Getting Out | March 2019 by Leader Telegram

Event Program

• US & Canadian Resorts • Boats and ATVs • Outfitters & Charters 53,000 sq ft of Recreational Displays • Over $4,000 in Door Prizes

CHIPPEWA VALLEY EXPO CENTER 5150 Old Mill Plaza Dr

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

PRESENTED BY

PRESENTATIONS & DEMONSTRATIONS

150 OVER

EXHIBITORS

Fri | Sat | Sun March 15-17, 2019

wisportshow.com

Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

AREA’S BIGGEST FREE BOAT SHOW OVER 100 NEW AND USED BOATS, MOTORS

60,000 SQUARE FEET INDOORS HEATED

$1,000 INSTANT SAVINGS ON NEW PACKAGES

2 YEARS ADDITIONAL MERCURY WARRANTY FREE ($700 VALUE)

SPECIAL FINANCE RATES DURING SHOW

PONTOON, ALUMINUM FISH, FIBERGLASS, ENGINES SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AND EVERY BUDGET USED BOAT AND MOTORS 30 Available...................................................... SALE ..........................................SAVINGS ‘90 Northwoods pontoon Evin 20 hp ............................................................. $2,499........................................$1,012 ‘95 20’ Northwoods cruise pontoon Evin 25 hp ............................................. $3,499........................................$1,475 ‘96 16’ Northwoods tiller Mercury 25 hp trailer............................................. $3,999........................................$1,501 ‘95 20’ Grumman sportfish pontoon Johnson 30 hp...................................... $3,999........................................$2,107 ‘95 17’ Lund Pro Guide tiller Merc 60 hp trailer............................................. $4,999........................................$2,050 ‘06 16’ Lund Classic Merc 40 hp 4 str, troll mtr, trailer .................................. $5,999........................................$2,570 ‘00 16’ Forester pontoon trailer cover Suz 9.9hp 4 str................................... $7,999........................................$1,804 ‘02 16’ Smokercraft stinger tiller Merc 40 4 str, trailer .................................. $8,499........................................$2,305 ‘16 Alumacraft 145 Escape trailer Yamaha 25 hp four stroke......................... $9,490........................................$1,640 ‘05 21’ Sun Tracker fishin barge Mercury 40 hp four stroke .......................... $10,599......................................$1,840 ‘17 21 Bennington SLX upgrade features Yamaha50 hp high thrust............... $24,999......................................$2,432 USED MOTORS 9 DIFFERENT MODELS ‘98 Johnson 8 hp four stroke tiller ................................................................ $1,199........................................$302 ‘02 Yamaha 9.9 elec start ............................................................................. $1,199........................................$376 ‘14 Suzuki 30 hp for stroke tiller ................................................................... $3,800........................................$510 ‘14 Mercury 30 hp for stroke power trim ...................................................... $4,999........................................$780 ‘16 Mercury 90 hp four stroke 25”................................................................ $9,200........................................$1,410 ‘14 Mercury 200 hp opti 17 hours use .......................................................... $13,499......................................$2,310 NEW CRUISE, FISH N CRUISE PONTOON 25 Different Models.................... SALE .................... SAVINGS ......PAYMENT 16’ Sunchaser Merc25 hp four stroke FISH OR CRUISE ................................. $14,999***** ........ $4,580..........$166* 18’ Sylvan Mercury 25 hp four stroke FISH OR CRUISE ................................. $17,999***** ........ $7,410..........$174** 20’ Sunchaser Mercury 40 hp four stroke CRUISE......................................... $17,999***** ........ $5,440..........$174** 20’ Sylvan Mercury 40 hp four stroke FISH OR CRUISE ................................. $19,999***** ........ $5,240..........$192** 22’ Sylvan LZ Mercury 4stroke FISH OR CRUISE ........................................... $23,999***** ........ $6,604..........$224** TRI TOON HEADQURTERS 9 Different Models NEW.................................... SALE .................... SAVINGS ......PAYMENT 20’ StarCraft EX cruise Mercury 115 hp four stroke ...................................... $32,999***** ........ $6,160..........$272*** 20’ Sylvan cruise Mercury 115 hp four stroke............................................... $33,999***** ........ $6,217..........$281*** 24’ StarCraft SLS 3 Mercury 150 hp four stroke............................................ $43,999***** ........ $7,401..........$357*** 25’ StarCraft Mercury 200 DTS four stroke super upscale............................. $53,999***** ........ $8,931..........$435*** NEW ALUMINUM FISH, TILLER, SIDE CONSOLE, WALK THRU 21 Different Models....... SALE .................... SAVINGS ......PAYMENT 14’ Smokercraft angler tiller Merc 25 4 str locator trailer .............................. $10,999***** ........ $5,746..........$124* 16’ Smokercraft angler tiller XL Merc 40 4 str locator ................................... $13,999***** ........ $6,786..........$140* 16’ Smokercraft angler side Merc40 4 str locator trailer ............................... $14,499***** ........ $5,786..........$142* 16’ Starweld stealth side Merc 40 4 str troll, locator trailer ........................... $17,999***** ........ $7,786..........$174** 17’ Starweld dual walk thru Merc 115 4 str locator, troll, trailer .................... $26,499***** ........ $7,230..........$222** 18’ Starweld pro walk thru Merc 115 4 str locator troll, trailer....................... $27,999***** ........ $8,575..........$222** 20’ Starweld pro walk thru Merc 175 4 str gps, troll trailer............................ $39,999***** ........ $8,866..........$326*** NEW FIBERGLASS BOATS 7 Different Models ............................................ SALE .................... SAVINGS ......PAYMENT 17’ StarCraft sport Mercury 115 four stroke trailer........................................ $26,999***** ........ $6,293..........$223*** 19’ StarCraft deck boat Merc 150 four stroke trailer ..................................... $34,999***** ........ $5,271..........$295*** 20’ Larson sport boat Merc 220 hp I/O trailer................................................ $39,999***** ........ $9,271..........$319***

IN MINONG SINCE 1951 304 Bus Hwy 53 Minong WI 54859 telephone 715-466-2272

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-5:00pm, Sat. 8:30-4, Sun. 11-2

www.linkrecreational.com | shop 24/7 2

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

* OAC 10% down plus tax title and license 120 months 6.74% ** OAC 10% down plus tax title and license 144 months 6.74% *** OAC 10% down plus tax title and license 180 months 6.75% ***** $1000 instant savings reflected in sales price

PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE 2019 WISCONSIN SPORT SHOW The Leader-Telegram is proud to be the lead sponsor of the 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show. This tenth annual family event features outdoor sport and recreation businesses from across the United States and Canada.

