Outdoor Traditions Summer 2014

The Silent Sports

Kayaking and Canoeing

Inside o

There Is No Justice In Muskie Fishing — Or Is There?

o

The Off-Road Experience o Those Amazing Deer Antlers

o

Fishing For Fun Off The Piers Of Central Minnesota

o

Happy Trails o Exploring Minnesota’s First State Park

Summer 2014

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Issue 9 • Edition 2

Contents Features

5 Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kevin Kiehlbauch Happy Trails

6 The Silent Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Monte Draper Kayaking And Canoeing Right At Home In Lakes Country

10 There Is No Justice In Muskie Fishing—Or Is There? . . . . Dave Csanda A large muskie is like the proverbial 500-pound Gorilla.

16 Those Amazing Deer Antlers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Marchel As you read this, the fuzzy velvet covering antlers is about to be shed.

18 The Off-Road Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jake Frie A look at the past and present of off-highway vehicle riding in Crow Wing County.

26 Fishing For Fun Off Piers . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sarah Nelson Katzenberger Pier fishing is a great way to introduce the kids to a lifelong love of fishing.

Departments 14 Wild Stories

29 DNR Calendar

15 Nature’s Cuisine

30 Destinations

Excerpts From DNR Phil Seibel Smoked Duck and Caramelized Onion Pizza

22 Memory Lane

Jim Kalkofen On & In The Water

24 Destinations

Kate Perkins Uppgaard WMA

August-October outdoor events Judd Brink Itasca State Park

32 Gear Review

Phil Seibel Pack Some Pelican

33 Your Best Shot

Best of readers’ outdoor photos

Cover and contents photos by Monte Draper

A quarterly publication of the Brainerd Dispatch

. Tim Bogenschutz Copy Editor . Matt Erickson Marketing . . . . Leo Miller Art Director . . . Jan Finger Designer . . . . Andy Goble Advertising . . Dave Wentzel

Publisher

— For Advertising opportunities Dave Wentzel 218 • 855 • 5821 or 1 • 800 • 432 • 3703

— Email your comments,

suggestions or story ideas to Leo Miller leora.miller@brainerddispatch.com or mail to Outdoor Traditions Brainerd Dispatch P.O. Box 976 Brainerd, MN 56401

— Find us ONLINE at

brainerdoutdoors.com brainerddispatch.com and visit us on Facebook Outdoor Traditions is a trademarked magazine published by the Brainerd Dispatch, P.O. Box 976, Brainerd, MN 56401.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

® 2010 © 2006 Your Best Shot F Photo submitted by Sandy Burton

4

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

F

Kevin Kiehlbauch

By KEVIN KIEHLBAUCH

Happy Trails

Welcome

I remember back in 1966 when we moved from town to the country and we got our first snowmobile. I was only 8 at the time and when we went riding with our friends the trails were just paths cut through the woods. Now the Minnesota snowmobile trails are groomed. We had our mini bikes and a motorcycle, too, as we got older and we would go camping in the Pillsbury State Forest in the summer.

Then along came three-wheelers and four-wheel ATVs. Living in Minnesota there are many ways to explore the great outdoors throughout the year and my choice of travel now is ATVs. There are now side by side ATVs for the whole family to ride.

Years ago snowmobile clubs went through their difficulties getting trails established in the state and now clubs such as OHVs (off highway vehicles), OHMs (off highway motorcycles), ATVs and ORVs (off road vehicles such as trucks) are also having their difficulties. One main problem is the general public being given false information. So how do we change this? We need to educate the young and old to make our sport safer for everyone. There are OHV clubs throughout Minnesota for you and your family to join and it’s a great way to socialize with people that enjoy what you enjoy. My family belongs to the Central Lakes ATV Club (Merrifield) and Cuyuna Iron Range Riders (Ironton). Both clubs work closely with the DNR on Youth Safety Classes, Trail Ambassadors and we work closely with Crow Wing County Land Services on establishing safe OHV trails throughout Crow Wing County so everyone can enjoy them. This takes years of planning from an idea where to put a trail to the finished product and the clubs also work with other clubs

“

Living in Minnesota there are many ways to explore the great outdoors throughout the year and my choice of travel now is ATVs.

”

in other counties helping them out where needed.

Youth Safety Classes are conducted twice a year now, once in May and one in September. Did you know that if you were born after July 1, 1987, you need a safety certificate to legally ride an ATV in Minnesota?

The DNR website has great information on OHV regulations and if you’re 16 or older you can do everything online now. If you are ages 11-15 you must obtain a CD from the DNR or an ATV club. It takes about four hours to go through the CD and you need to attend a class to get your certificate.

There are roughly 240 volunteer Trail Ambassadors for Minnesota right now. The DNR conservation officers can’t be everywhere, so we are their eyes and ears, monitoring the trails and report trail conditions to the DNR. We hand out information and help those that need assistance on the trail.

Last year the Trail Ambassadors logged

about 5,371 hours and 15,499 miles on the trails.

Here’s a few things Central Lakes and Cuyuna Iron Range Riders clubs participate in: providing security for the Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza on Gull Lake and we have a booth at the Crow Wing County Fair.

Both clubs have trails in Crow Wing County that we monitor and maintain. From May to October we have monthly club rides throughout Minnesota. If you enjoy being in the great outdoors why not join a club.

If you’re interested in being a Youth Safety Instructor and a Trail Ambassadors please join a club. There are many apps out there for your smartphone and GPS that you can use to download Minnesota trails.

Our club mission is to advance the general welfare and safety of ATV/OHV use through education, to ride responsible and safely and abide by the laws and regulation, and to promote our sport by developing a positive image in the area on or off the trail.

Hope to see you on the trail. F

KEVIN KIEHLBAUCH is an avid ATV rider and President of Central Lakes ATV Club. The club meets the first Monday of every month and host monthly club rides. Contact Kevin at 218-821-7900 for more information.

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

5

The Silen

Kayaking And Canoeing Right At

T

The silent sports have grown tremendously on the waters in and around Bemidji the past several years.

Canoeing, and event more so kayaking, are gaining more of the outdoor recreation pie in the Lakes Country.

So while that old canoe remains in the rafters, it more than likely has been replaced by the

6

lighter boats -- kayaks. The lighter kayaks open the door for paddlers of all ages to explore area rivers and small lakes. The recreational kayaks or sits-on kayaks are very popular at area resorts.

A wider kayak is perfect for calm

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

water and leisure rides.

“It’s a pleasure to tool around in a kayak when we go camping,” said Pat Neurauter of Bemidji. “We purchased two kayaks when we retired. I like the fact it’s light and I can carry it myself. I

nt Sports At Home In Lakes Country

By MONTE DRAPER

F

often will paddle to the middle of a lake to read and usually our dog comes with us. Each time we camp we put both boats in the camper and we’re off.”

Pat and Mark Neurauter find Scenic State Park near Grand

Rapids their favorite paddling destination because of all the many bays to tuck into.

Paddling Pair The other side of the coin are Lee and Polly Scotland of

Monte Draper

Bemidji, avid kayakers and hikers, Polly published a book, “By Foot, Pedal or Paddle,” exploiting their numerous adventure trips.

The Scotlands own five kayaks and two of them are tandems.

The two were hooked on kayak-

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7

8194 Fairview Rd. Baxter, MN 56425

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ing while vacationing in Alaska, coming home to purchase their first tandem. They prefer to kayak large bodies of water such as the north dome of Lake Superior.

“As of today, we’ve made eight trips, each about 10 days to two weeks,” said Lee. Their kayaking adventures began in Two Harbors. They use no GPS, just a compass and really good maps.

Hugging the coastline, Lee joked, “We always know which direction is north.”

His most memorable experiences start north of the border, no roads along the cliffs; no mansions along the cliffs. “The coast is lined with islands to explore we’ve found wonderful beaches most are hidden, it’s just amazing,” Lee said.

“Each trip gets tweaked from food to clothing,” said Polly. “I started wearing cotton, three years later, we both wear full wet suits while on the water. I will never paddle in September again, it’s too cold.”

Their last adventure ended in the middle of Pukaskwa National Park in Ontario, the most remote area of their trips and they hope to finish at Sault Ste Marie in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, someday soon.

F

Classic Canoer Not all trippers choose kayaks.

John Arenz of Bemidji owns more than 20 canoes. Most are racing boats, most are wooden stripped canoes from the 80s and 90s that were set aside for better models.

