Dockside Minnesota magazine - Winter 2012

BACKYARD DREAMS

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Winter 2012

NORTHERN FORAGER Blogger finds food in fields, streams

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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Winter 2012 Issue No. 9

www.docksidemagazine.mn DEPARTMENTS

Launch

News, Tips, Ideas Ode to owls, winter camping, spring ahead, and more.

4 Life on the Lake

Backyard Dreams Plan your outdoor spaces now.

By Kristin Holtz

8 Travel

North by Northeast

12

Find winter along Lake Superior’s North Shore.

By Sarah Tieck

FEATURES

Dockside Conversation

Northern Forager Local author finds groceries in fields, streams.

By Laura French

16 2012 Boat Models Preview

Take the Helm A glimpse at the new, 2012 boats.

By the staff of Dockside Minnesota

18 On the Cover: Brett Laidlaw, author of Trout Caviar: Recipes from a Northern Forager, finds food ideas in natural settings. PHOTO BY Laurie Schneider.

All contents copyright © 2012, Southwest Newspapers.

Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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LAUNCH

News • Ideas • Tips

An ode to owls PUBLISHER: Jennifer Sorenson jsorenson@swpub.com EDITOR: Angelo Gentile agentile@swpub.com DESIGN: Brian Sorenson bsorenson@swpub.com CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE: Laura French Kristin Holtz Sarah Tieck SUBSCRIPTIONS: Ruby Winings 952-345-6682 circulation@swpub.com CONTACT US: 327 Marschall Road, P.O Box 8 Shakopee, MN 55379 952-445-3333 ONLINE: www.docksidemagazine.mn ADVERTISING: Jennifer Sorenson Advertising Sales Director 952-345-6477

Laura Erickson, creator and producer of the radio program “For the Birds,” brings a new collection of bird lore to life in Twelve Owls.

Published by the University of Minnesota Press, Twelve Owls takes an in-depth look at owls native to Minnesota. From the tiny Northern Saw-whet Owl to the Great Gray Owl, Erickson of Duluth shares identifying features and fascinating tidbits about these birds.

“Richly illustrated by renowned woodcut artist and painter Betsy Bowen, it brims with lively and erudite vignettes that will enhance your ability to find and appreciate our native owls, and indeed all birds, no matter your level of experience,” according to the Zumbro Valley Audubon Society.

BuoyRope: Two-in-one docking Make docking your boat a cinch this spring with a new product from the makers of LoopRope. BuoyRope is a 5-foot docking line that sets your boat fender to the proper height while mooring to a dock without traditional ropes or bungees. The two-in-one method is great for sport boats and water toys, as well as chaining boats out on the water. Remove the fender and use the adjustable rope as a tie down for boating gears, inflatables, coolers or

more. The BuoyRope retails for $22.95 and is available at buoyrope.com.

Dan Boike Multi-Media Sales Specialist dboike@swpub.com 952-345-6372 Dockside Minnesota magazine is published four times a year by Southwest Newspapers, a division of Red Wing Publishing Co. Southwest is located at 327 Marschall Road, PO Box 8, Shakopee, MN, 55379. Phone 952-445-3333.

Spring ahead Shake off winter and look forward to green at the 2012 Minnesota Home and Patio Show Feb. 16-19 at St. Paul RiverCentre. Check out hundreds of exhibits, free daily workshops and seminars on cooking, home improvement, gardening and landscaping. Local and national

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

manufacturers will offer creative solutions for home project needs. Admission to the Home and Patio Show is $9 adults and $2.50 for children 6 to 12. Get more information at homeandpatioshow.com.

Ski report Tired of sitting inside and reading? Seen that movie before? Fight winter boredom by pulling on a pair of long underwear and strapping on your skis.

The website shares the latest snow depth and groomed trail conditions from the Arrowhead to the Iowa border. A snow-depth map is updated every Thursday afternoon.

The website also includes information on how to get your Minnesota Ski Pass. All cross-country skiers (16 or older) on state park or forest ski trails must carry a pass.

REI shares a list of must-have winter gear to keep you warm and safe while winter camping: ■ Waterproof backpack to haul your extra clothes ■ Sleeping bag rated at least 10 degrees lower than the coldest temperature you expect to encounter ■ Sleeping bag liner can add 8 to 15 degrees of warmth

Must-have gear for winter camping Minnesota State Parks offer dozens of great cross country trails close to the Twin Cities. Check out trail conditions on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website at dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth.