The 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show Presented by the Leader-Telegram will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 15-17, 2019 at the Chippewa Valley Expo Center located at 5150 Old Mill Plaza Drive, Eau Claire, just off the North Crossing. Event hours are 3 PM to 8 PM on Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM on Saturday, and 9 AM to 4 PM on Sunday. Event favorites are also returning this year, such as: hunting and fishing Duluth/ Superior seminars, hunting dog demonstrations, over 150 exhibitor booths, various outdoor retail products for sale, boats, ATVs, docks and lifts, Canadian resorts 53 and lodges, and various outdoor businesses all under one roof! Mpls./ St. Paul

Mpls./ St. Paul

Wausau

90 12 and older is $7 in advance Admission, one day general admission forEau ages Claire or $9 at the door. Advanced tickets available at ChippewaGreen Valley Mega CO-OP! Bay and Travel Stop stores and Rice Lake and Eau Claire Menards stores or 90 online at www.wisportshow.com. LaCrosse 94 94

Madison

Chicago.........................320 Milwaukee....................250 Madison........................180 LaCrosse........................ 90 Green Bay.....................190 Wausau.........................100 MPLS/St. Paul................ 90 Duluth/Superior........... 150

Duluth/ Superior

Wausau

Eau Claire Green Bay

LaCrosse

Milwaukee

Madison

Milwaukee

Chicago

We finance

HUNTING LAND. We also do• Home Loans • Hobby Farms • Construction Loans • Manufactured Homes • Purchase Rehab Loans • Long Term Fixed Rates

Chris Allen, Lending Officer, NMLS #524274 (715) 688-6333 | Chris.Allen@compeer.com

Terry Lambert, Lending Officer, NMLS #996175 (715) 236-5222 | Terry.Lambert@compeer.com

COMPEER.COM

Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

2019 WISCONSIN SPORT SHOW PRESENTATION STAGE SCHEDULE 4

Friday, March 15

Saturday, March 16 (cont.)

5pm • Cartrell Cooper

4pm • Matt Steffen

6pm • Lee Haasch

5pm • Scott Roepke

Action Dog Association Nose Sport Game

Haasch Guide Service Deep Water Trolling Tactics for Lake Michigan Salmon and Trout

7pm • Jeff Latour

Elk River Kennels How To Build Your Gun Dog

Saturday, March 16

Rainydaze Spring Walleye River Techniques WI Department of Natural Resources Elk in Wisconsin - Restoring a Native Species

Sunday, March 17 10am • Jake Holsclaw

WI Department of Natural Resources Boating and Fishing Safety

11am • Lee Haasch

11am • Glenn Vinton

Noon • John Andrew

Noon • Jeff Latour

1pm • Mike Gate

1pm • Ace Sommerfeld

2pm • Lynn Niklasch

2pm • Mark Harsch

Haasch Guide Service Lake Michigan Salmon and Trout World Record Holder, The Angler’s Choice Guide Service Jumbo Perch and Crappie Sunset Cove Resort Bass Fishing

Your Fishin’ Pal Guide Service Snap Jigging for Green Bay Walleyes

Backwater Custom Tackle Riggin and Rappin

Elk River Kennels How To Build Your Gun Dog First WI Chapter of Muskies, Inc. Making Muskies your Priority

S&M Tracking, Bloodhound Tracking Services Bloodhound Tracking

3pm • Ace Sommerfeld First WI Chapter of Muskies, Inc. Making Muskies your Priority

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

ONLY

$7!

ADVANCED, DISCOUNT TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE! One Day Admission: $7 advance tickets (ages 12 and older). Children 11 and younger are free. Through Friday, March 15th, advanced tickets are available at all Chippewa Valley Mega Co-op and Travel Stop locations or online at www.wisportshow. com. One day tickets can also be purchased at the door for $9.

FRIDAY AT 5PM

The Fastest Slip Bobber Set Up On The Market MADE IN THE USA

The Original Slip Lock Bobber

Smart Stop Micro Bobber Stop

cartrell cooper

The Lighted Slip Lock Bobber

Clearly Outdoors Eau Claire, WI

Action Dog Association

clearlyoutdoors.com

715-514-1660

info@clearlyoutdoors.com

849811 3-11-18

Menomonie

Rice Lake

Hudson

(715) 232-8590

(715) 234-8174

(715) 690-2415

Have you ever lost your keys? How about your cellphone, wallet, glasses and TV remote? Right - who hasn’t? Want to build a bond with your dog and show off to family or friends? With the Action Dog Association game we can teach your dog to do exactly that. Action Dog is a game where you utilize your dog’s natural instinct of scent to find your lost or misplaced items. Action Dog created a specific scent for each item that is taught one at a time.

NOSE SPORT GAME Your Boating and Powersports Destination!

Outdoor Power Equipment Sales & Service

1307 122nd St. • Chippewa Falls, WI

715-874-6363

M-F88am-5:30 am-6 pm, Sat. 8 8am-2 am-2 pm M-F pm, Sat. pm

849746 • 3-11-18

www.uniontrailer.com

Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

FRIDAY AT 6PM SATURDAY AT 11AM

JOHN’S ELGIN MARKET

Assorted snack sticks, jerky and venison sausage

847-741-6374 Visit our website at

johnselginmarket.com WWW.CBSDNL.COM

lee haasch

(715) 568-4755

Haasch Guide Service

1012 Martin Rd | Bloomer, WI 54724

Lake Michigan’s waters can serve up conditions that are less than ideal for salmon and trout fishing. Tips on how to overcome a variety of conditions to put more kings in your cooler!

LAKE MICHIGAN SALMON & TROUT: TIPS FOR CLEAR WATER TROLLING

715-634-7725 • • • •

Sheds • Garages Cabins • Gazebos Playhouse • Poly Furniture Hickory Furniture

Minaki, Ontario, Canada 1-800-387-3577 www.bignorthlodge.com bignorthlodge@kmts.ca

Fish the Winnipeg River system from beautiful Gun Lake! Walleye, Northern, Muskie, Small Mouth Bass. Experience unbelievable fly-in fishing at our “Trophy Waters” Roger Lake and Long Lake Outposts.

849633 • 3-11-18

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

www.northwoodoutdoor.com

S & M Tracking

FRIDAY AT 7PM SUNDAY AT NOON

ROLLY’S CUSTOM ROD 2280 Lake Shore Mosinee, WI

Mark Harsch • 715-559-0671 Specializing in deer recovery “The sooner you call, the better chance”

715-693-5734 849876 • 3-11-18

STOP BY OUR BOOTH AND TASTE OUR Charters Available Great Lakes & Bay of Green Bay

GOURMET FARMS OF COLORADO

DIP MIXES NO SALT, NO MSG AND GLUTEN-FREE

Capt. Lynn Niklasch 262-370-6771 ﬁshinpal.com

849613 3-11-18

jeff latour Elk River Kennels

4909 Sportsman Dr Eau Claire

715.832.4548

A great overview of the steps needed to build a gun dog. The program starts with the puppy stage and takes you through the adult, finished gun dog. Three dogs of different ages will be used to demonstrate each stage of development.