He restores them and trailers the museum pieces to area races for others to paddles.

Arenz, 75, began tripping with his father in a canvas canoe while in his teens. He no longer races canoes but his two sons, Brett and Devin continue that tradition. Whether tripping, cruising or racing, his participation in a 400-mile, 10-day stage race in 1989 was the most memorable experience. Arenz has seen all sorts of designs for racing canoes which he’ll admits are taking on the shape of a hybrid kayak. “Interesting style, but it makes me claustrophobic.”

F

Monte Draper

Over the past three years, a new vessel has evolved that the younger generation has grasped, paddleboards. Paddleboards are slower, and you can’t cover the larger bodies of water, but standing up, you can see more. It requires good balance, but with practice it’s a great upper body workout.

But whether you choose kayaking, canoeing or the new paddleboarding craze, the silence and and the beauty of the water is where it is at. F

MONTE DRAPER is a longtime Bemidji area photographer and journalist. Draper has worked at the Bemidji Pioneer for more than 30 years.

He is an avid outdoorsman and especially enjoys kayaking, biking and wood carving.

Monte Draper

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

9

No Justice IN Muskie Fishing

THERE IS

Or Is There?

A

By DAVE CSANDA

A large muskie is like the proverbial 500-pound Gorilla. It’s the biggest, baddest Leroy Brown in the lake, and it can pretty much

go wherever it wants, whenever it wants. It makes its own rules, and doesn’t need to follow yours.

10

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

F

Dave Csanda

As such, muskies frequently change feeding patterns, both in the types of places they eat and the times of day at which they feed.

To say that this makes catching them both intriguing and challenging is an understatement. Yet, despite their flippant and frustrating nature, you can still locate them by playing the odds, covering water and determining the times and places you’re most likely to encounter active fish today—not yesterday, not last week, nor at the same time last year.

That being said, past experience is invaluable because it steers you toward high-percentage spots for the time of year you’re fishing. But some years are cooler than others while some are warmer, throwing the seasonal progression of fishing patterns off kilter.

And then there are those pesky weather

conditions, with cold fronts rolling through every few days during summer. On consecutive days, you go from approaching clouds and modest winds that tend to turn fish on to active feeding; to bright, milehigh skies with nary a breath of wind—those frustrating days when fish don’t seem to move, feed or show any interest in coming out to play.

This is the world of muskie fishing: peaks and valleys, highs and lows. Three days of pitching lures for 10 hours a day, with nary a follow, followed by a 90-minute window ahead of an approaching storm, where you catch three in rapid succession and see five others actively on the chew.

That’s because muskies do what they want, where they want, where they

want. The best you can do is to try to react to the conditions and be on “the spot” when their world and yours collide.

Patterning Fish No matter where you fish for muskies, they will display a variety of key feeding patterns, typically zeroing in on one or two during any particular time frame. So your first task is to head out onto the water and begin testing different types of areas to see if fish are present and active. If muskies are even halfway active, they tend to follow lures and show themselves to you, revealing their location. If they’re not, you won’t see them— meaning they’re either not there or not moving.

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In the Brainerd area, there are a variety of patterns for you to check. Some of the primary ones include:

Lakes

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• Mainlake weed points and flats • Mainlake rock reefs • Islands and narrows • Deep weedlines • Deep humps • Suspended • Bays • Night • Rivers • Current breaks near shallow rock shoals • Current breaks near shoreline points • Weed edges • Flooded shoreline timber • Deep holes at river bends • Flats adjacent to deep holes at river bends • Creek mouths • Large eddies • Night These are just some of the major patterns to check. Fish muskies a lot and you’ll discover more.

As mentioned earlier, we said that at any particular time one or two patterns tend to dominate, based on the season and prevailing weather conditions.

For example, during summer, chances are that large, mainlake

structures will draw the most fish on some of our larger area muskie lakes. Whether the fish are using rocks or weeds, well, you have to go make some casts and see where they show up.

Then mark those spots on your GPS and come back to fish them

F

Dave Csanda

Dillon Csanda caught this 52inch muskie on Mille Lacs last year, a mere two hours into his first muskie fishing trip—ever!

Being in the right place at the right time, using the right lure, is the key to success.

again during prime conditions, like dark skies, low light, wind or at night.

In rivers, current breaks around shallow rocks tend to dominate in summer, while deeper holes at river bends draw the most fish in fall. If any flooded shoreline cover is deep enough,

you may find fish there, too. This summer, the Mississippi River was high, with loads of flooded shoreline cover.

In the midst of all of this, you also begin experimenting with different types of lures: bucktails, jerkbaits, crankbaits, large softbaits, safety pin spinnerbaits, topwaters, weedless spoons, etc.

Then vary retrieve speed or trolling speed. Then experiment with different colors. You keep testing different combinations of areas and tactics until you start to see fish. Once you see them, then you focus on those kinds of areas and keep tweaking your presentations until things begin to work, converting follows into strikes.

Admittedly, even under ideal conditions, you never catch lots of muskies, which makes them harder to pattern than most other species. But you do see them and can see the difference between fish that are actively following lures with an intent to eat and lazy followers that display more of a curious nature.

The main point in all of this is you absolutely don’t keep fishing the same type of area with the same lure unless it appears to contact and interest fish. If you’re not seeing and catching anything, try something else, somewhere else.

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OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

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Wild Cards Assuming you’re doing your homework, trying a variety of areas and patterns yet still coming up empty, there are a couple of major diversions to try.

The first is night fishing.

Muskies absolutely feed at night, all year long. During the heat of summer, areas that seemed devoid of fish during the day may come alive at night as the big ‘skis go on the prowl, often in remarkably shallow water. Imagine a topwater wobbling and spurting across the surface, out there in the inky blackness, and then suddenly and savagely getting thrashed at boatside. Sends chills up your spine just thinking about it.

Second, if you fish traditional structures with no results, the fish may be suspended. That’s when you try trolling crankbaits over open water in areas where you spot suspended baitfish like ciscoes on your electronics. In summer, focus your trolling efforts maybe 5 to 15 feet deep; in fall, perhaps 15 to 30. Don’t be afraid to veer out and away from points and humps, across the adjacent open water. Suspended muskies are free to roam wherever the bait draws them.

One thing’s for sure about trolling — it’s a whole lot easier

on your arms and back than flinging big baits all day!

Chances are if it comes down to playing wild cards you’re pretty desperate because the usual haunts and methods aren’t producing. But don’t be afraid to try something different. That’s typically when you discover something new.

No Justice?

It’s been said that there is no justice in muskie fishing. You can beat the water to a froth for days, with no results. And then, as soon as you stop to sleep, someone else goes out and catches several in few hours. They were there when it happened. Unfortunately, you weren’t.

The best you can do, as we alluded to earlier, is to play the odds as best you can and go fishing when the conditions are building to a peak. And stay home to cut the grass at times when 10,000 well-placed casts won’t garner even a follow.

If you fish for muskies this summer, pay extra special attention to approaching storm fronts.

Veteran muskie anglers begin to feel the hair stand up on the backs of their necks when clouds build and thicken, the skies darken and a far-off rumble of thunder or flash of lightning portends

that t h e planets are aligning for fish to go on the bite.

That’s the time to be on the spot, flashing your lures in front of slashing teeth and jaws. When it happens, it happens quickly.

And of such brief encounters are legends born.

But then, when that storm gets too close for comfort and safety, don’t hesitate to beat a retreat for shore. No fish, no matter how large, is worth the risk of taking a lightning bolt between your shoulder blades. You can always come back and catch ‘em next time the conditions are prime.

Because it’s not the total number of hours or casts you put into the hunt. It’s the well-timed, wellplaced ones that put big fish in the boat. The more you play the odds, the more and bigger fish you’ll catch. Especially muskies! F

DAVE CSANDA is a veteran outdoor communicator/TV co-host who works at Lindner’s Angling Edge Television in Baxter.

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Wild Stories

Excerpts From Dnr Conservation Officers’ Weekly Reports (EDITOR’S NOTE: Reports appear as they were written by conservation officers.)

May 12

to work primarily fishing, boating, and AIS activity on and around area waterways. Several fishing related complaints were received and investigated. One man was found fishing without a license.

The man said he tried to buy a license but was unable to because he has not paid a fine from a previous fishing without a license citation. The man went fishing anyways and received more citations.