Avoid the mosquitoes and the crowds by taking a winter camping trip. Winter camping is a great way to enjoy the peaceful pristine environment of a Minnesota winter, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared for the cold and snow.

■ Sleeping pads, at least two to insulate your body from the cold surface of snow ■ Ground cloth protects tent from water ■ Headlamp and flashlights, batteries ■ Two-way radio Learn more winter camping tips at rei.com/expertadvice.

Photos courtesy rei.com

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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LAUNCH

Philadelphia Winter Punch Ingredients 4 oranges (any variety) 1 cup sugar 1 quart dry white wine

Preparation Slice oranges crossways into 8 or 9 flat slices (about 1/3 inch thick) and lay them in a baking pan in one layer. Bake at 300 degrees just until they turn light brown.

Remove oranges and place in a stainless steel bowl. Cover with sugar and 2 cups of the wine.

Stir well, cover, and keep in a cool place for 24 hours. To serve, strain the mixture, pressing orange slices to release the juice. Add the remaining wine. Heat mixture in a pan. Simmer for 2 minutes. Pour into goblets (if desired, add a piece of orange rind retrieved from the strainer).

Serves four.

Source: Village Market in Prior Lake, villagemarket.net

A SAD time of year Long nights and short days have you down? For some, the dark days of January and February can be more than just the winter blues.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that tends to come around the same time every year, leaving some people moody and sapped for energy.

Treatments for SAD vary from light therapy to medication depending on the severity, according to the Mayo Clinic. The clinic recommends seeing a doctor if you struggle to get yourself motivated for several days and it’s affecting your sleep patterns.

For those not suffering from SAD, winter can still put us in a funk. The Mayo Clinic recommends these tips: ■ Make your environment sunnier and brighter.

Open blinds, trim tree branches that block sunlight, or add skylights to your home. Sit closer to bright windows while at home or in the office.

■ Get outside. Take a long walk, eat lunch at a nearby park, or simply sit on a bench and soak up the sun. Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help—especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning.

■ Exercise regularly. Physical exercise helps relieve stress and anxiety, both of which can increase seasonal affective disorder symptoms. Being more fit can make you feel better about yourself, too, which can lift your mood.

Source: Mayoclinic.com

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

Candlelight events Here’s a fun idea from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources that will help you and your family get out and experience winter adventure and Minnesota’s state parks in a whole new light: Candlelight Events.

Short, easy trails at the parks will be lit with lanterns or luminaries, and you can drop in any time during the events to go whatever distance is comfortable for you. Afterward, warm up with refreshments by a crackling fire.

Many parks offer ski rentals. Restrooms and vault toilets are open daily at all Minnesota state parks throughout the year. Anyone age 16 or older must carry a signed ski pass when using cross-country ski trails in state parks.

Before you go... Find out the snow conditions.

Please note: Occasionally, due to extreme weather or poor snow conditions, an event may need to be canceled or changed. Generally a candlelight event will go on even when there’s no snow - it just becomes a candlelight hike, rather than snowshoe or ski! When in doubt, call the park. For more details, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/candlelight_events.html.

Here are some events coming up soon: Feb. 4 Zippel Bay State Park Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe Glendalough State Park Candlelight Ski Buffalo River State Park Candlelight Ski / Snowshoe / Hike Itasca State Park Program Update: Itasca’s Lantern Lit Walk Hayes Lake State Park Candlelight Snowshoe

Mille Lacs Kathio State Park Candlelight Ski

Feb. 18 Gooseberry Falls State Park Gooseberry Falls Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe, and Hike

St. Croix State Park Candlelight Ski Rice Lake State Park Candlelight Ski / Snowshoe / Hike

Luminaries against the snow create inviting beacons against winter’s starkness.

Father Hennepin State Park Candlelight Ski

Afton State Park Candlelight Hike & Snowshoe

Feb. 25 Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Candlelight Snowshoe and Hike

Root River State Trail Candlelight Ski

Old Mill State Park Candlelight Ski

Feb. 10 Jay Cooke State Park Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe

Maplewood State Park Candlelight Ski

Feb. 11 Lake Maria State Park Candlelight Snowshoe/Volksmarch Gateway State Trail Candlelight Hike Gateway State Trail Candlelight Hike Feb. 14 Wild River State Park Valentine’s Candlelight Snowshoe & Bonfire

celebrities from home design and garden shows. Tickets are $13 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are free.

