Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener

For the second time in the last decade I have been asked to play a special part in one of Minnesota’s biggest holidays. I will be fishing with Lt. Gov Prettner Solon as a host in the 2014 Governor's Fishing opener hosted by Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake. This year will mark the 67th year of its occurrence.

Lt. Gov Prettner Solon buying her license back in 2012 doing her part to support and help kick off one of Minnesota’s biggest industries, the tourism season. Make sure you have yours prior to opener. Photo Credit  to https://mn.gov/governor/blog/?month=2012-04

The Governor’s Fishing Opener is a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was organized to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and now it serves as a kick-off celebration to the state’s summer tourism season. Fishing accounts for a large part of the state’s tourism economy. The sport brings in $11.3 billion every year or about $31 million each day.

The Leisure Outdoor Adventures guide team has volunteered to host media personalities to help spread the passion of hook, line and sinker through events that occur over a 12 hour period on this special day. Being a Brainerd based guide service we look forward to sharing our skill and equipment with the rest of the world in hopes of showcasing the wonderful resources here in the lakes area. Fishing is a very important part of summer Tourism and we are grateful to be able to promote it. Combined, our group has fished over 40 years in the area and Gull lake has seen the brunt of that action.

In 2008 Gov Tim Pawlenty came to the lakes area fished out of Breezy Point Resort on Pelican lake. On this occasion, Senator Norm Coleman and I were able to share a boat for part of the day. What an amazing experience that was. Norm was definitely into it. He brought his own tackle and pole that he had used for years before on opener. “Good Luck” had always graced him with his secret weapon. On this day, it didn't let him down either. After a few hours of catching everything but Willy the Walleye, Norm reached deep into his bag of tricks and found the perfect colored float / spinner combo. (HONESTLY HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT WAS). With a less than lively hunk of meat (dead shiner minnow) Norm quickly set the hook on a nice healthy 19 inch walleye. A instant story for me, and a great way to kick of the fishing season.

I am a believer in Fish Tales and Memories. It’s why our fishing opener is such a sacred occurrence. Every time you are on the water there is a story to be shared and one to be created. As a guide, we are very fortunate to be able to be part of many. SO what is in store for Lt Gov Prettner Solon? My guess is we will have quite a few stories and a few catches as well. In my experience the XX chromosomes share an unfair advantage over fisherman with a Y. Since my first date with my wife (Maggie), every time I share a boat with the ladies, I spend a lot more time netting fish then catching them. I have a theory that by nature, the ladies are much more patient and less fidgety. During the cold water period that surrounds opener, this is a great tip. A lot of fish will be lethargic and not necessarily interested in the fast motion presentations with a ton of action. Perhaps this year I will spend a little extra time getting in touch with my feminine side or it could be a lopsided affair for this fishing guide in this experience with our Lady Lt Governor. But as a gracious fishing guide, I will gladly bow out to the Lt Gov.

For more information on all the events related to this event and to read the official press release go to: http://www.explorebrainerdlakes.com/

On behalf of the entire Leisure Outdoor Adventures guide team we would like to wish everyone a safe 2014 fishing season and a BIG thank you to all of our participating sponsors that allow us to participate in these kinds of opportunities.

<’))))))><

Tight Lines everyone!

Toby Kvalevog

Jigs, Jigs, and More Jigs!

Jigs, Jigs, and More Jigs!

By: Jason Freed

Leisure Outdoor Adventures

For decades, anglers across the country have said if they could have only one lure in their tackle box, it would be the ever-versatile jig.  What used to be the standard lead head jig that we all have thousands of in our tackle boxes or stashed away from Canadian trips, have since expanded into so many different shapes and colors of jigs that it can make a person’s head spin.  What they all have in common though is one simple thing and that is the fact that a jig has so many ways it can effectively be fished and yet continually produce results.  This versatility, combined with the evolution of the fishing industry, has allowed the angler to have an array of choices in their tackle box.  Jigs have diversity in sizes, shapes and colors and we here at LOA, feel that the jig is something that has to be part of every angler’s arsenal.  

With that arsenal of jigs at your fingertips, an angler needs to understand how to apply the concept and presentation of each individual jig to the situation he or she faces on the water.  Ask yourself when you get to the landing or look at the weather report the night before you venture to the lake. What is the wind going to be doing?  How deep do I think I will be fishing?  What kind of minnows might I be using?  As you dissect these questions and put together your vision for success, you can begin to identify which jigs will meet your needs for that day. 