CO Dan Starr (Onamia) Assistance was giving to a motorist whose boat motor had been scraping on the tar for many miles. The lower unit was worn down right to the gear case and most of the prop was gone.

CO Mike Lee (Crosslake) checked anglers this past week who reported a so-so bite for walleye. Officer Lee received a call of anglers fishing from the shoreline before the midnight opening hour, along with keeping the walleye they were catching. Upon arrival to the location Officer Lee heard the suspected parties arguing with anglers that were in watercraft near shore. Their attention was not on the shoreline, which made it possible for Officer Lee to walk up to the parties and observe the walleye in their net. The party was issued citations for no angling license and taking walleye out of season, and possible charges for fishing under license revocation.

June 9 CO Mitch Lawler (Alexandria) worked fishing, boating, ATV, and AIS enforcement this past week. Lake activity has been heavy. One set of shore anglers claimed to be married and had purchased a combination fishing li-

June 2

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CO Mitch Lawler (Alexandria) reports heavy boating and fishing activity as water temps are getting closer to summer norms. Several calls for service were investigated including a possible overlimit of walleye, double tripping, angling without a license and ducks being trapped in a sewer drain. Another call resulted in enforcement action after a citizen observed an employee of a local golf course chase, run over, and kill three goose goslings with a lawnmower while mowing the fairway. The suspect was located, interviewed, and cited for the violation. He was advised to coexist with them as they are abundant on every course in the county and his actions were illegal.

CO Jeff Johanson (Osakis) continued

cense. After certain things didn’t make sense such as different last names, no wedding rings, and different addresses on their driver’s licenses, they eventually admitted they’re just dating. A ten dollar savings on licenses will end up costing them much more.

CO Mike Lee (Crosslake) received numerous complaints of bears damaging bird feeders and tearing up garbage cans. In one incident a bear came up onto a party’s deck and was rummaging through the garbage that had been placed out there that evening. While looking through the garbage it awoke the owner who was a little upset about the garbage mess, but went from mad to panic as the bear leaned up against a front door that does not latch well and sat down partially inside the home. After a short time and a lot yelling at the bear, the bear got up and wondered into the woods to the much relief of the homeowner. F

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OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

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T

Nature’s Cuisine

By PHIL SEIBEL

T

There are a few things about

the

outdoors

that trigger some of our

happiest

memo-

ries — campfire smoke, s’mores and the fresh air as you watch the summer sunset. Many of my favorite memories of the outdoors also revolved around food and the great recipes we can make thanks to our great area. Between the lakes and land we have a rich bounty that provides us with all kinds of

Smoked Duck and Caramelized Onion Pizza Prep time: 20 minutes, Cook time: 15 minutes, Servings: 6 entree size portions

Ingredients: • 1 lb. smoked duck breast (sliced thin) • 1 cracker style pizza crust (LaVosh) • 1 large yellow onion (sliced thin) • 1 Tbsp sugar • 4 Tbsp butter • ¼ c Feta cheese • Baby Spinach • Smoke roasted, or sun-dried, tomatoes • Balsamic glaze (reduced balsamic vinegar) In a medium sauté pan, melt your butter over med-high heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent. Add in your sugar and continue to sauté until the onions caramelize. Set aside. On the crust arrange a PHIL SEIBEL works at the Brainerd Dispatch and loves to cook.

bed of spinach and place the onions on top of the spinach. Place slices of the smoked duck on top of the onions. Sprinkle with the Feta cheese and smoke roasted tomatoes.

Place in a preheated 350 degree oven for 15-20 minutes or until it is heated through.

Remove from the oven and drizzle the balsamic glaze just before serving.

This recipe, along with recipes for smoke roasted tomatoes, and smoked duck breast, can be found in the Taste of the Wild cookbook available at The Brainerd Dispatch and The Northland Arboretum.

F

Phil Seibel

unique flavors and menu options.

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

15

Those Ama Deer

A

As you read this, the fuzzy velvet covering the antlers of whitetail bucks is about to be shed.

This velvet buck was photographed on Aug. 29, his antlers full grown.

He shed his velvet three days later.

F

The blood-rich skin that has fed the budding antlers since they first sprouted back in April will dry, split and peel off. The process begins with the most mature bucks, usually during the first few days in September, and ends with the younger bucks.

By mid-September most bucks in Minnesota, mature and immature, will bear antlers free of velvet. Usually a buck will hasten the velvet-shedding process by rubbing his crown on saplings and shrubs. Typically, the antlers are clear of velvet within a day or so.

Many people incorrectly refer to the headgear worn by whitetailed deer as horns. Deer grow antlers, not horns. Antlers are true bone and are shed each win-

16

ter then re-grown each spring and summer.

The annual process of deer antler growth, shedding and regrowth is fascinating. Antlers have intrigued man since he first pursued deer using spearheads chiseled from stone. Centuries

F

Bill Marchel

The fascinating antler growing process begins in early spring.

Note this young buck’s antler have just sprouted.

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

Bill Marchel

later that fascination has not waned.

The antlers of white-tailed deer differ from those of mule deer.

Whitetails feature antlers that have a single main beam from which the antler tines sprout.

Mule deer sport main beams that fork, and then fork again.

Antler growth on whitetail bucks begins in early spring and originates from a plate on the skull called a pedicel. During growth, a soft blood-rich skin called velvet covers the antlers. Antlers continue to grow throughout the summer and are fully developed by about mid-August.

As a healthy buck ages his antlers generally get larger. A typical buck will sport his largest rack

azing er Antlers

By BILL MARCHEL

when he is about 5 or 6 years old.

Past that, as his health declines, so does the size of his antlers. A fully mature buck is rare in Minnesota since most are killed at 1.5 years of age due to heavy hunting pressure.

During late August and early September the antlers solidify and the velvet peels off, exposing the hardened bone beneath.

The yearly antler growing process is complete when the antlers are shed during winter. Antler shedding progression, like velvet shedding, usually begins with the older bucks. Worn down from the rigors of the November rut, mature bucks sometimes shed their antlers as early as mid-December while the archery season is still open. Every now and then it happens; a jubilant December bow hunter prepares to drag his or her downed buck from the woods by grabbing an antler.

Much to their dismay the antler breaks loose from the skull, leaving a distraught archer holding a solitary antler.

Usually, though, the primary antler shedding period is mid-January to mid-February.

Healthy, well-fed bucks typically carry their antlers longer into the winter.

F

F

Bill Marchel

By early July, a buck’s antlers are about half grown. They grow quickly, sometimes nearly an inch per day.

Occasionally, whitetail bucks grow “non-typical” antlers. In other words the antlers contain unusual or odd tines. Sometimes bucks sport antlers with configurations so outlandish they defy nature.

An injury to the body of a buck can cause antler deformities, usually to the antler on the opposite side of the injury. This phenomenon is known as “contralateral effect.”

Biologists believe the purpose of antlers is for social ranking, not protection from predators, since antlers are shed during winter when predators pose the greatest threat.

The woods, one would assume, should be littered with dropped antlers. Why is that not so? Antlers are a source of minerals and are eventually consumed by forest creatures such as squirrels, mice and porcupines.

This fall, while you bide your time in a deer stand, think about the yearly antler growing process, and just how fascinating it is. F

BILL MARCHEL is a wildlife and outdoors photographer and writer whose work appears in many regional and national publications as well as the Brainerd Dispatch. He may be reached at bill@billmarchel.com.

Bill Marchel

By mid-September, the velvet shedding process is complete, revealing the hard antlers.

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

17

The Off-Road

By J AKE FRIE

EXPERIENCE A look at the

Off-Highway Vehicle Popularity

past and present of off-highway vehicle riding in Crow Wing County.

P

Popular Rides

The glaciers that receded over 10,000 years ago helped to shape and form the Brainerd Lakes Area into what we see today: a unique area that has become one of Minnesota’s favorite places to visit. Some areas became vast flat sand plains that make up the beaches of well-known and famous lakes.

Other areas became rolling to steep hills of varying topography, where much of the area’s great natural resources are enjoyed by thousands of recreational enthusiasts each year.

These same areas are home to many types of popular recreation activities like Off-Highway Vehicle riding and offer folks the chance to experience the great outdoors.