Home, garden show coming soon Mark your calendar for the Minneapolis Home & Garden Show coming up Feb. 29 through March 4 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. The show will include lots of television

Savor it Plan to attend Savor Minnesota, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at the Canterbury Park clubhouse

in Shakopee. Enjoy Minnesotagrown wines from more than 20 state wineries, plus Minnesota beers and foods. Admission is $35 in advance, $40 at the door. Ticket price includes souvenir tasting glass, bag and Savor Minnesota booklet with discounts and free offers from participating wineries. Visit SavorMinnesota.com.

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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LIFE ON THE LAKE

Backyard Dreams Winter is best time to design, plan your outdoor spaces In the drabness of winter, it’s hard to imagine your barren backyard as an oasis getaway.

But now is the perfect time to start dreaming of a picturesque escape.

With a down economy, backyards are the perfect staycation, says Michael Miller, president of Edina-based Walden Backyards. “It’s great to be able to gather with neighbors, family, and friends in the backyard.”

By Kristin Holtz 8

Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

Indoor and outdoor When it comes to outdoor living, people want to enjoy indoor amenities and luxuries outdoors, says Jim Sweeney, founder and senior designer of Mom’s Landscaping & Design in

A Great Day on the Lake starts with…

Gas lanterns, shown here, are making a comeback in backyard landscaping trends. On the facing page, this home brings the indoors outside in a big way.

Photos courtesy Mom’s Landscaping

Shakopee. From comfortable furniture and décor to access to food and drinks, people see their backyard as an extension of their living space, he says. Thus, homeowners lengthen the summer season by adding wind protection and warmth from a fire pit or fireplace, Sweeney says.

Fire rings are “destination spots” for families to gather, says Jason Black, a landscape designer with Gray Gardens in Excelsior. Most of Black’s clients want natural stone rings and patio to set their chairs around.

Earlier this month, Miller launched the Walden Ring, an interchangeable fire pit, planter, fountain, smoker, and more.

“One day you could have a cooler in there and use it as a table, and then switch to a fire pit in the evening,” he says.

More light, less water, no bugs Outdoor lighting has gained popularity in recent years, Sweeney says. Gaslights, popular in the 1950s, have resurfaced as hand-made gas lanterns. “It gives you the illumination and the natural flame” by electronic ignition, Sweeney says. “The beauty and interest of these things are just so cool.”

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A dozen years ago, water features were the hot backyard trend, but fountains and ponds have dropped off recently, Black of Gray Gardens says. “I think people want things that are lower maintenance.”

Another buzz in landscaping is anti-mosquito systems.

Landscapers strategically place spray heads through an outdoor living space to spray natural chemicals or non-toxic pesticides, Sweeney explains. They create a blanket of protection from pesky insects.

“They allow people to be out on some of those great summer nights without going crazy.”

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Simple, do-it-yourself projects like patio pavers can add great value, says Miller. Non-outlandish landscaping has a great return on investment and can help your house stand out in the housing market.

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Dream now While leafy trees and warm nights are still months away, landscapers say winter is the best time to plan your outdoor projects.

“Start to dream about your favorite backyard moments and what you really want. It doesn’t have to be expensive to get those,” Miller of Walden Backyards says.

Use February to peruse magazines, set a budget, and draw, Miller advises. When March comes, you can start selecting materials.

Indoor amenities in outdoor settings are a popular trend in backyard landscaping, said Jim Sweeney, founder and senior designer at Mom’s Landscaping & Design in Shakopee.

Photos courtesy Mom’s Landscaping

It’s also important to book a landscaper early. When the season starts–typically the second week of May–Gray Gardens, for example, is already booked six to eight weeks out, Black says.

“There’s no better time than right now to be talking about design and having the right amount of time and energy to make your project personal,” Sweeney says.

Kristin Holtz is a writer and editor for Southwest Newspapers, which publishes Dockside Minnesota.

The Walden Ring, invented by Michael Miller of Edina, can be converted into a fire pit, cooler, fountain, planter, and barbecue.

Photos courtesy Walden Backyards

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

Get Garden Ready!

Dreaming of a beautiful flower or vegetable garden?

Savage resident and author of the Get Busy Gardening blog, Amy Andrychowicz shares these tips: Design a new garden space.

Gather ideas by searching online or in magazines and books. Start a list of all the new plants you want to add.

Plot out your vegetable garden.

Take the stress out of planting by plotting it ahead of time.

Group plants by family (cabbage, nightshade, etc.) to make crop rotation easier.