HOW TO BUILD YOUR GUN DOG

849829 • 3-11-18

Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

SATURDAY AT NOON

john andrews

Need a Fishing Buddy?

FindAFishingBuddy.com Members in all 50 states

Musky Madness Baits

Maker of Trophy Lures. Home of the Globe Baits.

Tom Riedel Eau Claire, WI 715-834-0286

849815_3-11-18

World Record Holder, The Angler’s Choice Guide Service John will be talking about jumbo perch fishing and summertime suspended crappies. John will discuss using the underwater camera to help locate the crappie and jumbo perch and using artificial lures - not just live minnows, will be reviewed. John will illustrate during this seminar that jumbo perch and crappies are easy to catch during all open water periods.

JUMBO PERCH AND CRAPPIE

A MUST SEE SEMINAR! 8

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

Mega! CO-OP Member Owned Cooperative Since 1935 By Presenting Your CO-OP Membership Card at Mega! CO-OP Holiday & Travel Stop Locations, You May Receive: · Save 5¢ per gallon on gas by paying with cash or check · Member-only savings on products or services during promotional periods · Entertainment discounts for theme parks, local events, & more Your purchases as a member stay within the community & allow us to give back by providing well-maintained stores, jobs & community giving!

Learn More: www.megacoop.com/member-information

849058 3-11-18

FRIDAY AT 6PM SUNDAY AT 10AM

FREE Vacation Guide! 800-724-2992 PLEASE VISIT US IN BOOTH 212

www.haywardlakes.com Hayward, WI

Muskies, Inc. is an Active, ServiceOriented, 501(c) (3) Non-Profit Organization for men, women and children with the single focus of improving the sport of Muskie fishing everywhere through our programs of Fisheries, Research, andYouth.

Please visit the booth of the local chapter, for more information. The Musky Clubs Alliance of Wisconsin boat will be present for viewing and raffle tickets will be available.

The Only Resort on Calm Lake Just 65 miles from International Falls border crossing www.indiaonta.com 608.778.4481 - Winter/807.947.2581 - Summer

mike gate Sunset Cove Resort Mike Gate grew up on Lake of the Woods in Canada and began his Fish Guiding career at the young age of 13. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a trained Commercial Float Plane Pilot since 1993. On his days off or evenings he continues to guide fishermen. In 2012, Mike and his wife Erin purchased a fishing resort on Lake of the Woods in Nestor Falls, ON Canada. Mike has been lucky enough to join the Pro-Staff of Outdoor Bound TV with host Kurt Walbeck and you may have also seen his face in a few issues of InFisherman Magazine.

BASS FISHING

Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

SATURDAY AT 2PM

Woodcraft Lures

lynn niklasch

CYGNET LAKE CAMP

Your Fishin Pal Guide Service Lynn will be teaching when and where to catch walleyes on Green Bay using the Snap Jigging technique. Lure selection and proper equipment will also be discussed.

SNAP JIGGING FOR GREEN BAY WALLEYES

Minaki, Ontario, Canada USA: 715-271-2043 CA: 807-224-3213

Maker of soft lures Independence, WI www.woodcraftsandlures.com

Experience the best of Lake Superior Charter Fishing

Powered by more than 77 years of innovative research and development, Beltone hearing solutions are equipped with the latest technology and designed to fit just about any lifestyle and hearing loss.

N&S Great Lakes Fishing

Take the first step toward better hearing

763-245-2585

715-834-7111

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

n-sgreatlakesfishing.com

849320 • 3-11-18

The Chippewa Valley’s Exterior Lighting Professionals We provide professional grade landscape lighting systems to provide security and elegant illumination of your home, business, landscape, walkways, lake home or dock.

SATURDAY AT 3PM SUNDAY AT 1PM

GO ATHLETIC APPAREL MADE IN THE USA GOATHLETIC APPAREL.COM

715-878-4366 www.thomasleighdecorators.com

715-892-3020

John Andrew

• Licensed and Insured • 45 Years’ Fishing Experience • 2 Fresh Water Fishing World Records and 2 Outstanding Angling Achievement Awards documented at the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame 850087 in Hayward, WI 3-11-18 NO FISH . . . NO PAY! (GUARANTEED)

Clint & Amy Wittlief www.timberedgecamps.com Timberedgecamps@gmail.com Sioux Lookout Ontario 807-737-2099 summer 507-367-2519 winter 850092 3-11-18 Your catch of a lifetime awaits!

ace sommerfeld First WI Chapter of Muskies, Inc. It’s never too early to start planning for muskies. If you are looking for ideas on how to get started, need tips to increase your success or you enjoy pictures of big fish be sure to catch Ace Sommerfeld’s presentation “Make Muskies Your Top Priority in 2019.” You’ll get a little bit of everything from getting started with proper equipment, to picking lures that fit your needs. Ace will walk you through a cast from start to finish. The importance of choosing when to fish will also be covered.

Ace is quick to point out how his partners got him started on the right foot 10 years when he decided to make muskies his top priority. Since then he has achieved the status of Master Angler by releasing nearly 350 muskies. He is a regular contributor to MUSKY HUNTER and has been a Field Editor with MUSKIE since 2012. “Successful musky fishing is a long-term commitment,” he said. “Bring your questions and comments, I thrive on audience participation.”

MAKE MUSKIES YOUR TOP PRIORITY FOR 2018!

Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

JOIN US MARCH 15, 16 & 17 AT THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY EXPO CENTER AT OLD MILL PLAZA A & D Docks

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Sport Rider

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Schleefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bait Shop

Bass Tracker Boat Center

Petting Zoo

Air Tec 174

236

234

Beach King Docks

169

242

237

Presentation Stage

195

Link Recreation

Air Tec 111

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Air Tec

Lake County Marina

General Coin

Northwoods Industries

RESTROOMS

Marine Plus

Concessions

Marine Plus

102 101

RESTROOMS

Wissota Dock Marine Plus Exit / Enter

EXHIBITOR LIST 12

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

TSB Lakefront Restoration ��101-104 LeafFilter ��105 Factory Motor Parts ��106 Trappers Point Camp ��107 Real Time Pain Relief ��108 Hidden Hill Lodge ��109 Rolly’s Rods ��110 Northern Woodsman ��111 Northern Woodsman ��112 Deer Ridge Resort ��113 Tie Boss ��114 Asher Lasting Exteriors ��115-117 TSB Lakefront Restoration ��118 Hillside Fabricating ��119 ANJ Charter Fishing ��120 White Iron Beach Resort ��121 Clearly Outdoors ��122 Backwater Custom Tackle ��123-124 Mosquito Hunters ��125 WestConsin Credit Union ��126 Whitetail Properties ��127 Your Fishin’ Pal ��128 Island Point Lodge ��129 Action Dog Association ��130 Fletcher Lake Lodge ��131 Gourmet Farms/Dips Plus ��132 Duncan Creek Wood Creations ��133 T Max Attractants ��134 Reed’s Custom Food Plots ��135 Reed’s Custom Food Plots ��136 5 Star Marketing ��137 Pakuni Lodge ��138 Wut-A-Nut ��139 Woods and Water Real Estate ��140 Fleet Farm ��141 Haasch Guide Service ��142 Outdoor Bound TV ��143 Sunset Cove Resort ��144 Duncan Creek Kennels ��145 Watersmeet Chamber ��146 Smooth Gator ��147 Beltone ��148 D and D Farm Supply ��149 D and D Farm Supply ��150 Musky Madness Baits ��151 Branch’s Seine River Lodge ��152 Big North Lodge ��153 S & M Tracking ��154 Turner Industries ��155 Blue Ribbon Bait & Tackle ��156 Blue Ribbon Bait & Tackle ��157 Blue Ribbon Bait & Tackle ��158 Mike’s Hunting Adventures ��159 Fishing Buddy ��160