18

Off-highway vehicles (OHVs) include all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-highway motorcycles (OHMs) and off-road vehicles (ORVs), such as 4x4s. According to the state of Minnesota, as of December 2013, approximately 270,000 off-highway motorcycles (OHMs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were registered in Minnesota. Locally, approximately 14,500 ATVs and OHMs were registered in Aitkin, Cass and Crow Wing Counties combined. Crow Wing County ranked 8th in the state in ATV registrations even though six of the top ten counties were in the heavily populated Twin Cities or St. Cloud areas.

When asked at the time of vehicle registration which county they would use the vehicle in most often, Crow Wing County ranked fifth for ATVs and 11th for OHMs out of 87 Minnesota counties.

And people are using available trails and spending money when recreating in this region of the state. According to a 2007 survey conducted by the University of Minnesota, the northeast region of Minnesota, which includes the Brainerd lakes area, had an estimated $32.7 million in total economic spending and 1.3 million person-days in total use on ATV and OHM trails annually.

Capitalizing on an opportunity The central Minnesota trails offer quick day-trip rides or longer weekend get-a-ways. Explore the loops, twists, turns and stretches on a ride through the heart of Minnesota. Wind whispers through the deep woods.

Sunlight flickers off the sparkling waters. This is iconic northern Minnesota, with premier trails and breathtaking landscapes that draw riders back again and again.

Given the scenic backdrop, rich history, enticing local geography and popularity of off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, it is no wonder public land management agencies in the Brainerd lakes area are providing diverse recreation opportunities to people of all ages and abilities. The Crow Wing County Land Services Department administers the approximately 105,000 acres of county managed, tax-forfeited public

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

lands within Crow Wing County.

In 2011, Crow Wing County had approximately 35 miles of designated and managed summer recreation trails that included one single track OHM trail and three ATV trails. In 2012, the Crow Wing County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the Crow Wing County Comprehensive Recreation Trails Plan, It was created to more effectively carry out policy directions spelled out in the 2004 County Comprehensive Plan. Among other things, the plan identified locations for motorized and non-motorized trails as well as a process to objectively evaluate future locations in a consistent, transparent and effective manner.

Since the passage of that plan, an additional 87 miles of recreation trails, that include OHV use, have been added, including an expansion to the OHM trail and two completely new trail systems that can be used by ATVs. Crow Wing County Land Services prefers to name OHV trails “multiple use” trail systems, highlighting the positive benefits of also allowing other uses on the trail system including hiking, biking and horseback riding as well as snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the winter time.

According to Jake Frie, natural resource manager with Crow Wing County, “The multiple use concept has been around for a long time, in many places in Minnesota as well as nationally.

The concept allows the County to truly live out the vision of having diverse recreation opportunities available to people of all ages and abilities, all while protecting our natural resources. When applied appropriately, designated and

managed multiple uses trail systems can be safe, sustainable, and really fun.”

Trails range from Easiest (intended for novice riders who have mastered basic skills. Trails are wide with rolling hills and few obstacles) to More Difficult (intended for enthusiasts with well-developed skills. Trails are narrower with steeper hills and switchbacks and some moderate obstacles) to Most Difficult (suitable only for proficient or expert riders. Trails may have very steep grades, narrow, sharp alignments, rough or loose tread surfaces, and substantial obstacles).

Miller Black Bear Area Trail One of the newest multiple use trail systems that is expected to be popular with ATV users is the Miller Black Bear Area Trail.

Located approximately five miles northwest of Crosby, this 20mile trail system was approved for designation in the spring of 2014 and is currently under development by a local ATV club.

The trail system winds through rolling, variable topography that is challenging enough for the expert rider yet enjoyable enough for recreation enthusiasts new to the sport. With the Mississippi River flanked on the western boundary, users can choose to start their journey at one of two trail heads. The first trail head is the field near Cole Lake to the west off of County Road 30 in Wolford Township. The second trail head starts at Section 6 Mine Pit Lake, off of Iverson Road, in the City of Trommald. The Section 6 Mine Pit Lake trail head is rich with history as it has two scenic overlooks that provide perspective of the large iron-ore

F

Jake Frie

A dirt bike rider on the Miller Hills OHM Trail.

tailing piles that were once part of the Cuyuna Range’s active iron ore mining operations. The trail system rides almost exclusively through forested landscapes and includes three picnic areas that overlook the Mississippi River.

In the future, historical and ecological interpretive signs may become part of the scenic and picnic areas.

Miller Hills OHM Trail Located six miles east of Brainerd, the Miller Hills offhighway motorcycle (OHM) trail is the only single-track dedicated OHM trail within 60 miles of the

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

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Brainerd lakes area. Seven miles of newly expanded track are under development that will add to the existing seven miles that have been open since 2007, making this recreation trail system a destination for OHM enthusiasts.

Much of the native surface trail system has rocky material mixed in with the loam, adding structure that that improves soils used for trail treads. The rocky materials resist compaction, drain well and add traction for a challenging yet forgiving riding experience.

Over 1/2 mile of the Mississippi River borders the proposed trail as a back-drop to the northwest, which also makes it a great area for wildlife viewing and scenic beauty.

Club organized a clean-the-trail day on the public land surrounding the Miller Black Bear Area Trail and picked up 76 tires, two televisions, several mattresses and other trash throughout the area.

“Without the trail system being managed, that kind of environmental clean-up may not have been possible,” Frie said. “It is a ‘win-win’ situation from both an environmental and ride experience standpoint to have designated OHV trails.”

Managed Trail Systems The Miller Black Bear Area Trail is an example of a trail system used by recreation enthusiasts for many years prior to its designation as a multiple use recreation trail system. Many of the existing trails were created years ago by logging or mining equipment. Following the completion of those activities, recreation enthusiasts and hunters continued to use the trails for other uses.

“There is a big difference between trails legal for use and a designated and managed recreation trail system,” Frie said.

“Designation means that the trail system has been identified for a specific primary use and is promoted for those uses. Managed means that the trail system has regular maintenance, monitoring, and enforcement to ensure trails are maintained to a safe and sustainable condition.”

For example, on July 19,the Cuyuna Iron Range Riders ATV

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F

Submitted photo

A Trail Ambassador volunteer helps out trail users.

Grant-in-Aid Program and Trail Ambassadors A key aspect of successful designated and managed OHV trail systems is having sound financial resources and established partnerships with land owners and recreation user clubs in place.

First authorized in 1984, Minnesota’s Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trails Assistance Program - popularly known as the Grant-in-Aid (GIA) Program - is a cost-share program to facilitate development and maintenance of trails for use by All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), Off-Highway Motorcycles (OHMs), and Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) at the initiative of enthusiast groups or clubs, with the support and participa-

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

tion of local government sponsors. It is similar to programs for snowmobiles and cross-country skiing. Off-highway vehicle organizations apply through counties, cities or townships. All aspects of OHV trail development and maintenance are eligible to receive GIA funds. Funding comes from vehicle registration fees collected, trail pass fees plus a percentage of the state user-paid gas tax for each of the motorized groups. Another supporting component which involves many OHV trails around the state is the Trail Ambassador Program. Back in 2007 the Minnesota Legislature established an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Safety and Conservation Program to assist in promoting environmental education, safety and the monitoring of trails on public lands. Now known as the Trail Ambassador Program, it was developed and started in 2008 by the DNR Divisions of Enforcement, Parks & Trails and Forestry. For the last six and-a-half years, specially trained volunteers have played an important role in monitoring state GIA trail use, meeting and greeting fellow outdoor enthusiasts, educating trail users, giving minor aid in emergencies and providing useful information about responsible OHV use on public lands. The first year there were 69 Trail Ambassadors. Today there are over 200 that make over 2,000 educational contacts with other trail users annually.

They play a critical role in assisting land managers efforts by providing a recognizable presence on the lands they enjoy while presenting a positive and informative role model for fellow trail users.

More Information about Off-Highway Vehicles Trail Riding A little planning will go a long way to ensure a fun and safe riding experience. Remember to wear appropriate protective gear, review the current Off-Highway Vehicles Regulations booklet and keep your vehicle in good operating condition. Inexperienced riders should take a certified training course and understand the safety features of their vehicles before going on the trails.

Safety Training • ATV safety training is required for all riders born after 1987.

• OHM safety training is required for all riders under the age of 16 and riding on state or grant-in-aid trails.

• ORV safety training is recommended for all drivers.