Order your seeds. Decide what to start and order them now. Sort through old seeds and toss out any that are more than 3 years old. Read the packet instructions to know when each type should be started indoors; generally it’s six to eight weeks before last frost.

Prepare for starting seeds indoors. Pull your lights and other seed starting equipment out of storage.

Sterilize seed flats and trays to prevent damping off of seedlings. Disinfect by soaking in one part bleach to nine parts water solution.

Protect your gardens during snow removal. Garden plants can be sensitive to chemicals used on roads and sidewalks.

Toss chemical filled snow onto lawn, not garden. Use chemical deicers sparingly.

Get tools and equipment ready. Beat the rush by having your lawn mower serviced or repaired now.

Clean, sharpen, and organize your garden tools.

Look for more tips at getbusygardening.com.

–Kristin Holtz

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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TRAVEL

NBYORTH

NORTHEAST Embrace winter along Lake Superior’s North Shore.

By Sarah Tieck

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

In winter, adventures may seem less accessible as ice and snow blanket the landscape and the winter wind blasts cold. But, that means you aren’t trying hard enough. Make a snow angel. Ski. Fish. Snowshoe. Or, see a new side of Minnesota’s lakes. The farther north you go, the better. That’s right, go north, where it is even colder.

To understand why, simply pause and notice the sensory feast: Winter’s starkness offers a different perspective on the forests and trails. There’s a special brilliance to the sun as it peeks through silvery grey clouds. On clear days, the sky never looks so blue as when the world is dressed in its sparkly whites. Lake Superior and the natural areas that surround it are simply stunning— especially in winter. Winter’s quiet seems to intensify the mystery and magic that is Minnesota’s North Shore.

Breathe in the chilly air, and listen, as hardy, wintering birds sing, and ice crackles.

Here are some ideas for ways you might savor a northern getaway: Splurge One of my favorite getaways is dinner, and then a gorgeous, luxurious room. The North Shore is peppered with wonderful lodgings with such in-room amenities as jacuzzis, double showers, and fireplaces. But, Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior in Tofte is a favorite—staying there seems a little bit like scoring a seat in first class. Slipping into one of their bubbling jacuzzi tubs—alone or with that special someone—is a sweet spot. But, the true “aahhhhhh” comes when you add in the view of Lake Superior while a fire crackles in the nearby hearth, making things even more magical. As for dinner, if you are staying at Bluefin, bundle up and walk to dinner. Bluefin Grille gets high marks for menu items such as cider-brined pork ribeye, Minnesota wild rice soup, and hazelnut brie topped with cranberry chutney and served with warm bread.

Find a bargain The North Shore is full of stunning natural scenery and state parks. And, camping is a favorite getaway activity—you’ll need to make a few tweaks, but camping in winter is quite doable. To make things easier, there are experienced outfitters throughout the area, such as Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply, willing to offer gear and guidance. But, for those with the know-how, options abound. Consider Tettegouche or Gooseberry Falls parks, which have heated shower and restroom facilities for winter campers. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area is also an option. Sally Nankivell, executive director of the Cook County Visitor’s Bureau, says that wherever you go, getting out into the woods is amazing. “You’re just out there,” she says. “It’s so peaceful, so quiet, and so beautiful.”

Skiing is a great way to embrace winter. Here, skiers enjoy a scenic view from a gondola at Lutsen Ski Resort. On the facing page, others enjoy the quiet beauty of winter from cabins nestled in the woods like this one along the Gunflint Trail near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

Photos Courtesy Cook County Visitors Bureau.

If you like the idea of spending some time in the wintry woods, but are not ready to commit to a night of roughing it in a tent, you could rent a cabin in Tettegouche. Don’t want to camp, but still long for a bargain?

Keep your eye on coupon websites for deals on escapes from Duluth to Grand Marais.

Relax Just want to relax? Well then sleep in first, and then start out with the secret-recipe blueberry pancakes at the Lutsen Resort—or on winter weekends, the Naniboujou Lodge in Grand Marais is known for its food and its dining room ceiling. “It’s just drop-dead, knockout gorgeous,” says Chuck Lennon of Explore Minnesota.

For some easy entertainment, you could go shopping in Grand Marais, visit the North House Folk School,

Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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or buy a ticket and ride the Gondola to the summit of Moose Mountain and take in a view that stretches 100 miles.

Après ski Forget hot cocoa in the lodge—after a day on the slopes, spend the evening dancing, shooting pool, and sipping adult beverages at Papa Charlie’s. Located at Lutsen Mountain, this dining and entertainment venue has a reputation for its live music and its showcasing of a mix of North Shore favorites and Twin Cities bands. There’s everything from Après Ski Acoustic to Live Music Mondays.

