add other vehicles.

 Consider other building uses: Besides boat or RV storage, think about other possible uses for the building so those can be incorporated into the design. Other popular options include

offices, kitchenettes, lounges, bathrooms and space for hobbies.

 Aesthetics are important: Boat, RV and other recreational storage buildings are typically located near the main residence. Homeowners want an attractive facility that will add aesthetic appeal and value to their property — not a large, unattractive box.

 Ensure convenient access: An important part of the design process is determining the best positioning for the building on the property. Proper orientation of doors is necessary to provide convenient access. Window placement is also important so you can see what’s going on outside without having to leave the building.

“The storage facility should be designed to fit the property and be convenient for owners to easily use and enjoy,” he says.

Other recommendations include:

 Design the building layout for functionality and ease of use. For instance, for an RV storage building, placing the tall overhead door to one side reduces water hose and charging cord tripping hazards when the RV is serviced inside the building.

QUICK TIPS TO HOOK A KID ON FISHING

If you love fishing, there’s only one thing more enjoyable than catching a big fish — watching a kid catch a fish

As t he weat her wa r ms, t he desi re to go s the weather warms, the desire to go f ishi ng is u ndeniable A nd i f you love fishing is undeniable. And if you love f ishi ng, t here’s on ly one t hi ng more en- fishing, there’s only one thing more enjoyable t ha n catchi ng a big f ish than catching a fish watchi ng a kid catch a f ish.

— watching a kid catch a fish.

T h i s f i s h i n g s e a - This fishing season, t he fol ks son, the folks

at Rapa la f ishi ng lu res encou rage adu lts to take

at Rapala fishing lures encourage adults to take a kid f ishi ng W hy? Because kids represent t he a kid fishing. Why? Because kids represent the fut u re of f ishi ng Accordi ng to t he A meric a n future of fishing. According to the American Spor t f ishi ng A ssociation, kids who a re i nt ro - Sportfishing Association, kids who are introduced to fishing at an early age by a trusted adult duced to at an age a trusted adult a re more li kely to f ish as a n adu lt. are more likely to fish as an adult.

Quick tips to 20 ➤

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 Plan sufficient storage for occasionally used equipment as well as support materials to be kept in stock and easy to access when needed.

 Ensure adequate ventilation if you are working on boat or RV engines, as well as for cars, trucks, snowmobiles or four-wheel-drive vehicles. Include a floor drain if you will be washing any equipment or pulling in vehicles covered with snow.

To learn more, reach out to a local contractor or visit mortonbuildings.com.

Source: North American Precis Syndicate

QUICK TIPS

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Here a re 15 quick tips from Here are 15 tips from t he fol ks at R apa la on how you the folks at Rapala on how you ca n i nt roduce a kid to f ishi ng can introduce a kid to fishing t his yea r: this year:

 Get them on good bites. Get them on bites. The number one thing you can The number one you can do to hook a kid on fishing, says to a on says le g endary angler Al Lindner, legendary Al is to get lots of bites for your is to get lots of bites for your child “Taking kids fishing be- child. kids between the age of 8 and 12 years tween the age of 8 and 12 years old is a critical time,” he said. old is a critical he said. “Try to get them on good bites. to them on bites. Their attention span is shor t. Their attention span is short. You will quickly know if fish- You will know if fishing will be a part of their life will be a part of their life in the future They are either in the future. are either going to like it or not But they to like it or not. But have to get bites. I can’t say how have to bites. I can’t say how important that is. You gotta get that is. You gotta get ’em on a bite.” on a

 Start them on blue gills Start them on bluegills and sunnies. The easiest bites tend to be panfish blue gills, tend to be — bluegills, sunfish and bream. As your kids sunfish and bream. As your kids watch you catch bass, walleye watch you catch bass, a n d o t h e r g a m e f i s h , t h e y ’ l l and other gamefish, they’ll w a n t n ew ch a l l e n g es Kee p a want new challenges. Keep a panfish pliers handy to remove to remove hooks from small panfish hooks from small panfish.

 A s m a l l f i s h c a n b e a small fish can be a m o n s t e r f i s h . monster fish. To a c h i l d , a To a child, a

s m a l l s u n ny c a n b e a t ro p hy small sunny can be a trophy. D o n’ t d ow n p l ay a s m a l l f i s h Don’t downplay a small fish. Every fish caught is a huge ac- fish is a accomplishment.

 Keep it simple. it Start your Start your kid fishing with a single hook with a hook. They’re much easier to remove much easier to remove f ro m f i s h I t c o u l d b e a h o o k from fish. It could be a hook and a bobber or a single hook and a bobber or a hook soft bait.