Vehicle Registration All OHVs riding on state or grant-in-aid trails must be registered with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). To register new OHVs, visit any deputy registrar of motor vehicles. Renewals may be completed online at mndnr.gov/ buyalicense or at any deputy registrar of motor vehicles. Minnesota does recognize OHV registrations from other states. If your state does not have OHV registration, you will have to purchase a Minnesota registration or a non-resident trail pass.

Rules and Regulations Booklet For a summary of Minnesota’s safety laws, rules and regulations for off-highway vehicles, please read the current Off-Highway

Share the trail

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Submitted photo

ATV Club member Ken Irish picks up tires during the July 19 trail clean up day near the Mille Black Bear Area Trail.

Vehicles Regulations booklet. The booklet can be found online at mndnr.gov/ohv or request a copy to be mailed to you by calling 651-296-6157. Check for other government regulations or ordinances since cities, towns, counties and road authorities may further regulate the operation of ATVs under their jurisdiction.

Check with the appropriate unit of government for additional regulations. The U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regulate motor vehicle use on federal lands. Check with the managing agency before riding on these lands.

Non-resident Trail Pass A trail pass is required for non-residents operating an ATV, OHM or ORV that is not registered in Minnesota and riding on state or grant-in-aid trails. Trail passes are available through the Electronic License System (ELS).

ELS gives you three options for buying licenses: online, by phone or in person. Duplicates are also available via any of the below purchasing methods.

Segments of some trails allow ATVs to operate on the far right side of the travel lane; highwaylicensed vehicles share parts of the route so use caution. A valid driver’s license is required to operate an ATV anywhere it is legal on road rights-of-way including ditches, inside and outside slopes and crossing roads. The only exception would be on portions of a designated trail for that vehicle type that specifically includes a road right-of-way.

Off-highway vehicle trail atlas Highlights of the atlas include maps, descriptions, parking and other information for 51 state and grant-in-aid trails for all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles and off-road vehicles. This full-color, 72-page publication is free and copies of the OHV trail atlas can be ordered, by contacting the DNR information center info.dnr@state.mn.us. Include a mailing address and daytime phone number.

For more information about specific Off-Highway Vehicle recreation trail systems in Crow Wing County, visit Crow Wing County’s webpage at www.crowwing.us and type “recreation” in the search box. F Contributing to this story were Leland Owens, recreational vehicle coordinator with the DNR Division of Enforcement; and Mary Straka, natural resources program consultant with the DNR Division of Parks and Trails.

Their contributions were for the Grant in Aid segment, trail ambassador program section, and on information about OHVs. JAKE FRIE Natural Resource Manager with Crow Wing County Land Services Department.

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Jim Kalkofen

By JIM KALKOFEN

O O

n

&

Memory Lane

I

n

T

h e

W

a t e r

Once upon a time, some 60 years ago, my brain was hijacked. It seemed innocent in

retrospect but one little hook, one tiny fish and one more sunset on the lake caused me to have fish-slime on the brain and it has never been the same.

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Jim Kalkofen

Jim Kalkofen (right) at 7, ready to go fishing with his sister Kay and brother Tom.

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dam backed up the water into our own private playground. We spent most every summer day somewhere on the pond, in the pond or around the pond. It stretched about two miles and every shoreline homeowner knew us, brought us cookies and lemonade, watched us fish and welcomed us to be on their property. As I think

back, they did this for a reason - this is exactly how youngsters should enjoy summer days.

And, we did.

We gradually explored further and further from town, moving upstream by biking along country roads to the next bridge and the next one. We would park the bikes (we never

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When winter turned to planting season, my dad cultivated and planted the garden. Mom did the rest with the help of three kids (me included).

To get the juiciest, reddest, ripest tomatoes and tastiest sweet corn, dad incentivized the neighbor kids by organizing a fishing tournament.

These were not the modern day Al Lindners and Gary Roaches, but the 7, 8 and 9 year olds that would do anything to win a quarter or a dime. All we had to do was have the most suckers, shiners and chubs in the bucket at the end of the contest. When my buddy Denny scored 25 cents for 26 fish, the dime to me for 22 didn’t seem that exciting. But, there would be another day.

Dad paid all kids at least a nickel. This ongoing event gained more momentum each season. We graduated from cane poles and corks to spincast rods and reels. We thought we were smarter than the fish, because our counts increased. Looking back, this competition and a few other experiences tilted us towards becoming forever “fish-heads.”

Living in a small northern Wisconsin town with a river flowing through it was a bonus. A

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

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Jim Kalkofen

Jim Kalkofen at 13, holding a northern pike. in the hottest place I’ve ever been. Suddenly the real world loomed with a wife and baby and the necessity after service to find a job. With a journalism degree, I landed in central Wisconsin at a newspaper. Can you believe it was in the county where the most trout streams originated? It also had great panfish and bass lakes. After a few years newspapering, my fish-brain began thinking, and I accepted a post as the director of marketing and public relations at MEPPS. That brought my journey full circle. The next stop was at the big white plant on Highway 45 in Fond du Lac at Mercury Marine. Being there for 10 years was more fishing fun and learning than I could imagine. When Al Lindner asked me to manage the Professional Walleye Trail for In-Fisherman, I accepted those duties and fishing was now officially my life. My passion from all those early years and time on the water as a youngster followed by a career that swept me down current from one good fishing hotspot to another was complete.

We have a tendency to look back and wonder, “What if... .” What if I would have remained in the news business? Or, accepted a job on a

merchant marine ship carrying oil from the middle east to the far east. That was my first job offer while still in the Navy at a salary I couldn’t believe for a 24-year old. I passed, because after being at sea for most of two-plus years, I knew that family was more important.

I know that fishing three or four times every week is a part of my life. Sure, I ask my wife now, something that did not always happen decades earlier. Evenings, mornings and several are all-dayers are mixed together chasing walleyes, crappies, bluegills, smallies or largemouth, pike and muskies, salmon and trout. As long as the species I’m after cooperates, I’m happy. Occasionally, a slight adjustment to other species saves the day.

When pouring all the learning, lessons and the time on the water into one big mixing bowl, it resulted in my favorite all-time way to fish.

I love to explore new waters. I relish the challenge. I have as much fun unraveling the secrets from maps, locals, fisheries biologists and other research as hitting the water. When I turn on my electronics and begin my search on a new lake or new stretch of river, it’s amazing how often my guesstimate of where to go and how to fish are right on the mark. That’s when I look back down “Memory Lane” and thank God for the gift of loving His great outdoors, especially the fishy part of it. F JIM KALKOFEN has been director of the largest walleye tournament circuits for two decades and was inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame.

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thought they might be taken) and spend hours in the water. The further we ventured upstream, the colder the water and the more brook trout flashed after our nightcrawlers and spinners and thumped in our creels.

In the 1950s, we fished for fun, to explore and to eat fish. Learning how and why coupled with what and where was constantly occurring, even though we didn’t think of it that way. We gave fresh fillets to aunts, uncles, grandparents, neighbors and those who were a bit needy.

While doing this, we soaked up lots of fishy lessons by discovering what to do when heavy rains drenched the area, where to fish in the dog-days of August, what to use in the lily pads and on the weed edges, how to fish in weeds and the moods of lakes, rivers, flowages and ponds.

Dad sensed this passion. He indirectly suggested that working for the cash necessary to support my habit would be a good idea. In this memory lane story, I thought about those many early jobs from age 8 through high school, including the stream minnow contest for his garden. Some were brief, others long-term. My resume: picking beans and potatoes by hand (paid by the bag), inoculating mink kits, shoveling snow, cutting grass, picking apples and helping seniors cut and crush them for applesauce, selling many products door-to-door including Cloverine Suave (won my first BB gun doing this), selling Milwaukee Journal subscriptions (won a trip to the Seattle World’s Fair) and guiding a few people out of my dad’s used (new to him) 14-foot boat. They had to drive and tow the boat to the lake. I worked at the Texaco station where we pumped gas, checked fan belts and oil levels and washed windows. My hours were Friday from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., and then I went fishing. I slept for a few hours Saturday afternoon, and did the evening shift again. I was the used car detailer when auto detailers weren’t even thought of for a Rambler dealer at $1 an hour.

There were other jobs, but remember, I had to fit fishing into this mix, and somewhere there was school. With an eventual scholarship at University of Wisconsin-Madison, somehow I was able to compartmentalize all these incidental jobs, chores, school, band, debate and still create time for fishing.