TBA ��161 Lake Hallie Roundabout Boats ��162 Boat2Trailer ��163 Gale Marine LLC ��164-166 Invasion Jigs ��167 Wisconsin Campground Association ��169 Pierre, SD ��170 Indiaonta Resort ��172 Rainydaze Guide Service ��174 Edenwood Ranch and Preserve ��175 Elk River Kennels ��176-177 KD Outdoors ��178 KD Outdoors ��179 Chuck Kalmon ��180 Artisans In ��181 Weiss Realty ��182 Ace Auto Mall ��183 CM Skullies ��184 Bills and Gills Guide Service ��185 US Army Recruiting ��186 Arrowhead Resort & Motel ��187 The Angler’s Choice ��188 Marc-On Shooting ��189 Midwest Manufacturing ��190 Wild Woods Taxidermy �� 191/192 Marawood Construction ��193 Ace Hardware ��194 Mike’s Antler Art ��195 Westgate Sportsman’s Club ��196 Yukon Trails Resort ��197 Old Home Log Furniture ��198 Old Home Log Furniture ��199 Old Home Log Furniture ��200 Woodcraft Lures ��201 Northwoods Bear ��202 Tarp Buddy ��203 N & S Great Lakes Fishing ��204 TBA ��205 TBA ��206 Chasin’ Eyes Guide Service ��207 Louisiana Purchase Ran ��208 Timber Edge Camps ��209 Xtreme Tree Shark ��210 Midwest Outdoor Resorts ��211 Hayward Lakes VCB ��212 KayAir & Outposts ��213 Washburn County Tourism Assn ��214 Windy Pine Cottages ��215 TBA ��216 Gander Outdoors / Camping World ��217 Gander Outdoors / Camping World ��218 Dreamcatcher Bucktails /

Toothtamer Rods �� 219/220 John’s Elgin Market ��221 Wigwam Resort ��222 Gander Outdoors / Camping World ��223 Gander Outdoors / Camping World ��224 Go Athletic Apparel ��225 Go Athletic Apparel ��226 Day’s Power Sports ��227 TBA ��228 TBA ��229 Union Trailer ��230-232 Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin ��233 Bath Fitter ��234 Cygnet Lake Camp ��235 Arrow Outdoors ��236 Quality Seamless Gutters ��237 Jaws II ��238 Come by Chance Resort ��239 Northwood Power ��240 Northwood Power ��241 White Tail Gifts ��242 White Tail Gifts ��243 Next Energy Solution ��301 WI GSPR ��302 First Choice Computer Recycling ��400 Compeer Financial ��401 WI Dept of Natural Resources ��402 Mosquito Squad ��403 First WI Chapter Muskies Inc ��404 First WI Chapter Muskies Inc ��405 Thrive ��406 Thomas Leigh ��407 Polytek ��408 TBA ��409 All Energy Solar ��410 Republican Party of EC County ��411 Airtec �� bulk Poolman �� bulk Beach King Docks �� bulk Bass Tracker �� bulk A & D �� bulk Lake Country Marina �� bulk Wissota Dock �� bulk Schleef’s Bait Shop �� bulk Link Rec �� bulk Sport Rider �� bulk General Coin �� bulk Marine Plus �� bulk Northwood Outdoors ��bulk

Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

SATURDAY AT 4PM

TTarp

Buddy® Made in USA

World’s Strongest Fastener • No more ripped out grommets! • Lifetime guarantee • Works with: plastic sheeting, tarps, canvas, screen material

Tarpbuddy.com 815-668-2600

www.addocks.com Serving Northern Wisconsin “Over 45 Years of combined sales and service.” New & Used Boat Docks and Lifts Installation, Removal and Repair

customerservice@tarpbuddy.com If you use tarps, you NEED Tarp Buddy® 849879 3-11-18

matt steffen

849628_3-11-18

Your Lowe Boat & Mercury Motor Dealer

SPRING WALLEYE RIVER TECHNIQUES 14

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

V IC

E LL

•

Matt will present information that introduces different ways to catch walleye in the early spring through the use of plastics, 3-way trolling stick baits, pitching blade baits, and boat control.

ARROW

OUTDOORS, LLC

IN EYE AS

Captain Matt is originally from Mondovi,WI, and is currently a transplant to the International Falls, MN area. He has fished the prestigious Cabela’s National Walleye Tour as a co-angler and a pro for 3 years while traveling all over the country to new bodies of water. He is currently a guide full time on beautiful Rainy Lake, He enjoys spending his days in the boat teaching kids and adults new techniques to take home with them and try on their favorite fisheries.

Rainydaze Guide Service

G UID

CAPTAIN JOE KNOWLES

BUTCH NOLL

715.579.6930 arrowoutdoorsec@gmail.com

chasineyesguideservice.com 920-716-3696 Fully Licensed & Insured Custom Packages

VISIT OUR BOOTH! (800) 924-0022 westconsincu.org

TIRED OF BEING TIRED? Find out how thousands learned to stop simply surviving and are now THRIVING!

SATURDAY AT 5PM

THRIVE BY LeVel THE THRIVE EXPERIENCE – 3 SIMPLE STEPS EVERY DAY: 1 LIFESTYLE CAPSULES 2 SHAKE MIX 3 DFT PRODUCT

> Weight Management+ > Cognitive Performance+ > Digestive & Immune Support+ > Healthy Joint Function+ > Lean Muscle Support+ > Calms General Discomfort+ > Age Defying & Antioxidant Support+ > Mental Acuity > Supports Appetite Management > Derma Fusion Technology > Supports Energy & Circulation > Increased Bioavailability

Nicole & Brent Amble

Le-Vel Independent Brand Promoter 715-456-3829 | Nicoleamble@gmail.com | nicoleamble.thrive123.com

scott roepke WI Department of Natural Resources

101 Banks St. Chetek, WI 54728 Ph: 715-924-3318 Fax: 715-924-2907 www.lakecountrymarina.com We specialize in: • Montego Bay Pontoons, TMC Pontoons & MirroCraft Boats • ShoreMaster/Shoreline Docks & Lifts • Pelican Kayaks & Paddleboards • The Only Lakeside Marina on the Chetek Chain of Lakes • Pontoon and Boat Rentals (daily & weekly)

Travis Bottolfson N13981 Flambeau Ave. PO Box 87, Fifield, 54524

(715) 557-1608 • (715) 762-5550 WWW.WILDWOODSTAXIDERMY.BIZ email: wildwoods2@gmail.com

849711_3-11-18

T��’� n� �la��

HOME

Scott Roepke is a wildlife biologist for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Scott is stationed out of Black River Falls and covers Jackson and Clark Counties. Scott’s presentation will cover the history of elk in WI, past and current reintroduction efforts, and current management efforts.