The Set Up

The first and most important thing is to match your jig with the proper rod, reel, and line.  A common set up is a 6’-6’6” Medium Light action rod, partnered with a reel of your choice but something that isn’t big and bulky, one of my favorites is the Pflueger President 25 series, and 6-8lb mono or braid.  Both mono and braid will have advantages, and ultimately it comes down to preference.  Mono shines early in the season because of the added stretch, with many anglers choosing to use a high vis line to detect bites when the jig is eaten during its descent, which is by the far the most common strike of a walleye.  Braid can provide better hook sets and more sensitivity.  Go with what you are comfortable with, but also be prepared to switch things up. 

Picking Out the Right Jig 

When picking out the “magical” jig, take into consideration the type of bait you will be using.  Earlier in the season when shiners or rainbows are the bait of choice using a longer shank jig such as a KenKatch Wide Gap is the ticket because it allows you to do is hook a larger shiner or rainbow minnow through the gill and back up through the belly and spine of the minnow.  This helps your minnow last longer as you jig, fan cast, snap jig, and set the hook into walleye after walleye.  Where as a shorter shank will give your minnow a rolling or even tumbling action at times.   One piece of advice if you find yourself using a shorter shank jig with a larger minnow is attaching a stinger hook to help your hooking percentage. 

 Many anglers are caught up in the rainbow of colors and finishes that jigs come with.  Granted color can be a deciding factor, but initially pay closer attention to the profile and weight of the jig vs. the color.  It is the fall and cadence of your jigging stroke or motion that is provoking those weary walleyes into biting.  Instead, focus on using a lighter jig such as a 1/16^th or 1/8^th oz jig, which give you a slower descent with the jig, and swimming motion.  If you are fishing in a river or current situation, you will adapt with using a heavier jig to keep in contact with the bottom, such as a 3/8ths, 1/2oz, or even 3/4oz. 

Lastly, the profile of the jig can also play a role in your success.  An intricate detail such as this can be the “golden ticket” on those days where other anglers are struggling and stuck in their comfort zones.   It is important that you know your jigs and their motions inside and out, because that will dictate your jigging cadence and stroke.  Jigs with a vertical or stand up profile will depict a minnow feeding on the bottom as it dances and pops along the bottom.  Jigs that have a round head, such as the KenKatch 3D Eye Jig or the Marabou Jig will give you more of a swimming or leap frogging action across the water column. 

Effectively Using a Jig

Once you have your set up complete, begin utilizing various techniques and methods to your jigging madness, as this will help dictate what the walleyes want on that given day.  If you are working a specific piece of structure pitching jigs may be what you need to focus on doing, if you are working large expansive flats such as on Leech Lake, snap jigging is going to be a very effective way to search out active fish.  Once you have the fish located, begin to put the pieces of the puzzle together by changing up your jigging cadence to match the moods of the fish.  It is important that you create a mental journal of the cadence that is working and continue to hone it.  A great jig angler is a thing of beauty because they have their different cadences dialed in and are willing to change them up at any given moment.  If your partner is catching more fish, pay close attention to what jigging stroke he or she is using and then mimic it.  If that does not work then look at their line angle, which can simply be adjusted by dropping or raising your rod tip.  Also pay close attention to the time in between your jigging strokes after the jig has made contact with the bottom, sometimes that extra one, two, or even three seconds as it sits in the sand or weed pocket can be the difference between catching a just a few to putting your limits in the live well.  Whenever you are jig fishing, you have to note that casting is going to out produce the jig fisherman who is dangling the jig over the side of the boat, especially early in the season when fishing shallower structure.  Use your casts to determine fish location and movement. 

 Remember when putting this jig puzzle together it is all about putting all the right ingredients together to create the ultimate recipe for success.  So as you stare at your jig box looking for the perfect jig for this upcoming opener, think about all these factors and begin to put your own puzzle together, because there is nothing more gratifying than that. 

Good luck this 2014 Walleye Opener, Be Safe, and GET HOOKED!

A Helpful Tip from Leisure Outdoor Adventures

When cruising shallow flats, you will often times not mark fish on your sonar, instead turn on your side imaging.  With Lowrance HDS Series, the side imaging allows you to identify schools of fish that are off to the left or right of you giving you a distinct advantage and decreasing your time spent looking for fish.  

What are some of the favorite jigs of the LOA Guide Team and why?