I graduated and immediately stepped into the real world of Vietnam, with a couple tours

Kate Perkins F

By KATE PERKINS

Uppgaard WMA

A Place For People And Wildlife

I

Uppgaard WMA Has 114 Acres To Explore And Enjoy

In 1987, 114 acres of land off Crow Wing County Road 16 between Ideal Corners and Crosslake was donated to the people of the state of Minnesota. It became the Uppgaard Wildlife Management Area (WMA), a natural area landscaped specifically for wildlife, but also meant to be enjoyed by residents and visitors.

“It’s a public place that provides natural habitat for wildlife, for people to enjoy that wildlife and the native plant communities,” said Kevin Woizeschke, nongame wildlife specialist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Woizeschke has been involved with the WMA since its inception more than 25 years ago.

The 114 acres of the Uppgaard WMA are navigated by trails open to the public where visitors can see woods, bluffs, meadows, two ponds and more. The area has two wildflower gardens, one shady and one sunny; a wildlife orchard; wildlife viewing blinds; nest boxes and platforms; and plenty of benches and places to sit and admire the landscape.

Dr. Bob Uppgaard and his late wife, Barb, donated the land. Bob had planted thousands of trees on

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the land, and he and his family had maintained it as cross-country ski trails.

“We had decided that we would break it up into lots, and we had a map out there of what it looked like,” Bob said. Bob and Barb’s ideas changed, though, and they decided they’d rather give the land away than sell it.

Years after donating the land, the Uppgaards remain heavily involved in the WMA. At 90 years old, Bob Uppgaard frequents the area. Katy Uppgaard Flaherty, Bob’s daughter, is a member of the Grub Club, a community effort started to maintain Uppgaard WMA. The Grub Club meets at the WMA every Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. They’re currently seeking members, and anyone can join by simply showing up.

Flaherty said the Grub Club is the only group of its kind. Every

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

week they take on new projects to maintain and improve the WMA, including laying wood chips, planting and weeding.

Once the Uppgaard’s land became a WMA, it became a demonstration site to show landowners with acreage how they can provide wildlife habitat. Sixteen landscaping elements serve to attract and support wildlife in the area, all taken from a book by Carroll Henderson, titled “Landscaping for Wildlife.”

Vegetative and structural components of the landscaping for wildlife demonstration are scattered throughout the WMA. The plants are almost entirely native species, and several different varieties of plants serve as food sources to wildlife year-round.

There are many nest boxes in the area, and brush and rock piles and dead or dying trees are left in

the area to serve as cover, nesting sites and food sources.

The Uppgaard WMA continues to serve as a landscaping for wildlife demonstration area, but has become a place for the public to visit to enjoy the woods, and a place to learn.

“People use it just as an area to get out and enjoy nature,” Woizeschke said. In the winter, the trails are used for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. In the summer, it’s popular for hiking or wildlife watching. Motorized vehicles aren’t allowed in the area.

Schools also use the WMA. Teachers lead students through the area to learn about the wild plants and animals in the area.

Bob pointed out the tadpole walkway, which is a dock that extends over one of the WMA’s ponds. Students can look into the water and see tadpoles in the pond. Wildlife blinds allow visitors to see wildlife from the shore of the pond without the wildlife seeing them.

When the Uppgaards donated the land, a grant of $100,0000 in matching funds was freed as part of the Reinvest in Minnesota critical habitat matching program.

The money was used to create two bald eagle nesting sites on Trout Lake near Bovey in northwestern Minnesota.

F

Kate Perkins

Dr. Bob Uppgaard and his daughter, Katy Uppgaard Flaherty, stand at the entrance to Uppgaard WMA, a 114acre natural area with trails for the public. Bob and his wife, Barb, donated the land to the community in 1987. The Uppgaards remain involved with supporting and maintaining the WMA.

Woizeschke said the nesting sites are still in operation. When they were constructed, bald eagles were rare; in 1983 there were only two active eagle nests in Crow Wing County. Today there are more than 50.

Bob and his daughter remarked on how different the land would look now, had it been broken up and sold as lots.

“There’s a beautiful bluff on the land. You put a home there, and that bluff is gone,” Flaherty said.

“It would be all chopped up,”

Bob agreed. He and his family do their best to maintain the natural environment on their own property, as well. Bob built a cabin on his property himself after buying the property, just across the road from Uppgaard WMA, in 1956.

They’ve made the land a conservation easement. It guarantees that the land will always be protected and current buildings can never be expanded by more than 50 percent.

Today, Woizeschke said the land that makes up Uppgaard WMA would be worth more than $1 million. But, thanks to the Uppgaard family, it will remain a place to the public can visit and enjoy.

To donate to the Uppgaard WMA, checks can be sent to Uppgaard WMA Donations, c/o Nongame Wildlife Program, 1601 Minnesota Dr., Brainerd, MN, 56401. Donations are used for maintenance materials and maps of the area. Nonfinancial donations of time and effort are also welcomed and appreciated at the Grub Club each Tuesday morning. F KATE PERKINS, a former Echo Publishing staff writer, is a freelance writer from northern Minnesota.

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g n i h s i F

T

n u F r Fo e h T f f O

Of Central Minneso

There aren’t many warm weather activities more iconic of summers in Minnesota than fishing from a pier. It’s the perfect photo opportunity with a first time tiny fisherman, their line in the water and feet hanging off the dock, waiting for something to bite. It doesn’t require much - just a fishing pole, some bait and a little patience. Plus, pier fishing is a great way to introduce the kids to a lifelong love of fishing.

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OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

s r e i P e People walk along the fishing pier in Crosslake at the Crosslake Recreation Area.

Whipple Lake, Baxter On hot summer days, Whipple Beach is the place to be. The large sandy beach is often packed with kids and their sand toys, but

south of the beach near the lake’s public boat access is the lake’s public fishing pier. Eager anglers might hook a bluegill, often seen swimming around the pier. The lake is also known to hand over northern pike, crappies, bullhead and large mouth bass.

One of the perks of fishing from Whipple’s pier is the lake is perfect for a quick dip when the mercury gets extra high. It’s sandy bottom and clear waters make cooling off extra tempting.

Pillager Lake, Pillager Tucked away just outside the Pillsbury State Forest, the beach at Pillager Lake is easy to miss.

The beach is right off Cass County Highway 1, with a small pier on

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esota

Minnesota has more than 300 fishing piers throughout the state with dozens in the Brainerd lakes area. Piers are provided by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) with local government assistance, which often helps pay for the pier’s installation and maintenance.

Most are small and inconspicuous, but provide a great deal of entertainment for everyone from the avid fisherman to the first timer just learning to tie on their hooks.

Enjoy Your Summer!

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Kelly Humphrey, Brainerd Dispatch

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Pine River Dam, Cross Lake The fishing platform at the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers Coulter Recreation Area is located just below the dam where the Whitefish Chain empties into the Pine River. Below the Whitefish Chain, the river contains walleye, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass.

F

Kelly Humphrey, Brainerd Dispatch

Jon Metag catches a sunfish off the fishing pier in Crosslake at the Crosslake Recreation Area.

the south shore of the lake. Bluegill, northern pike, largemouth bass and walleye are varieties caught most in the lake. There are yellow perch in the lake, but, according the DNR, the catch has been slim for several years. The lake was last stocked with walleye in 2013.

South Long Lake, Brainerd With all the charm of old lake country, South Long Lake’s fishing pier brings back the yesteryear of lake living. Houses around most of South Long are separated from the shoreline by public road, making the view of the lake accessible from nearly every side. The fishing pier is hidden in South Long Lake Community Park on the lake’s south shore, just off Highway 25. The lake was last stocked with walleye in 2013, but also has a population of bluegill, hybrid sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch and white sucker.

Watch out, the lake is also known to produce bowfin, also known as dogfish. It’s the kind of fish with a face only a mother could love.

Boom Lake, Brainerd Near Kiwanis Park, Boom Lake is small and the fishing pier

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often spends early summer underwater. Once the pier makes its appearance, it’s a great spot for fishing with young children near the Mississippi River without actually being on the river. The lake was last stocked with bluegill in 2004.

Pennington Pit, near Ironton One of more than a dozen mine pits abandoned three decades ago, Pennington Pit is one of the largest mine pits in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.