ELK IN WISCONSIN:

RESTORING A NATIVE SPECIES USING U.S. AND IMPORTED PARTS

4 5 FREE!

BUY

WINDOWS OR DOORS AND GET THE

2020

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Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

Shot by Becky Fenske of Rice Lake, WI 604 Pounds, Field Dressed

SUNDAY AT 10AM

825920 3-12-17

Northwoods Bear Products (608) 341-8987

Lake of the Woods Open year round

*Special pricing at the WI Sports Show!

WI Department of Natural Resources Jake is the Recreation Warden for a 9 county area including Eau Claire, Chippewa, Clark, Dunn, Marathon, Pierce, Portage, St Croix, and Wood counties. Recreation Wardens specialize in recreational safety enforcement, officer training and specialized activities including boat, ATV, snowmobile, hunting incident investigations, and search/rescue efforts. Jake will be hosting an interaction seminar which is great for kids as he will have a canoe and life jackets available for demonstrations. This is a good family seminar before the spring/summer boating season.

BOATING SAFETY 16

2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

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Bills & Gills Guide Service Experience The Difference... Size Does Matter! Fishing & Waterfowl Hunting in Northeast Wisconsin Captain Jim Klein 920-680-7660 â&#x20AC;˘ Green Bay, WI Email: billsandgills@gmail.com â&#x20AC;˘ billsandgillsguideservice.com

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glenn vinton Action Dog Association

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Backwater Custom Tackle Glenn will be sharing tips and techniques to use when live bait rigging or when using jigging rap style baits. Intended to put more fish in your boat!

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Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

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mark harsch & tory freed S&M Tracking, Bloodhound Tracking Services Mark Harsch and his dogs Stella and Mako have been tracking deer for five years and have found 84 deer.

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They belong to the United Blood Trackers National organization and reside just north of Eau Claire, Wisconsin. They will track within 100 miles of the Chippewa Valley.

Mark and Tory will be discussing the benefits and effectiveness of using a trained bloodhound to track prey after it has been shot and the trail has been lost to the human hunter.

Saving GSPs from shelters, humane societies, and owner surrenders.

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2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

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2019 Wisconsin Sport Show | March 10, 2019 | Leader-Telegram

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Full day of guided fishing, during the open water season for two people from The Angler’s Choice Guide Service - $335.00 Value

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One Day Pontoon Rental from Lake Country Marina - $150.00 Value Two Treatment Package from Mosquito Hunters - $250.00 Value

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Tundra Cooler (3) from Compeer Financial - $51.00 Value (3)

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1 bass rod up to $150 from Tooth Tamer Rods, Big Game Tackle, and Dreamcatcher Bucktails 1 walleye rod up to $120 from Tooth Tamer Rods, Big Game Tackle, and Dreamcatcher Bucktails - $120.00 Value

2 Big Game Tackle baits up to $60 from Tooth Tamer Rods, Big Game Tackle, and Dreamcatcher Bucktails - $60.00 Value 3 Dreamcatcher Bucktail up to $60 from Tooth Tamer Rods, Big Game Tackle, and Dreamcatcher Bucktails - $60.00 Value

• • •

Sweatshirt, Tshirt and Carry Bag from WI German Shorthair Pointer Rescue - $50.00 Value Plastic fishing baits from Woodcraft Lures - $100.00 Value

Scheels Gift Card from Woods and Water Realty - $50.00 Value

Half Day Green Bayfishing trip from Your Fishin’ Pal Guide Service - $325.00 Value

One weekend (3 days free) golf cart usage/rental from Yukon Trails - $180.00 Value Gift Certificate from Marc-On Shooting - $150.00 Value

Hoodie from Hidden Hills Lodge - $50.00 Value $15 memberships from Action Dog - $100.00 Value

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Pro Cookies & Cream Bar, Activate Pina Colada, Black Pepper & Sea Salt Bites from Thrive - $122.00 Value

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1/2 day walleye trip for 2 from Bills N Gills - $450.00 Value Gift Card from Fleet Farm -

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Poly Andirondack Chair from Northwood Industries $100.00 Value

One Week Stay in 2 Bedroom Cabin from White Iron Beach Resort - $1,126.00 Value

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Leader-Telegram | March 10, 2019 | 2019 Wisconsin Sport Show

Note: Some information my be subject to change. Consult the hunting/fishing regulation pamphlet(s) or dnr.wi.gov before going hunting/fishing.

HUNTING/TRAPPING

Large Game

Deer Archery & Crossbow: Sept. 15-Jan. 5, 2020 Youth deer hunt: Oct. 5-6 Deer Gun hunt for hunters with disabilities:* Oct. 5-13 Deer Gun: Nov. 23-Dec. 1 Deer Muzzleloader: Dec. 2-11 Statewide antlerless deer hunt: Dec. 12-15 * This is not a statewide season. Clam Lake Elk Management Zone

Elk Archery, crossbow, firearm Oct. 12–Nov. 10; Dec. 12 - 20 *Licenses awarded through a drawing only. Bear

Zone C where dogs are not permitted: Sept. 4–Oct. 8 • with aid of bait and all other legal methods not using dogs All other zones where dogs are permitted: Sept. 4–10 • with aid of dogs only Sept. 11–Oct. 1 • with aid of dogs, bait and all other legal methods Oct. 2–8 • with aid of bait and with all other legal methods not using dogs

Youth turkey hunt: April 13-14

Wild turkey

Open Turkey Hunt, Spring: Period A, April 17-23; Period B, April 24-30; Period C, May 1-7; Period D, May 8-14; Period E, May 15-21; Period F, May 22-28; Fall: Zones 1-5, Sept. 14-Jan. 5, 2020; Zones 6 & 7, Sept. 14–Nov. 22

Other game birds

Pheasant: Statewide, Oct. 19 (9 a.m.)-Jan. 5, 2020 Bobwhite quail: Statewide, Oct. 19 (9 a.m.)-Dec. 11. Sharp-tailed grouse: Season under review. Ruffed grouse: Zone A, Sept. 14-Jan. 31, 2020; Zone B, Oct. 19-Dec. 8. Hungarian partridge: Statewide (closed in Clark, Marathon and

Taylor counties), Oct. 19 (9 a.m.)-Jan. 5, 2020.