Toby Kvalevog – KenKatch Wide Gap Jig – You are able to hook the minnow through the belly and out the back and still have, enough gap to not miss fish.

Jeff Andersen – KenKatch Hair Jig – The extra hair provides a larger profile with a slower drop, giving you the ability to use harder snaps with a slack line fall.

Jason Freed – KenKatch Banana Head Jig – Its one of a kind profile gives the jig a unique swimming and jig stroke that helps provoke walleyes into biting.    

Chuck Hasse – Northland Vegas Jig – This is my favorite jig because of the longer shank, color variations, and its proven production.

Jim Ernster – VMC Moon Eye Jig – Its long shank helps keep bait and plastics in place and the large eyes do a great job of mimicking a shiner’s eyes.

Tim Hanske – 3/16^th oz Gopher Mushroom Jig – Fishes well at any depth and with a variety of plastics such as Berkley Gulp, which is one of my favorite things to fish for walleyes with. 

 

Rice Creek Gun Fair - Reeds Sporting Goods

Are you shopping for a new gun?  If so you want to put on your calender the 22nd annual Rice Creek Gun Fair held on April 11-13th.  We all know shopping now days is so hard to make a choice especially when fit and finish makes a difference in your shooting.  At the Rice Creek Gun Fair you can try a gun before you buy.  So if you can't decide between a Browning or Winchester shoot it and that will help make your decision.  Also the deals are unreal.  I don't think you will find a better deal on guns anywhere.  Top all that off with Expedition Shooting, Hunting and Shooting Celebrities, Vendors, ect.  Click Here to Visit www.ricecreekgunfair.com for complete information.

Ice Shots 2014: Another Huge Success!

Leisure Outdoor Adventures along with Chase on the Lake helped host the third annual Ice Shots Media Event.  “Ice Shots” is an organized media event which allows top media talent to gain content  to fulfill their media needs for the up and coming season.  Companies like In-Fisherman, Outdoor News, F&W Publication, Up North Inc, and many more were in attendance this year.  Ice Shots serves as a springboard into the hard water season for the next year giving these writers and photographers a sneak peak at some of the new and cutting edge products and technology coming out the next season from sponsors like Clam Outdoors and Vexilar.  Media are also given the opportunity to gain ideas for future articles and content for their future publications, photographs of products, ice fishing pros in action, as well as their own opportunity to fish and experience what this great sport is all about.

From the time they show up to the time they say their goodbyes, everyone from the Pros to the Media are given a first class experience.  With the help of the Chase on the Lake Resort everyone is given

incredible hospitality, dine on delicious food, and the comfort of a relaxing and one of a kind environment.   This year we were treated with awesome weather and conditions to help fill the memory cards and brain banks of every person who was invited, whether it was the shots of jumbo perch, huge crappies, the infamous eel pout, new product, or just the opportunity to watch the sun set on beautiful Leech Lake with the likes of Dave Genz, Jason Mitchell, Jeff Andersen, and the rest of the best in the ice fishing industry who proudly wear the colors of Clam and Vexilar.  This is truly an experience and something all media who cover ice fishing should consider putting on their calendars.  There isn’t another event that provides a first class and one of kind experience from the time you walk in the door to the final hand shakes and hugs good bye.

We want to thank Clam Outdoors and Vexilar for being gracious sponsors and taking their time to drive up to Leech Lake and help put on another incredible event.   Both of these companies set the

Nick Chiodo, Jeff "Jiggy" Andersen, Jason Mitchell and Dave Genz

bar and standard in the ice fishing industry and we are very lucky to be able to work with them for this event but also throughout the season.  Many relationships were built and grew this year at this awesome event.  Success can be measured in so many ways whether it is all the work put into and during the event, the endless amounts of photographs, videos, and article ideas that were thrown out of the course of three days you simply can’t put a number of how much is really accomplished for everyone involved.  Throw in the friendships, smiles, and laughs that are constantly being shown throughout the event, you have something we feel is one of a kind and truly unique to anything else in the country.  

For an opportunity to take part in “Ice Shots 2015” please contact Jeff at jeffa@leisureoutdooradventures.com

Until Next Year

The Leisure Outdoor Adventures Team

Clam Outdoors/Vexilar/Ice Team

Some Other Pics from the Event

The group set up for a morning of Jumbo Perch fishing on Leech Lake

Fellow Iowans  Ice Team Pro Kevan Paul and LOA Guide and President Jason Freed

Fish Fry on the Ice.  Thanks to Bob and Ginny Riege as well as Bob Auel and LOA Guide Jim Ernster for putting this on.