The deep blue pit’s fishing pier is located at the west end of the lake at the boat access. Fish in the lake include blue crappie, bluegill, sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, rainbow trout, bass and yellow perch. Construction may hinder access to mine for a large part of the summer.

Mississippi River The Mississippi boasts several fishing piers and platforms throughout the state. In Crow Wing County, locations include a platform at Green’s Point four miles north of Brainerd, a platform at Fort Ripley Landing just north of Fort Ripley and pier on the river near Kiwanis Park.

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

Rice Lake Reservoir, Lum Park, Brainerd A quiet reservoir of the Mississippi, Rice Lake fishing includes black crappie, bluegill, bullhead, catfish, sunfish, walleye and more. The lake’s fishing pier is fairly large and railed - perfect for curious young anglers. The pier is located near the boat access on the southeast side of the lake.

Serpent Lake, Crosby Tucked in between Crosby Memorial Park and the city’s skate park, Serpent’s small beach area and fishing pier are perfect for the smallest anglers. Fishing at Serpent might include sunfish, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, northern pike, rock bass, walleye, yellow perch and more.

The lake was last stocked with walleye in 2013.

Be sure to check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for current fishing regulations and restrictions. For more information on Minnesota lakes and fishing piers visit www. dnr.mn.us/lakefind. F

SARAH NELSON KATZENBERGER, a former Brainerd Dispatch staff writer, is a freelance writer who enjoys the outdoors.

30 — Wild rice harvest season closes.

15 — Statewide wild rice harvesting season opens.

October

15 — Camp Ripley Archery hunt application deadline.

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August

Bill Marchel

DNR Calendar 15 — Camp Ripley Youth Archery hunt application deadline.

4 — Archaeology Day at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.

15 — Youth deer hunts application deadline.

11 — Pheasant season opens.

15 — Mille Lacs Kathio “I Can Fish” program.

15-16 — Camp Ripley archery deer first season.

22 — Mille Lacs Kathio “I Can Fish” program.

16-19 — Special Camp Ripley youth deer season.

29 — Mille Lacs Kathio “I Can Fish” program.

18 — Raccoon, red fox, gray fox, badger, opossum north hunting and trapping season opens.

30 — Archery in the Park at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.

September

4 — Fall turkey season opens.

25 — Raccoon, red fox, gray fox, badger, opossum south hunting and trapping season opens.

1 — Labor Day.

25 — Otter, mink, muskrat and beaver furbearer trapping north zone season opens.

1 — Bear season opens.

25-26 — Camp Ripley archery deer second season.

1 — Snipe and rail hunting season opens.

31 — Halloween.

1 — Mourning dove season opens.

8 — Smallmouth bass, 2014 catch-and-release only season opens.

11 — Patriot Day. 13 — Grouse and partridge season opens.

13 — Archery deer season opens.

20 — Woodcock season opens.

22 — First day of fall.

27 — Prairie chicken season opens.

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ON-SITE INSTALL Specialists

218

829-5529

MARINE AUDIO • CUSTOM INSTALLATION LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED 710 W. WASHINGTON ST. BRAINERD

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

29

F

Itasca State Park

Judd Brink

By JUDD BRINK

Exploring Minnesota’s First State Park

T

The mighty Mississippi River starts its 2,000 mile journey from Lake Itasca, found within Itasca State Park. Minnesota’s first state park was established on April 20, 1891, and is the second oldest state park in the country. A recent guiding trip to see the park’s birds and wildlife with first time visitors from Washington, D.C. got me thinking about writing an overview about Itasca State Park. The park is only two hours from Brainerd and is 20 miles north of Park Rapids, which is just close enough for a day trip. The park totals over 32,000 acres, including a 2,000 acre wildlife sanctuary where half a million people visit each year. Itasca is one of my favorite places to visit in the state for its history, wildlife and scenic views.

Itasca’s early pioneers, Jacob Brower and Mary Gibbs, were probably the most influential people during the planning and preservation of the park we see today. Jacob Brower, an early surveyor, archeologist and statesman got the park established by one single vote. The old growth pine forest found along Lake Itasca was one of the reasons the park was protected. Mrs. Gibbs became the park’s first manager and first in North America in 1903. A story from a park brochure talks about her “almost” being shot by loggers who wanted to continue the logging operations of the big pines. Today, in their honor, the park has the Jacob Brower Visitor Center and the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center. The Brower center is the main visitors’ center, with displays and exhibits along with the park offices. The Gibbs center offers a larger gift shop, a small café and a large replica of the Mississippi River. A trail also leads you to the infamous headwaters of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca, where the river is only about 30 feet across.

The Mississippi River is one of the largest river systems in the world and is the largest in North America. The watershed for the Mississippi River includes 31 states and two Canadian provinces totaling 1.2 million square miles, which is almost 40 percent of the lower 48 states. The water journey from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico takes about 90 days. The river offers many recreational opportunities such as boating and fishing, but it’s also important to our local economy

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OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

and the commerce and industry for the country. Just over 60 percent of all grains are exported by river navigation to New Orleans and beyond. The Mississippi also provides us with a water supply for irrigation and our homes and businesses. Many wildlife species also inhabit this water ecosystem such as fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds. The spring and fall bird migration can be observed along the river corridor as they use this landmark for navigation. One of the best places to see bald eagles along the Mississippi River is here in Minnesota at Lake Pepin, where thousands of eagles can be seen in early March. This area is also home to the National Eagle Center.

This portion of the state hasn’t changed much since the formation of the park, giving visitors a sense of going back in time where trees are 100 feet tall with rustic cabins and buildings. In fact, the Civilian Conservation Corps had constructed many of buildings in the 1930s as part of a work program for the unemployed. Today you can still enjoy the rustic experience by staying overnight or dining in the Douglas Lodge, a log style building that is over 100 years old.

There are also other cabin-like buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps crews of the 1930s. Many of the buildings are registered with the Minnesota Historical Society or as national landmarks. I particularly enjoy seeing the park’s old growth red and white pines as they tower over the many lakes and river. The park holds the state records for both the

tallest red and white pines that stand over 150 feet tall and are close to 200 years old. They still show old scars from past wildfires. You can also visit an area known as “Preachers Grove” where many large 100-year-old red pines can be seen.

Much of northern Minnesota was old growth forest but many of these large trees were logged and sent downriver to the mills. If the park had not been established, the remaining trees probably would not have been preserved for future generations to see this virgin forest. Wildfires have also played an important role in pine regeneration by creating new seed beds for the seedlings to thrive. The park now uses prescribed fires and other controlled methods to mimic natural disturbances that allow for the pine regeneration. Today the state only has about 25,000 acres of old growth forest, with 6,000 of them found within the Itasca State Park borders. The flora and fauna are also so unique that a biological field station was set up back in 1909 to monitor the parks’ forest and wildlife. The University of Minnesota now runs the field station for student projects during the summer months and it continues to be the longest running field station in the country. The park is such a fun place to stay and study for the summer. At one point I was considering taking an ornithology course that was offered. There is so much more to discover here than just the big trees, but they are the main reason the park was established in the first place.

If Itasca State Park is on your next travel destination list the time of year will determine what type of experience you will enjoy. I enjoy bird watching, hiking, biking and the fall colors, so for me the spring or fall season can be very rewarding. There are many lodging options available if you wish to stay longer than a day to explore this park and its 32,000 acres. The peak season for most

F

Judd Brink

The famous rock crossing at Lake Itasca and the start of the Mississippi River.

parks is between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and again keep in mind that the park receives over 500,000 visitors a year. During our tour of the park we noticed the number of people quickly outnumbered the birds but we managed to find some interesting birds. If you are looking for a more relaxing and peaceful experience I would sug-

gest visiting during the off-peak season during the week. For more information about Itasca State Park and to make a lodging/camping reservation for a future trip please visit the Minnesota DNR site at http://www.dnr. state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/index. html. Maybe this overview of Itasca State Park will help you plan a visit in the near future where you can see what Mary Gibbs and Jacob Brower saw a long time ago. A park entrance fee is required to enter the park, a yearly pass can get you access to all the parks.

Happy Birding! F JUDD BRINK Judd Brink is a local birding expert. He also leads birdguided walks and tours.

Contact Judd at jb@mnbackyardbirds.com.