Get outside Wishing for something different than skiing, snowmobiling, or ice fishing? Make like the locals and try ice climbing or river skiing.

Ice climbing trips through Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply take adventurers into the Cascade River gorge or Devil’s Track River canyon. For littler adventurers or families, there are activities ranging from sleigh rides

14

Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

or Lutsen Mountains Ski School. Or, dogsledding adventures are popular—Stone Harbor offers such a trip, and there are other guides offering tours. “Those are huge hits with kids,” Nankivell says.

Try something different For a little something different, book a yurt. These cozy huts are part tent and part cabin. Boundary Country Trekking in Grand Marais offers the Tall Pines and Croft Yurts.

In winter, they offer seclusion and outdoor access. Take a Finnish sauna or gather around the wood stove after a day on the Banadad Ski Trail. This lodging is secluded, so staffers help bring in gear and supply water. “It kind of feels like camping in a fancy tent,” Nankivell says.

Romance in winter Stargazing on the north shore, with its crisp winter air, is the very definition of romance. Now, imagine stargazing from a heated outdoor swimming pool while snowflakes fall

from the sky and you may forget Mexico exists. Eagle Ridge Resort in Lutsen, which overlooks Moose Mountain, has an indoor/ outdoor pool. In nearby Tofte, Bluefin Bay has an outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking Lake Superior—any outdoor pool is a welcome retreat when the world is frozen.

Sarah Tieck is a Burnsville-based freelance writer.

Beyond skiing, snowmobiling, or a myriad of other activities, some fans of winter enjoy the season in a quieter way: just appreciating the wild, natural setting of the north. Two examples are shown on these pages: Discovering the silent beauty of this stand of pine trees, and spying a Blue Jay against winter’s white backdrop.

Photos by Laurie Schneider

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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CONVERSATION

Northern Forager Trout Caviar author Brett Laidlaw finds food ideas in natural settings.

By Laura French

16

Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

“As an older, male food blogger, I’m an anomaly,” Brett Laidlaw acknowledges.

As a result, he says, his blog and recently published book, both titled Trout Caviar, may be more “testosterony” than most. While his blog readers appear to be “more female and not so young,” his book-signing appearances have attracted an audience “across many demographic lines,” he says.

The varied audience probably reflects Laidlaw’s wide range of food-related interests.

Laidlaw is a locavore in the most essential sense of the word: He shops farmers’ markets and neighbors’ specialty honeys and cheeses, of course (his blogspot includes a list of local food links). But he also tromps the woods, meadows, and streams of Dunn County, Wisconsin looking for everything from wild greens to grouse to the fish eggs that gave his blog its name. Plus, the subtitle of his book is “Recipes from a Northern Forager.”

The blog is short on “recipes,” in the classic sense, but clearly describes processes that doit-yourselfers can adopt for themselves.

A mixed-green pesto, for example, begins with Laidlaw “foraging” in his St. Paul garden: “…while I was wending my way through renegade squash vines, I spied some neglected carrots, and grabbed a few sprigs of the freshest green tops to add to my pesto. I also pinched off a few tomato leaves, which are indeed edible, and bring that appetizing savory quality. I also came across some rather sad, underachieving fennel plants that I planted mid-summer. No bulbs to speak of, but I was able to glean a few feathery, anise-scented fronds. Add some sorrel, and a handful of chives. I think that’s all of it. Rosemary and tarragon I avoid—they’d be too assertive in the mix; well, maybe just a little of each, but be careful.”

Next, he says, “Rinse and spin, jam it all in the FP [food processor]. I added also the juice of one-quarter lemon and a couple good pinches of salt, then about a quarter-cup of olive oil to start. Start blending, and add more olive oil as needed to make the emulsion. This herb base can be amended later with cheese, garlic, nuts, or used as is.”

As this pesto example shows, “foraging” doesn’t require a remote acreage. A suburban background—“if it’s chemical-free, and that’s a big ‘if,’” Laidlaw says—can yield dandelion greens, purslane, wood sorrel—“It has a lemony flavor,” says Laidlaw—and lamb’s

quarters. “When they’re young and tender, they’re a delectable salad green or they can be cooked like spinach,” Laidlaw says. In addition, he notes, Lake Minnetonka is a “huge wild fish factory.”