Crow: Statewide, Sept. 14 - Nov. 21; Jan. 26-March 20, 2020. Woodcock: Dates will be established in mid-April. Mourning dove: Dates will be established in mid-April.

Waterfowl

Small game Cottontail rabbit: Northern zone: Sept. 14-Feb. 29, 2020; Southern zone: Oct. 19 (9 a.m.)-Feb. 29, 2020 Statewide Sept. 14-Jan. 31, 2020 Squirrels (gray & fox):

Other furbearers

Coyote: Hunting, continuous open season; Trapping, Oct. 09-Feb. 15, 2020. Fox, red & gray: Hunting & trapping, Oct. 09-Feb. 15, 2020. Beaver: Trapping only, Zone A (Northwest), Nov. 2-April 30, 2020; Zone B (Northeast), Nov. 2-April 30, 2020; Zone C (South), Nov. 2-March 31, 2020; Zone D (Mississippi Rive), Day after duck season closes to March 15, 2020. Mink & muskrat: Trapping only, statewide, Oct. 27-March 8, 2020; Mississippi River zone Nov. 11**-March 8, 2020, opens day after duck season closes or Nov. 11, whichever occurs first.

Bobcat: Hunting and trapping - permits required, Period 1, Oct. 09-Dec. 25; Period 2, Dec. 26-Jan. 31, 2020. Fisher: Trapping only, permits required, various zones, Oct. 09-Jan. 5, 2020. Otter: Trapping only, permits required, North zone, Nov. 2-April 30, 2020; South zone, Nov. 2-March 31, 2020. Raccoon: Hunting and trapping, resident, Oct. 09-Feb. 15, 2020; Nonresident, Nov. 2-Feb. 15, 2020. Woodchuck, opossum, skunk, weasel and snowshoe hare: No season limits, bag limits, size limits or possession limits, but a license is required.

FISHING (dates inclusive) Large & smallmouth bass Southern zone

Early inland trout (catch and release)

May 25-Nov. 30

May 4 (5 a.m.)-Oct. 15

May 4-March 1, 2020

Jan. 5 (5 a.m.)-May 3

Musky - Northern zone

General inland trout

Musky - Southern zone

General inland fishing

Northern pike

Largemouth bass Northern zone

May 4-Dec. 31

May 4-March 1, 2020

Walleye

Smallmouth bass Northern zone, catch and release

June 15-March 1, 2020

PROTECTED SPECIES

May 4-June 14

Early Canada goose season: Dates will be established in mid-April. (Early Teal and regular waterfowl seasons TBD.)

May 4-March 1, 2020

Lake sturgeon

Sept. 7-Sept. 30 Free fishing weekends

Smallmouth bass Northern zone harvest

June 1-2, 2019 (summer) Jan. 18-19, 2020 (winter)

Hunting protected species—such as badger, jackrabbit, moose and flying squirrel—is prohibited. See the 2018 Small Game Regulations for more details.

Getting Out

Spring 2019

Leader-Telegram

Autumn is a colorful time, accented by the music of a small, noisy group of Canada geese.

Photo by Bill Thornley

Cont. from page 9

In the back country the bull elk begins to bugle and the whitetail buck rubs his antlers, removing the velvet from them. By the end of September the geese are flying over a rapidly changing landscape. The trees are on fire with color, and on the forest floor ferns and underbrush begin to turn brown, die, and crumble. These are the days of the harvest. Farmer’s fields are filled withgolden stalks of corn, and pumpkins, acorn squash, zucchini, and decorative Indian corn are loaded onto wagons next to honor-system collection cans. A hot mug of apple cider sprinkled with cinnamon and a slice of homemade pumpkin pie is a northern treat few can pass up in late September.

OCTOBER

arrives in a wash of color. This is Mother Nature’s finest hour, and she paints the landscape with a golden brush. The autumn leaves are in full color, numerous shades of red, orange, and yellow. And Mother Nature’s children are busy. A squirrel stores a winter stash of acorns and seeds. Flocks of birds gather, swirling overhead as they prepare to migrate. Frogs and turtles bury themselves into the mud and prepare for a long sleep. With a cold breath, Mother Nature coats the morning landscape with a first frost. Darkness covers the region earlier now, and fog rises from the rivers and ponds where the water is warmer than the air. Mushrooms form on the moist rocks and on the dark sides of shaded trees. Two types of autumn days bless Northwestern Wisconsin, and in October it is easiest to notice the change. In the blink of an eye the warm, colorful days of early autumn are gone. Those golden days are indeed fleeting, like a wisp of

Getting Out

woodsmoke disappearing into the night on the suddenly biting northern wind. A whitetail buck rises from his bed on the ridge, his back covered in frost. As he shakes himself the frost explodes into multi-colored crystals dancing on the first rays of the morning sun, and his hot breath lifts into the air in puffy white clouds as he moves cautiously into the shadows of the tamarack swamp.

NOVEMBER

brings with it the first signs of real winter. The trees, so colorful only a moment ago, are bare and gray. The sky is steel blue and the morning sun blazes orange, but there is no warmth to be found. At the larger lakes the gray waves look and feel cold, and the wind seems to howl a mournful sound as it blows relentlessly. In the bay a small muskrat nibbles on vegetation. Ringlets of ice have formed around the base of the bulrushes. Should the temperature fall a few degrees more during the next night or two, the bay and the entire lake will be covered by a layer of ice until spring. The late afternoon sky is a flat yellow as high clouds dilute the light. Even the sun looks cold. A duck hunter shivers in his blind as a small flock of northern mallards whistle past his bobbing decoys. The hunter’s old dog cocks his head toward the sky in anticipation, but the shotgun remains silent in the hunter’s lap – the birds are a bit too high. Out in the hills a deer hunter checks his tree stand, not far from the same trail the old buck used to enter the tamarack swamp. The hunter’s heart races as he finds a fresh rub line. Memories of past hunts flood over him, visions of bucks missed and bucks taken, of old friends hunted with and those no longer around

Spring 2019

to share the camaraderie of the hunting shack. Late November has that affect on a lot of people here.

DECEMBER

arrives along with the drifting Christmas snows, but in nature there is no celebration. Winter is a hard time. Small birds struggle to keep warm, searching for what few seeds might remain. Some animals hibernate, others migrate. Many remain and endure the wrath of winter. The landscape disappears under a blanket of snow, and the snow can tell Mother Nature’s stories. A wing pattern shows how a ruffed grouse exploded into flight when startled by a red fox passing too closely. Hoof prints joined by converging paw prints tell the story of a pack of wolves closing in on a deer – and the large red blood patch near the swamp tells how the encounter ended. As the winter winds blow, these tracks and signs are covered and the drama of life and death in the wild begins anew. December mornings are dark, and the sun struggles to rise by 7 a.m. Days are short, and the sun disappears by around 4:30 p.m. as darkness once again engulfs the land. At sunset a snowy owl glides silently through the timber, searching for a meal.