 Bring the snacks. the snacks. Whatever your kids like for snacks, ever your kids like for such as chips, cookies or fruit such as cookies or fruit c h e w i e s, b r i n g t h e m ! Yo u ’ r e chewies, bring them! You’re s u r e t o wo rk u p a n a p p e t i t e sure to work up an appetite c a t c h i n g a l l t h o s e f i s h . A n d catching all those fish. And don’t forget the wipes for sticky, don’t the for slimy little hands. little hands.

 K e e p i t s h o r t . Keep it short. W i t h With younger kids, especially, avoid younger avoid o ve r d o i n g i t S t a r t o u t w i t h overdoing it. Start out with short trips a couple hours at short — a hours at most, and if the fish just don’t and if the fish don’t seem to be cooperating, cut it seem to be cut it short and go have an ice cream short and go have an ice cream cone Gradually increase your cone. increase your time out on the water and try- time out on the water and trying dif ferent types of fishing different of a p p r o a c h e s , s u c h a s f i s h i n g approaches, such as fishing with soft baits or trolling with with soft baits or with crankbaits.

 C r e a t e t r a d i t i o n s . Create traditions. O n e One of the best things about fishing of the best about with a kid is creating little tra- with a kid is little traditions to which they can look ditions to which can look fo r w a rd t o i n t h e f u t u re. Fo r forward to in the future. For

example, stopping for a donut for a donut on the way to the lake, or giv- on the way to the or ing fish pins whenever your kid fish whenever your kid catches a new species. catches a new

 B r i n g a f r i e n d . Bring a friend. If your If your child has a good friend, invite child has a invite them along on the fun, too That them on the too. That k i d m ay t u r n i n t o a l i f e t i m e kid may turn into a lifetime fishing buddy for your kid. shing for your kid.

 Take pictures. Take Don’t limit yo u r s e l f t o j u s t f i s h p h o t o s ! yourself to just fish photos! Take photos of the entire expe- Take of the entire experience stopping for donuts rience — for donuts on the way to the water, eating on the way to the snacks, collecting rocks or sea- rocks or seashells, feeding the ducks. Tur n the ducks. Turn your photos into a photo book or your into a book or create a slide show with music create a that the kids can watch later can later.

W h e n f i s h a r e c a u g h t m a k e When fish are caught make sure the most important people sure the most in your kid’s life see their fish in your kid’s life see their fish photos.

 W a t c h t h e w e a t h e r. Watch the weather. Sometimes the weather doesn’t a l w a y s c o o p e r a t e Yo u m a y always cooperate. You may think the fishing is best on an is best on an ove rc a s t , w i n dy d ay, bu t t h at overcast, windy day, but that may not be the case for kids. may not be the case for kids. Instead, watch the weather and watch the weather and choose a war m, clear day and choose a warm, clear and get out early when the fish are get out when the fish are most likely to bite most to bite.

 B r i n g a l i f e j a c k e t . Bring a life jacket. I t It o n ly t a ke s a s e c o n d a n d yo u only takes a second and you m ay f i n d a k i d i n t h e w a t e r. may find a kid in the water.

W h e n o n a b o at , k i d s s h o u l d

When on a boat, kids should always wear a life jacket that wear a life that fits properly (in many states, ts properly many states, it’s the law). Use caution when it’s the Use caution when fishing from docks, piers and shing from and shorelines, too too.

 Av o i d s u n b u r n . Avoid sunburn. M a k e Make s u r e y o u r k i d i s w e a r i n g a sure your kid is wearing a c o m f o r t a b l e f i s h i n g c a p a n d comfortable fishing cap and together, apply your sunscreen your sunscreen to ears, noses and other exposed to ears, noses and other skin skin.

 Handle fish gently. fish Fish are slimy, prickly and wig gly are and wiggly. With young kids, adults should With young adults should handle fish at first and let kids gently “pet” them before they’re them before released. As they become more released. As become more experienced, show kids how to show kids how to carefully land, hold and release hold and release their catches catches.

 F i s h w i t h t o p w a t e r Fish with topwater. Watching a fish explode on the a fish on the surface for a lure gives young surface for a lure young anglers an exciting visual that an visual that w i l l ke e p t h e m c o m i n g b a c k will keep them coming back for more more.

 Keep a few. a few. If your kids If your kids w a n t t o t r y e at i n g f i s h , ke e p want to try eating fish, keep a few fish and cook them up. a few fish and cook them up. Don’t make an entire meal out an out of it though, as eating fish is of it as fish an acquired taste Use a trusty an taste. Use a trusty b at t e r re c i p e a n d s e r ve w i t h batter recipe and serve with French fries fries.

Sou rce : Bra ndpoi nt Source: Brandpoint

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Your boat, RV or other fun vehicle is an investment and deserves a smart, safe, good looking storage space.

KOTELNICKI

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hours in salt brine, enough to float an egg. Cover and keep in cool place. After 48 hours, rinse and drain well. Soak in white vinegar 24 hours, enough to cover the fish. Drain and discard vinegar. Cut fish into small pieces like herring.