Surprisingly, Laidlaw is quick to note that he is not a particularly adventurous eater, and his first rule for new foragers is “No experimentation.” That’s obviously true with things like wild mushrooms, but, Laidlaw says, “Even with leafy greens and berries, they’re not likely to kill you but a mistake could make

“Smoking your own bacon could change people’s lives.” you reluctant to try it again.” Even if you’re absolutely sure that you’ve identified your wild food correctly, Laidlaw says, “don’t eat a pound of it. Let it settle and see how it agrees with you.”

The same cautious approach is best for doit-yourself experiments, Laidlaw says. “Don’t try a vast amount, and don’t try complicated recipes.”

Home-style fermentation, for example, can begin with a small batch of sauerkraut.As Laidlaw wrote in a blog post from last August: “The basic formula is 2 teaspoons of salt to a pound of vegetables. You don’t need a crock to make fermented vegetables, either. A gallon glass jar will do, or a wide-mouth quart if you

want to start small. Just about any good, fresh vegetables can be fermented this way.” Put a weight on top and a plate underneath to catch the drippings. Stow the jar away in a cool, dark place for a few days. Taste-test to see when it’s tangy enough, then refrigerate to stop the fermentation.

“Not everyone is going to like fermentation,” Laidlaw says. “It’s strong-flavored food.”

On the other hand, he says, “Smoking your own bacon could change people’s lives. We’re never without it in our house.” No special equipment is needed, Laidlaw says—he uses his barbecue grill—and homemade bacon is chemical-free. Laidlaw cuts his batches into half-pound chunks and freezes them, using small portions to enhance flavor. Homemade bacon, he says, is a way to make “luxurious food from humble ingredients.” The recipe is included in the chapter of Trout Caviar (the book) entitled “The Importance of Bacon.”

With bacon, venison, and cheese high on his list of favorites, Laidlaw makes “no specific claim of health benefits” for his approach to eating, beyond the fact that it encourages an active lifestyle. “You get the physical health benefits of hiking the woods, wading trout streams and walking fields with a dog,” he says. “There’s a great deal of stress reduction.

I would go nuts without time out of doors.”

Trout Caviar, the blog, can be found at: troutcaviar.blogspot.com. Trout Caviar: Recipes from a Northern Forager, is available from the publisher, Minnesota Historical Society Press, on Amazon.com, or through your local independent bookstore (find a list at www. indiebound.org).

Laura French is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Dockside Minnesota.

ANDERSON WELDING SERVICE GENERAL REPAIR • WELDING • BRAZING • TRAILER HITCHES WINDOW SECURITY BARS • BOAT DOCKS AND ACCESSORIES You create the need, I’ll find the solution!

RONNIE ANDERSON Dunwoody Graduate 492 NORTH PRIOR AVENUE ST. PAUL, MN 55104

651.646.8321

ESTABLISHED 1930

203601

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SEASON PREVIEW 2 0 1 2

B O A T

M O D E L S

P R E V I E W

Take the Helm Here’s a preview glimpse at selected 2012 models.

Welcome to 2012 and our annual look at new boat models. Whether you’re quietly sailing the winds of Lake Minnetonka, towing water skiers or wakeboarders on Lake Riley in Eden Prairie, or up north trolling for walleye on a pristine back bay of Lake Winnibigoshish, the boat industry likely has a model for you.

Sea Ray 470 Sundancer Sea Ray’s gorgeous cruisers and yachts are among the most popular models on Lake Minnetonka. And, from stem to stern, the 470 Sundancer sport yacht is another stunner. You’ll need big water for this nearly 50-ft. pleasure craft. But whether you end up on a Great Lake or an ocean, you’ll cruise in elegant style: a galley with a full suite of high-end appliances, luxurious staterooms and salon, functional and sleek helm, well, the list just goes on. Hey, it’s fun to dream isn’t it?

Prices vary. Visit Searay.com.

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

Hunter e33 Cruising World loves this sleek, updated version of the 33, naming it Boat of the Year in the magazine’s January issue. It is the only model that Hunter Marine Corporation is releasing for 2012, says Greg Emerson, Hunter’s director of sales, and “we must have nailed it,” referring to the recognition from Cruising World.

Indeed, the magazine raves, “This 33-footer is spacious, comfortable, and fun, all at a very enticing price point.”

Prices vary and are generally all under $120,000. Visit Huntermarine.com.

The e33 is gorgeous inside and out, including the examples on this page. Photos at top right show the e33’s dinette area, the salon and a teak table on deck.