JANUARY

arrives, and the journey has come full circle. Nature is once again in the grips of winter, and every day of survival is a struggle. But the struggle continues, and life goes on. Spring will eventually come again to the wild North, and the ongoing drama that is life in the outdoors will begin once again.

Leader-Telegram

The afternoon breeze shifts from warm to downright hot, and in the thick forest the black bear is pestered by relentless flies and ticks which attach themselves to her ears, draining blood and growing plump. Nightfall arrives as the sun drops below the horizon and a single strip of intense orange remains in the sky. A great horned owl blurts out and breaks the silence, and in the deep forest a pair of eyes scan the now moonlit landscape. And unlucky rabbit screams in the darkness, then all is once again silent – the wolves will feed their pups tonight.

JULY

Summer days are fleeting. The morning sun warms the morning landscape and illuminates this spider web. Photo by Bill Thornley

brings more heat, and sometimes it seems relentless. But Mother Nature still serves up special treats, perhaps in the form of a beautiful red wild rose, maybe in the form on a wide-winged bald eagle catching a morning thermal and screaming across the sky. Baby ruffed grouse and wild turkeys follow their mothers singlefile across back roads. The outdoors begins to smell musty at times as humidity hangs in the air. Wild strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are in bloom, and the still-green blackberries hang heavy on the bushes, giving promise for a harvest yet to come in perhaps a month.

coming winter. In the twisted brush, an empty sparrow’s nest sits as a reminder of recently passed spring, the remains of two tiny egg shells littering its bottom. August melts away, and as it does the heat of summer begins to melt away with it. This is a month of transition, and summer is fading.

SEPTEMBER

HUNTING & FARMLAND PROPERTIES

Cont. on page 10

Is there anything more soothing to the hot, weary traveler than the sound of water rushing over rocks as it bubbles and flows? Even on the hottest summer day, water splashes on one’s face offering instant relief. The cascading water, coupled with the sound of leaves rustling in the soft wind, is an open invitation for an afternoon nap along the stream.

Along the river, change is also visible in the sugar maples as oranges and yellows and reds paint the leaves. Canada geese fly overhead in long v-shaped flocks as Mother Nature waves her hand and signals the change of seasons once again. A few nights ago it was too hot to sleep – now an extra blanket needs to be placed on the bed.

A tiny chipmunk, wide-eyed and perky, dashes across a forest opening and stops in a muddy indentation, unaware that it offers a perfect illustration of the diversity of Mother Nature’ children. The chipmunk, weighing only a few ounces, has paused smackdab in the middle of a hoof print left by a massive bull elk that wandered by about an hour earlier.

blows in on a hot breeze, but by the end of the month there could be snowflakes in the air. In the forest, the beaver busily lives up to her reputation, hurrying to build her lodge, five chattering kittens by her side. The water in her pond has grown stagnant in places, beaten by the summer sun, it’s surface covered by vegetation that begins to change from green to yellow.

These are the days of plenty, when deer get fat on nature’s bounty and their red coats shine against the backgrounds of green leaves and tall yellow prairie grasses.

AUGUST

brings more warm days. Bobcats, deer, and black bears hide from the heat in the darkness of the forest. Wildlife waits out the heat, emerging to feed in the cooler night hours. Blackberries hang heavy on their bushes, and wild birds eagerly eat them. Bears eat them also, starting to put on fat for the

Getting Out

Your Rural Property Specialists!

715.672.4444 Office@WeissChoice.com

www.WeissChoice.com Spring 2019

Leader-Telegram

The circle of life continues season to season. This baby robin will grow up in the wild Northland. Cont. from page 7

Wildflowers, from violets to marigolds, grow on the forest floor, which only weeks ago was encased in snow and ice. And already the spring winds are drying the landscape, sending clouds of dust into the air. One day it might be 80-degrees, two days later morning will dawn to frost-covered fields. May is truly an undecided month. Songbirds greet dawn with an explosion of sound. A tiny ruby-throated hummingbird races through the forest, stopping momentarily to perch upon a twig. All across the landscape, WESTCONSIN CREDIT UNION—EXPRESS LOAN®

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the buds of spring are bursting, fed by the spring rains and the warming of the sun. Turtles begin digging small holes to lay their eggs. On the northern prairies, early morning signals the incredible dances of mating sharp-tailed grouse. Trout swim against the fast moving water of swollen back country creeks. Elk, moose, and whitetailed bucks are already beginning to sprout velvet-covered antlers. Tiny leaves burst out of their buds, unfolding in the sunshine, the freshest, greenest color imaginable. Indeed, green is everywhere, from the top of the trees to the lush mosses and ferns that now cover the forest floor – perfect cover for new baby fawns, bear cubs, and fox pups.

JUNE

arrives, and already the freshness of spring is beginning to pass into summer. Although daylight might break cool, by mid-morning it can be humid. Spring, like autumn, is a fleeting time. It is a time when plants seem to grown before your eyes, from forest floor to corn field and back yard garden. And, of course, the first mosquitoes and flies begin to buzz and annoy.

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Getting Out Spring 2019

A delicate goldfinch bathes in an early morning puddle, as not far away a red-winged blackbird rocks back and forth atop a cattail. A raccoon washes a meal in a small stream before eating it. Afternoon might bring a rain shower, often followed by a brilliant, colorful rainbow. In an instant it is gone, but the landscape smells watery fresh. Evening brings more clouds and gusty winds. A storm is coming, and soon the sky unleashes and the first huge drops begin to fall. Thunder rumbles, and jagged lightning slices across the now dark and turbulent skies. But the rain is also soothing as it settles into an all-night soaker, and many northern residents drift off to sleep to the hypnotic sounds of rain hitting the roof. Summer is in full bloom, and the first 90-degree temperatures of the season arrive. At the lake, a great blue heron waits patiently, then drives his long beak into the water and emerges with a crayfish. A red-eyed, white-spotted loon proudly rides her chick aboard her back as she sails across a lake in early morning.

Leader-Telegram

Yet morning does come, and the chickadee breaks into a happy chirping song, despite the numbing chill. What makes the tiny bird so happy on such a cold day? Perhaps it is the feeling that it has survived another night and is privileged to live another day in the wild – one more chance to find berries, or perhaps steal seeds and lard from the feeder of a kindhearted resident of the North. In nature, life itself is reason to celebrate, and in the harsh winter, the celebration is day-to-day.