Mix together and bring to a boil:

2 1/2 cups white sugar

1 1/2 cups brown sugar

1/8 cups pickling spices

Cool and add 1 3/4 cups Silver Satin Wine

Roger, the creator of this recipe, made it in a glass one-gallon jar. Layer fish alternately with sliced onions, plenty of them. Cover with cooled mixture. Cover and refrigerate. Should be ready to eat in 10 to 14 days.

OFFICE OF GOVERNOR TIM WALZ

The 2022 Governor’s Fishing Opener took place at the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe area. In this photo, Gov. Tim Walz did his office proud by bringing in a fish worth keeping.

FO R A N N UA L A R R I VA L O F FOR ANNUAL ARRIVAL OF B I G M O UTH B U F FA LO F I S H BIGMOUTH BUFFALO FISH

It was a sight to behold, and one that hasn’t been seen in McLeod County since the infant years of settlement. On a warm spring morning, with mist rising

from the slow rolling waters of the Crow River, schools

of bigmouth buffalo fish, numbering in the thousands, would make their way up the river and blacken the water like a thunder cloud. They had dominion over the stream, and literally stacked themselves atop one another from bank to bank, so thickly that their fins crested the water’s surface. They came to spawn, to rejuvenate their finned community with young. Awaiting them were early McLeod County

fishermen, eager to bag as many fish as possible.

The buffalo fish is one that is most often passed over today. It’s a scaly fish, the largest of the sucker family, and one that can grow up to four feet in length and is capable of living longer than a human. It’s often gray, or even yellow/ gold in color and is frequently mistaken for the common carp. On its back and head are lightly colored black and orange markings that intensify

Large traps and nets were used to catch enough fish to feed the village of Hutchinson

Brian HAINES

They are bottom dwellers, residing in lakes, rivers and streams, and survive well in areas with low oxygen and warm temperatures. The fish is overlooked as a rough fish by most Minnesota fisherman today, yet in other parts of the United States, as well as the world, the buffalo fish is highly sought after for table fare.

The settlers who made homes near the Crow River greatly anticipated the arrival of the buffalo fish. In a landscape that could be unforgiving, and where sustenance was the chief concern of most, the fish meant food, pure and simple. The fish would arrive in large numbers during the spring when temperatures began to significantly warm, usually around late May

Once spotted, fishermen began drawing plans to catch as many as possible with minimal effort.

In Hutchinson, the catching of the buffalo fish was a communitywide affair. Men, and likely women, were given specific tasks that made the taking of fish smooth and efficient. No attempt to hook or snare an individual fish was made; rather, large traps and nets were made to obtain enough fish to feed an entire community. The fishermen would literally herd the fish into an area where they could be taken from the water in great quantities. The fish were allowed to pass under the bridge that crossed the river, then a netted fence with a boxed opening was staked across the stream behind them. Next, the fishermen entered the stream and herded

the fish toward the box where they could be pulled from the water.

With a net full of fish, the hard work began. The nets were emptied with pitchforks and the fish were thrown on shore by the hundreds. Men, and presumably women, waited on the banks where they dressed the fish and packed them into crocks with salt to preserve them. This entire operation would go on until the supply of salt was exhausted and the town was supplied with enough fish to last until the next spring.

Sadly, the number of buffalo fish has declined greatly from the days of the settlers. Being mistaken for carp, buffalo fish are often netted, speared, or taken by bow and left along river banks to rot. Dams and carp traps inhibit the fish’s ability to

move and find suitable spawning areas. Since 1940, there has been a steep decline in numbers and harvest limits remain unlimited. The fish can still be found, however, as many bow fisherman still pull buffalo fish from rivers and streams. I would dare any McLeod County fisherman to harken back to their ancestors and try eating a buffalo fish next time they catch one and tell me how it tastes!

— Brian Haines is executive director of the McLeod County Historical Society and Museum, 380 School Road N.W., Hutchinson. The museum is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 1-4 p.m. Saturday and by appointment. Admission is free. For more information, call the museum at 320-587-2109.

A LU S164/W I K I P E D I A ALUS164/WIKIPEDIA

Accord i ng to Wi k iped ia , t he big mout h bu f fa lo fi sh

According to Wikipedia, the bigmouth buffalo fi sh is t he l a rgest Nor t h A mer ic a n species i n t he Catostom id ae is the largest North American in the Catostomidae or “sucker ” fa m i ly, a nd is one of t he longest-l ived a nd or “sucker” family, and is one of the longest-lived and l atest-m at u r i ng freshwater fi shes, c apable of l iv i ng beyond latest-maturing freshwater fi capable of living 110 yea r s a nd reproduces i n frequent ly. 110 years and infrequently.