South Metro Marine and Motorsports We pick up and deliver • We service Snowmobiles, ATVs and Small Engines • Full service marine repair for all I/Os and O/Bs • 20 plus years experience in the marine industry Call today to schedule an appointment

NEW LOCATION! 424 Broadway St. N., Jordan

952-492-3167 • 612-720-2639 www.southmetromarine.com

Tune-Up ATV & Snowmobile $

99.99 Plus parts & tax Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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Tracker Targa V-18 Combo Tracker calls this model a sport utility for the water, and that’s a fair assessment. The boat comes with lots of family focused accessories such as a ski-tow pylon and boarding platform, but also includes items for the serious angler: trolling motor, fish finder, and two live wells. “It’s a big-water fishing boat one minute, a runabout the next,” proclaims Tracker’s website.

National price for a tricked-out model, plus towing and trailer package, is around $24,000. Find out more at Trackerboats.com.

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

Crestliners are popular boats on Minnesota lakes. Anglers statewide frequently opt for the Fish Hawk series below, and Sportsman series at left, which are durable, versatile, and affordable.

Crestliner Sport Fishing Boats: Fish Hawk and Sportsman models Crestliner’s boat builders are total pros.

They’ve been at it forever and it shows in elements such as versatile deck designs, smart storage solutions, and great stability and performance. The Fish Hawk series is Crestliner’s most popular model and is available in several versions: 1600, 1650, 1750, and 1850. The Sportsman series, which Crestliner calls its Backwater family of boats, is simple, utilitarian, and durable.

Sportsman models include the 14 Sportsman SS, 16 Sportsman SS/SC, and the 18 Sportsman SS/SC. Prices for the Fish Hawk boats start at about $12,600. Prices for Sportsman models start at around $9,000. Visit Crestliner. com.

diningguide TONKA BAY Hazellewood 5635 Manitou Rd. Tonka Bay, MN 952-401-0066 The neighborhood gathering place for your friends and family. Capturing the essence of hospitality in casual, comfortable surroundings that are natural beauty in all that is important to us as providers of hospitality. We are neighbors... Full bar and extensive wine list to complement a wide variety of hearty homemade entrees. Comfort food with a twist! Providing real attention to our relationship with you.

List your restaurant here for as little as $90 per issue. contact Dan at 952-345-6372 or dboike@swpub.com

Hours: Monday-Friday: 7:00 am - late night close, Saturday: 8:00 am - late night close, Sunday: 9:00 am - 10:00 pm

Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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Boat and Sports Shows

Classifieds

To list your boat call 952-445-3333

Don’t just dream about a new boat, climb aboard. Check out the latest boat models at these boat and sport shows in your area:

February 10-12: 24th Annual St. Cloud Sportsmen’s, Boat, Camping and Vacation Show, St. Cloud Civic Center, St. Cloud, cenaiko.com/sport_sc.html 15-19: 46th Annual Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel and RV Show, Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, Duluth, shamrockprod.com

Hydro Stream Vegas. 20’. 200 HP+++.

Complete restoration. 5 passenger. A real head turner! $6,900 or all trades welcome.

952-215-5421

March 1-4: 47th Annual Red River Valley Sportsmen’s Show, Fargodome, Fargo, cenaiko.com/ sport_sc.html 2-4: 17th Annual River Hills Boat and Recreation Show, River Hills Mall, Mankato, mankatomnshows.com

March/April March 28-April 1: 80th Annual Northwest Sportshow, Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, northwestsportshow.com

minnesota

Mobility an issue? Wish it was easier to get to your boat?

Now you can! Call Leisure Tram!

Home of the Cliff Climber Box 222, Shakopee, MN 55379 Larry Warden Sales • Service • Maintenance 1-800-282-2015 • 952-492-5804 wardenfromjordan@prodigy.net

marketplace List your business here for as little as $90 per issue.

2006 Crestliner Lsi Angler 2285. Lots of extras. 60 HP Mercury 4 stroke and dual axle trailer. 763-360-6251

2002 Larson 19’ FishNSki, SEI 190, 135 HP Outboard, stored indoors. $11,900. or BO, NADA guide suggested $10,500, Jon 612-730-8116

1998 Bayliner Capri Fish & Ski boat, 19 ft.

135HP. Inboard, stored inside. Excellent condition $6900. 952-412-6417

contact Dan at 952-345-6372 or dboike@swpub.com

1981 Sea Nymph 16’ fish/ ski boat, 1989 Evinrude 60hp tracker, Spartan trailer, trolling motor, livewells, locators, anchormates, pedestal seats. REDUCED! $3200. 952-445-5473