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

31

By PHIL SEIBEL

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Gear Review

a c k

Pelican 1910 and 1920 LED Flashlights

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These rugged, aluminum body flashlights were the perfect addition to the gear pile. With 72 and 120 lumens of light, respectively, they easily cut through the darkness. They weigh in at only a couple of ounces (with batteries) so they are easy to carry all day. We’ve been carrying the 1920 everyday in a pocket and it’s been handy, easy to use and super bright.

Highlights: Easy access button, shock and water resistant, uses AAA batteries so they’re easy to find and long-lasting.

Watch out for: Nothing - these are the best flashlights for the price ($25-$35) that we’ve seen in a while.

OT Grade: A+. Worth every penny, high quality construction and built to last.

o m e

P

Pelican ProGear Elite Cooler

This grizzly proof behemoth is the king of coolers. With thick walled insulation it easily kept ice frozen for a full seven days with regular usage and storage in a hot car. The dual locking latches are easy to operate one handed and secured the cooler with a positive click. They also have extended handles along with the regular grips for ease of carrying with two people. We tried the 35-quart version and it lived up to the name of Pelican - rough and tumble and ready for action.

Highlights: One word - tough.

The sloped bottom also made draining easy and thorough. The tie down notches and metal locking hasp were also nice touches.

Watch out for: There are no wheels, while a two-person carry is simple and one person is manageable, you can’t roll this around as easily as other coolers.

OT Grade: A+. The no wheels is a bit of a downer but the performance of the cooler itself is top notch.

PHIL SEIBEL He enjoys being outside with his family, whether its hiking, fishing, boating, or just playing in the yard, enjoying a Minnesota summer is something Phil and his family all enjoy!

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OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

e l i c a n Pelican 9420 Remote Area Worklight

While usually relegated to the work sector to shed light in shady situations, the 9420 was perfectly adapted to the camping and outdoor world. With 1000W high beams and 500W lows, it’s got enough light power to turn a moonless night into midday sun.

The battery-operated light extends to about 5 feet high and the light angles to give great flexibility. It compactly folds for travel and includes sling swivels so you can shoulder it easily. The battery lasts a surprising two hours on high and four hours on low, with the available recharger you can keep the light going non-stop until you are finished setting up camp.

Highlights: LED power, no heat, easy to use and transport, weighs in at only 8 pounds - you will not find more light power for the package.

Watch out for: Even with the compact size it is still a little large.

OT Grade: A+. For the length of battery, light output and weight, this is a must have for those that are planning long days in low light conditions. F

Your Best Shot F Photo submitted by Becky Miller Becky Miller of Deerwood wrote: “Here’s a shot of the sunset on June 22nd taken with my smart phone from my dock on Portage Lake at 9:07 PM.” Would you like to see your photo published in a future edition of Outdoor Traditions? Please send digital photo files with subject “YBS” to outdoors@brainerddispatch.com. Minimum file size required is 2MB. Also give the name of the photographer and a brief description of the shot.

Your Best Shot F Photo submitted by Rose Zak

Rose Zak of Brainerd wrote: “A doe and her fawn were grazing on our lawn one morning this week.

When they finished eating they groomed each other.”

www.brainerdoutdoors.com

33

Outdoors Directory • Summer 2014 Audio

Conservation/Education

Nursery

Lakes Audio

Northland Arboretum

Badoura State Forest Nursery

Bait & Tackle

Food & Drink

Outdoor Equipment

710 W. Washington St. Brainerd, MN 218-829-5529 www.lakesaudio.com

14250 Conservation Dr. Brainerd, MN 218-829-8870 www.northlandarb.org

Tutt’s Bait & Tackle

EAT. DRINK. RELAX.

Boats & Recreational Bay Lake Marine

21517 Archibald Road Deerwood, MN 218-534-3435 www.baylakemarine.com

218.829.3918 WWW.ERNIESONGULL.COM

Von Hanson’s Meats

13377 State Hwy. 25 Brainerd, MN 218-828-4728

www.brainerdsports.net

15807 Audubon Way Baxter, MN 218-822-4190 www.westsideliquor.com

www.brothersmotorsports.com

Power Lodge

17821 Minnesota 371 Brainerd, MN 218-822-3500 www.powerlodge.com

15811 Audubon Way Baxter, MN 218-822-2888 www.vonhansons.com

Westside Liquor

Brothers Motorsports

Aldrich Tractor

19828 U.S. 10 Verndale, MN 218-445-5430 www.aldrichtractor.com

Midwest Machinery 10424 SQUAW POINT RD., EAST GULL LAKE

Brainerd Sports & Marine

8194 Fairview Rd. Baxter, MN 218-829-6656

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27358 State Highway 18 Garrison, MN 320-692-4341 www.tuttsbait.com

13885 State Hwy. 64 Akeley, MN 218-652-2385 www.dnr.state.mn.us/

7045 Foley Rd. Baxter, MN 218-829-5356 800-568-4338 www.midwestmachineryco.com

Salon The Men’s Depot

423 NW 7th St. Brainerd, MN 218-454-2887 www.themensdepot.com

Marina Gull Lake Marina

8089 Lost Lake Road Lakeshore, MN 218-963-1010 www.gullmarina.com

John Schrom of Pillager wrote: “My girls and I got to enjoy a beautiful morning on Hardy Lake. Sophia, 6, and Gabby, 4, were able to catch a couple of fish off the dock.”

Your Best Shot F Photo submitted by John Schrom

34

OUTDOOR TRADITIONS

UFORCE 800

THE GAME CHANGER. Say hello to 800 V-twin cc’s of strong, dependable hired hand. After a tough workweek, it’s ready to kick up some dust on the weekend. Go ahead and buy one. It won’t be long before you, and everyone else realizes you made a Smart Move. CFMOTO is coming strong.

We are excited and proud to bring the next big powersports brand to this area. Stop in. You will be amazed!

MIDWEST MACHINERY CO. MIDWEST MACHINERY CO. 1120 2ND STREET NW 7045 FOLEY ROAD AITKIN, MN 56431 BAXTER, MN 56425 (218) 927-2140 (218) 829-5356 WWW.MIDWESTMACHINERYPOWERSPORTS.COM ATV’s can be hazardous to operate. For your safety, avoid paved surfaces or public roads; always wear a helmet, eye protection, protective clothing and seat belts, if so equipped. CFMOTO’s ATV’s are licensed for riders 16+. Never carry passengers unless vehicle is designed for it. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. No stunt driving and avoid excessive speeds/sharp turns. Be sure to take a safety training course. For information call SVIA at (800) 887-2887 or contact your CFMOTO dealer.

# " % ! " %

" # " # # " $ ! "

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t 'PMFZ 3E Baxter 218-829-5356 | OE 4USFFU /8 Aitkin 218-927-2140

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*Offer valid 7/1/14–9/5/14 at participating U.S. dealers to U.S. residents on new and unused 2009–2014 Arctic Cat ATV and Prowler models, excluding youth, government, rental and special services models. See dealer for details. FINANCING AS LOW AS 5.9% FOR 60 MONTHS provided through ShefďŹ eld Financial and is subject to credit approval; not all applicants will qualify for credit. Each consumer will be charged a $50 consumer document fee. Financing promotions void where prohibited. 2-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY valid on 2014 models and includes six-month limited factory warranty and 18-month extended service contract through Cornerstone. REBATES UP TO $800 valid on 2009–2013 models and varies by model purchased. Offer subject to change without notice. Excludes tax, freight and dealer setup. Only ride an ATV that is right for your age. Supervise riders younger than 16. Always wear a seat belt on ROVs; never carry a passenger in the cargo box; all riders must be able to place both feet on the oor while keeping their back against the back of the seat. We recommend all ROV operators have a valid driver’s license and that all riders take a training course and read and understand the owner’s manual before operation. See your dealer for safety or training information or visit http://rohva.org. Š2014 Arctic Cat Sales Inc., Thief River Falls, MN 56701.

Brainerd Sports Outlet

Summer Sell Down!

All remaining 2014 Alumacraft Fishing Packages and Misty y Harbor Pontoons have been

Clearance Priced!

Free Exten d Motor Warr ed anties and Great Finance Ra tes!

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Junctions Hwys 18 & 25 SE Brainerd, MN Phone: 218-828-4728 Toll Free: 800-450-7669 Visit our website www.brainerdsports.net For Our Complete Inventory of Boats, Pontoons & snowmobiles

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ASK ABOUT WINTERIZATION AND STORAGE SPECIALS!