MARCH

Springtime dawns, and a pair of whitetail fawns explore their new world. Photo by Bill Thornley

.A bluejay puffs itself up against the cold as a noisy red squirrel chatters, its tail bobbing as it chews on a small piece of standing corn from a farmer’s field. A coal black raven sits high atop a tall oak, giving him a commanding view of all that passes below. He is hungry, having not found a meal in two days. A trio of whitetailed deer wander through a spruce swamp along a well-used trail – they also are returning from the corn field, their bellies filled and ready to spend the day as restful as possible. Energy is life in late winter, and these deer have used much of the fat reserves they entered the season with. Along the way they pass the carcass of one of their own, an old buck too used up by the rut to survive another hard winter. He laid down his heavy head last night, and closed his eyes for the final time. His days are over. Yet in his passing, the raven will find another meal and survive. So will the porcupine and the mouse who will soon consume his nutritious antlers, the coyote and the fisher who will dine on his flesh. In many ways, death is life in this place. As March progresses, the days are heavy and dark. The rains come, soaking the snow and forming a crust on the top, more hardship for the deer which will cut their legs, and the ruffed grouse which will no longer be able to burrow into the fluffy snow. Redpoles and grosbeaks shiver against the wind, their bodies weakened by a meager food supply. It is truly a nasty day. But as March ends, spring will finally begin to show itself. More rain softens the snow, and this time the temperatures are warm enough that it doesn’t freeze. The afternoon sun is starting to get a little heat now, and the days are noticeably longer. The end of winter is near.

APRIL

arrives and nature seems to welcome it. The bone-chilling times are past, and spring is not far behind. Geese return, and red-breasted robins begin showing up, seeking earth worms as the final clumps of dirty winter snows melt away. The

Getting Out

sun’s warmth is soothing, and the snow will not last long, nor will the honeycombed, black ice that remains on the lakes. A few good days of wind, and the water will be open once more. Nature’s pulse is starting to beat faster. New buds begin to form on the trees, and while night might still deliver a few inches of slushy snowfall, it quickly melts in the daytime as temperatures soar into the 60s. The frozen ground of morning quickly gives way to the mud of afternoon. New life is quick to show itself. A honking pair of Canada geese swim along on the open water, their necks bent low to the surface as they guard their precious half dozen balls of tiny, golden fluff – goslings born just a few days before. In the night shallows of lakes and rivers, spawning walleyes lay the eggs of a new generation. A ruffed grouse drums in the distance, and the smell of leaves burning carries on the wind. A scruffy snowshoe hair stills displays patches of white fur as it hops along. A beaver nibbles on the fresh bark of a small willow it just felled, and across the landscape flowers and grasses push their way through the soft soil, drawn to the life-giving rays of the sun.

MAY

brings chilly, dark nights and heavens ablaze with twinkling stars. Around the lake the sound of migrating ducks splashing in the shallows, peeper frogs in the grass and a solitary loon whistling mournfully combine to make a chorus of life. Cont. on page 8

Spring 2019

ily A Fam Since Park 964 1

Frankie Fun Park!

Jumping Pillow, Jump Shot, Mini Golf and Pedal Carts! $1 off OCC Mining Sluice w/band. Come for the day or buy with your stay!

Daily Ultimate Band: $15 All Stay Ultimate Band: $20

Get a stamp on your Frankie Fun Park Pass for every $5 you spend on wristbands fill your card and earn a FREE wristband. Adult day visitors $3, Kids are free at OCC! Buy one Ultimate Wristband/get one free slushie! Limit one coupon per person. Ex 10/1/19

OCC Features: Camp Store, Frog Hop Arcade, Leap Pad Outdoor Movie Theater, OCC Canteen Snack Bar, laundry room, seasonal sites and golf cart rentals. OCC Amenities: Themed weekends, free showers, free dump station, volleyball, gaga ball, 2 playgrounds, swimming, fishing and tubing! Enjoy your OCC Camping stay on W/E, full hook-up sites (pull-through and back-in), or in a cabin, RV or park model rentals!

Take advantage of our Frankie Friends Special: Stay 2 consecutive nights and get the 3rd half price on ALL sites! OR the Frankie Perks Special: Stay the holiday minimum of 3 nights and add a 4th night for half price on ALL sites!

14912 105th Ave. • Chippewa Falls,WI 715.723.6581 • oneilcr oneilcreek.com • office@oneilcr office@oneilcreek.com

Leader-Telegram

Mother Nature is a lady of many moods and continuously changing seasons. Sometimes she can be angry, harsh as a biting winter wind roaring across a northern clearing. She can be as fierce as a gray November lake, her waters boiling and screaming, with snow blowing sideways. Her moods quickly change. When her angry winds die down and quiet snowflakes fall, the land is quickly blanketed in a soft whiteness.

In nature, the death of one can mean life for another. Such is the case with this winter-killed deer and the bald eagle that claims it.

JANUARY

brings a new year and normally more snow and cold. If the snow arrives early and deep, even the largest buck will struggle. The black bear has long since retreated to a den to sit out winter in a kind of pseudohibernation. On the lakes the onset of intense cold can make the ice thicken and shift, producing thunderous noises. Similar sounds occur in the spring as the ice begins to soften and pop, like a sleeping giant waking. A weasel scampers across a frozen pond, his fur as white as the snow, only the black tip of his tail giving him away. Nightfall brings the eerie howl of a lone timber wolf when the moon blazes bright. There is no answer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the lone wolf moves on, looking for company.

A thick coating of white hoarfrost covers the landscape as the morning sun breaks through the thick clouds for a moment on a bitterly cold morning. And then it is gone, and grayness once again engulfs creation.

Then comes autumn, the season of transition, one part vibrant color, one part cold and chilling, a prelude to a return to winter. These are the seasons of the North.

On a clear, dark night in late January the aurora borealis, or north lights, dance across the sky like wave after wave of color â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whites, purples, reds, pinks, greens, blues â&#x20AC;&#x201C; pulsating and glowing as if almost alive.

Mother Nature can be warm, bathing her landscape in the fresh green of a springtime morning. She can storm, but spring and summer in the North are often peaceful.

We begin our tour of the seasons as the new year dawns and winter establishes a firm hold on the landscape

Photo by Bill Thornley

FEBRUARY

Chickadees flit about here and there, traveling from bush to bush, greedily munching on life-sustaining seeds and dried berries. How do these tiny bundles of energy survive the frigid nights with but a few feathers to protect them from the sub-zero nights, nights so cold that unprotected human ears, cheeks and lips ache after only a few moments exposure? If there is an inspiration to those of us who call Northern Wisconsin home, it is that tiny survivor, the chickadee. Late afternoon brings the filtered yellow light and deep blue shadows of impending nightfall. A small woodpecker works one final hole, his rat-a-tat-tat-tat reverberating through the stillness of the twilight forest. Skeletons of aspen trees once loaded with leaves stand naked against the horizon as the final light fades. Night brings a full moon and the temperature plummets to -40 degrees, so cold that trees pop and thick breath forms frost on the face of the wolf huddled under a blown-down cedar.

Getting Out Spring 2019

Leader-Telegram

Living

WISCONSIN Journey through Mother Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seasons By Bill Thornley

Getting Out

Spring 2019

Leader-Telegram