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Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

INDOOR BOAT STORAGE, SERVICE & SALES

MerCruiser

BROKERAGE 952-473-2711

SERVICE 952-470-5005

MOBILE 612-978-4750

BROKERAGE BOATS INDOORS & READY FOR VIEWING

2007 Sea Ray 240 Sundancer $47,500

2001 Sea Ray 240 Sundeck $21,900

2005 Chaparral 220 SSi $27,000

1999 Tige 21V Riders Edition $18,900

2002 MasterCraft X30 $33,900

2000 40’ Trojan 400 $79,900

2006 40’ Formula F400 SS $249,900

2006 33’ Chaparral 330 Signature $144,900

2007 31’ Four Winns 310 Horizon $73,900

1999 28’ Chaparral 2830 Limited Edition $24,900

1990 43’ Bluewater 4300 $54,900

1938 38’ Huckins Fairform Flyer w/trlr $89,900

1996 31’ Celebrity 310 Sport Cruiser $24,900

2002 37’ Wellcraft 3700 Martinique $119,900

2000 Doral 360 Sedan Express $89,900

1978 33’ Chris Craft Coho $44,900

2002 32’ Regal 3260 Commodore $79,900

2004 29’ Tiara 2900 Coronet $109,900

2008 29’ Sea Ray 290 SLX $89,900

1999 28’ Chaparral 2835 $31,900

1999 28’ Formula 280 Sunsport w/trlr $39,500

1999 28’ Sea Ray 280 BR $32,900

2006 25’ Chaparral 254 Sunesta $29,900

2000 23’ Master Craft 230SV w/trlr $23,900

2001 22’ Bayliner 2252 Cierra w/trlr $15,900

2002 19’ Chaparral SSI Sport $19,900

2009 17’ Lund Explorer SS w/trlr $19,500

1964 20’ Chris Craft Super Sport w/trlr $16,900

Visit our website for more information and additional listings. •

2004 Yamaha (2) XLT - 1200. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6,500 2000/03 Sea Doo (2) GTX w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 7,200 2009 17’ Lund 1725 Explorer SS w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 19,500 1991 19’ Master Craft Prostar 190 w/trailer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 8,900 1983 19’ Century 3000 VR w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 4,250 2002 19’ Chaparral SSI Sport. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 19,900 1964 20’ Chris Craft Super Sport w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 16,900 1999 21’ Tige 21V Riders Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 18,900 1974 22' Skiff Craft X220 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 19,900 1950 22' Chris Craft Sportman Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 19,900 2001 22' Bayliner 2252 Cierra w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 15,900 2005 22’ Chaparral 220 SSi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 27,000 2002 23’ Master Craft X30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 33,900 1999 23' Wellcraft 23 Excalibur w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 22,500 2000 23' Master Craft 230SV w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 23,900 1987 23’ Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 5,300 2001 24’ Sea Ray 240 Sundeck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 21,900 1959 24' Chris Craft 24 Sportsman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 25,900 2007 24’ Sea Ray 240 Sundancer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 47,500 2006 25’ Chaparral 254 Sunesta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 29,900 1989 26' Skiff Craft X260 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 16,900 1999 28' Formula 280 Sun Sport w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 39,500 1999 28’ Chaparral 2835 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 31,900 1999 28’ Chaparral 2830 Limited Edition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 24,900 1999 28’ Sea Ray 280 Bow Rider. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 32,900 2004 29’ Tiara 29 Coronet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 109,900 2008 29’ Sea Ray 290 SLX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 89,900 2007 31' Four Winns 310 Horizon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 73,900 1983 31' Tiara 31 Open . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 49,900 1996 31' Celebrity 310 Sport Cruiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 24,900 2002 32' Regal 3260 Commodore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79,900 2006 33' Chaparral 330 Signature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 144,900 1978 33' Chris Craft Coho . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 44,900 2000 36' Doral 360 Sedan Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 89,900 2002 37’ Wellcraft 3700 Martinique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 119,900 1938 38' Huckins 38 Fairform Flyer w/trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 89,900 2006 40' Formula F 400 Super Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 249,900 2000 40’ Trojan Four Hundred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79,900 1990 43' Bluewater 4300. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 54,900

1959 24’ Chris Craft Sportsman $25,900

1974 22’ Skiff Craft X220 $19,900

www.indoorboatstorageinc.com Dockside ◆ Winter 2012

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Dockside â—† Winter 2012