Ice Team Pros Matt Breuer and Dave Genz

 

Vexilar Specialist Corey Studer and Ice Team Pro Scott Seibert

Lake of the Woods Ice Team Trip

I just returned home from an Ice Team give-a-way fishing trip that was given away at the St. Paul Ice Show.  Fellow Ice Team member Jason Hamilton, Steve Geertsen, his son Owen, and myself got to share the ice with the winners, Dustin and Bryce, a father son duo.

Our destination was the Morson Area of Lake of the Woods which is located in Ontario approx. 45 minutes from Baudette.  Our home base was Tolen's Pelican Landing (Click Here).  This is an area I have spent many years fishing but only during the soft water period.

Bryce and Dustin with a LOTW Monster Crappie

Tolen's lodge owner Robert said the fishing had been good when we arrived.  With sharp hooks, fresh drilling arms, full gas tanks, and eager spirits we headed out into the reef filled Lake of the Woods.  Our game plan was to go out and have a great time setting the hook.  Not necessarily to catch the largest fish to start things off.

Prior to Dustin and Bryce arriving we had the chance to do a little pre fishing.  Robert had an area that had been holding some fish and we ended up fishing there for a few hours the evening before the guys arrived.  It was good as we caught several walleyes and crappies.  So that's were we started.

We drilled out the main lake point location and it wasn't happening.  I mean the fish weren't there at that moment.  Game On I thought to myself!  The night prior I had studied some locations that I wanted to fish and told the guys, "I'm going to head to a new spot to search out some fish!"  Dustin, winner of the give-a-way, said, "You're not leaving me behind.  I'm coming with."  Sweet a guy that likes to move and groove.  Off we went.  Jason Hamilton and I drilled a 20 hole set in a feeding area or what appeared to be a feeding area of a main lake rock reef.  We started to fish and the screen lit up!  After setting the hook on a 13, 13.5 and 14 inch crappie I told Dustin I better go get the other guys!  I mean these were monster crappies.  We gathered up the boys and the hooks sets didn't slow down.  Walleye, crappie, perch, pike, small mouth bass, and on and on.  We fished this area for several hours and the urge to set the hook was over satisfied if that is possible?

The guys, Dustin and Bryce, wanted to explore and chase down a larger walleye.  We ended up fishing several reefs.  Most had fish and some more then the other, but no giant walleyes.  We ended the day with buckets full of fish.

We arrived back at camp and Robert and crew put together an awesome meal.  You could see the smiles for all the anglers as this is what fishing is all about.  A successful day catching fish, great memories and new friends.

The next day started on a reef, called Suzette Reef, were I had fished with my dad many years ago when he told us, our Mother Suzette had cancer.  It was an emotional day filled full of big walleyes and we have now named that reef "Suzette Reef".  (Click Here for that Story)  We caught a few fish but nothing crazy so on we went.  Searching as a group.  We had a great day moving, catching lots of fish, but still no giant walleyes.

We ended in Robert's spot and just as the sun hit the trees Bryce hooked up.  He landed a giant walleye and shortly after Dustin landing a dandy!

Bryce with a Monster Walleye to end the Trip!

Couldn't have ended a better way!

Clam Pro Tackle Blade Spoon!

As many of you know I'm not a hype guy when it comes to presentation.  I want a lure that simply works.  Part of that is understanding that lures triggering qualities.  I have been fishing with the Clam Blade Spoon this entire winter and it has been on fire.  The really cool thing is this lure caught every fish for the two days on Lake of the Woods.  It was simply the hot lure!




Book a Guided Fishing Trip with Leisure Outdoor Adventures Fishing Team at www.LeisureOutdoorAdventures.com  We are providing guided fishing trips on many lakes including the Brainerd Lakes Area, Gull Lake, Whitefish Chain, North Long, Pelican along with the Leech Lake Area.

Good Luck Fishing!

Jiggy Andersen

Here are a few other shots from the trip.

Jason Hamilton with a big LOTW Crappie

Tolen's Pelican Landing 

Book a Guided Fishing Trip with Leisure Outdoor Adventures Fishing Team at www.LeisureOutdoorAdventures.com  We are providing guided fishing trips on many lakes including the Brainerd Lakes Area, Gull Lake, Whitefish Chain, North Long, Pelican along with the Leech Lake Area.

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Call 855-LOA-HOOK to book your guided fishing trip today!