outdoor traditions magazine - summer 2013

Your Best Shot The Perfect Picture

Memory Lane Local Traditions

Taste of the WildRecipes

Outdoor GearNew Products

brainerddispatch.com/outdoor_traditions

The JerkFishing Techniques124 Tips for Better Food Plots15

Mille LacsLake Management 5

Camping in theBrainerd Lakes Area

Summer 2013

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The Log

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FEATURES

Contributing Staff:

PublisherTim Bogenschutz

Copy EditorMatt Erickson

Marketing & LayoutJess Vealetzek

Ad DesignCreative Services

SalesDave Wentzel

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

Mille Lacs Lake Management >>> 5By Jim KalkofenProblems have surfaced at Mille Lacs, the states premier walleye lake.

Camping in the Brainerd Lakes Area >>> 8By Phil SeibelBe sure to add these destinations to your summer agenda!

The Jerk >>> 12By Dave CsandaA simple way to catch everything that swims!

A Publication

DEPARTMENTSBetter Food Plots >>> 15By Bill MarchelFour tips for better food plots

Hit the Trails >>> 20By MN DNR Stay safe on the trails this summer

Memory Lane >>> 22By Jess VealetzekCamp Ripley archery hunt

Your Best Shot >>> 25By Tim BogenshutzPicture perfect outdoors photos

Taste of the Wild >>> 18By Brainerd DispatchRecipes you just have to try!

Summer Forecast >>> 26By MN DNRKeeping you up-to-date on outdoors

Summer 2013

15

WelcomeWe often hear people say, “don’t

forget where your roots are.” Well that phrase has tremendous meaning and can be applied to more situations than one might think. Over the last couple of months, our staff members at the Dispatch have been rolling that quote around in their minds and trying to apply the message to our Outdoor Traditions magazine. The appreciation that we have for our readers is unparalleled and we want to show that by continuing to offer you the best outdoors magazine that we can.

When the first edition of OT was published in 2006, the goal was to celebrate the many reasons outdoor enthusiasts came to Central Minnesota and why many of them never left. Our goal going into 2014 will be to reignite that passion within our staff, our talented freelance writers, and of course you, our readers. The Brainerd lakes area has so much to offer that it will take years and years to uncover all the wonders, mysteries, and stories that are yet to be discovered. It is because of this love of nature that we want to delve into the amazing journey.

Over the last several years, we have greatly enjoyed having the opportunity to receive some truly amazing stories from our readers. Much like our own stories, yours have helped us get to know you and they have also given all of us that many more reasons to love the outdoors. There is nothing quite like the feeling that comes with reminiscing on your first camping trip, first deer, or even those times when

you had to learn some lessons the hard way! What better way to have these tales live on than to put them down on paper and show them to friends and family for years to come! As in our very first Welcome message, we are requesting your help in finding Central Minnesota’s most interesting outdoors topics to write about, photograph, and share with our readers.

There are departments that we are going to re-introduce in this edition of OT, including Memory Lane and Taste of the Wild. We will also be introducing new departments and topics in our editions to come, such as Reader Tips & Tactics, Reader Comments, New Outdoors Gear, and more! Our digital platform will be greatly enhanced as well, so that you will be able to keep up with the great outdoors from anywhere and everywhere that you may be.

So what are we looking for from you? We would love to get your comments on our current editions so that we can publish your thoughts in our future issues. If you have any unique or handy tips and tactics that pertain to the outdoors, we want to share those with other outdoor enthusiasts like yourself and publish those as well! Our Memory Lane topic can only survive if we continue to receive your favorite family stories or traditions, so we encourage you to send those in- and pictures are always great to include in your story!

The writers that we have chosen are regularly involved in the outdoors and each will always be an avid enthusiast of the story’s subject matter.

We will continue to publish a new edition of Outdoor Traditions each season and we will strive to have each edition be even better than the last! The many contributions of our special writers, together with those of you the reader, will allow us to help share and celebrate Central Minnesota’s rich Outdoor Traditions.

There is an unmatched tranquility found in the outdoors and its perfect simplicity is like therapy for the mind and soul. Nature is the perfect remedy for the stressful, busy lives we all seem to have today. Let Outdoor Traditions magazine be your vacation from reality! Thank you again for all of your support and dedication and enjoy the summer 2013 edition of Outdoor Traditions!

We would love to hear your thoughts on the topics and articles in this edition of Outdoor Traditions. Please submit your comments and/or outdoors tips & tactics to Jess Vealetzek at [email protected] by August

1st, 2013 and look for them in our next edition! Thank you for helping make Outdoor Traditions a success!

Sincerely,

Jess VealetzekMarketing Coordinator

The largest lake in the Brainerd-lakes area is also one of the state’s most popular. Mille Lacs is famous because of its many fine resorts. Some have

been long-time, generational family resorts. Colorful launches and launch

New Regulations for Mille Lacs


The largest lake in the Brainerd-lakes area is also one of the state’s most popular. Mille Lacs is famous because of its many fine resorts. Some have

been long-time, generational family resorts. Colorful launches and launch

Minnesota’s Most Intensively Managed Lake

By: Jim Kalkofen

5

“Mille Lacs was traditionally the shining

example of what a natural walleye lake

should be.”

captains add to the lake’s allure. Many of the walleye world’s top guides and pro anglers got their starts on Mille Lacs. Its long history of great walleye fishing fills memories, photo albums and videos. State anglers and non-residents alike have Mille Lacs on their top-10 lists of favorite places to fish. The second largest inland lake in the state with 132,500 surface acres typically sees thousands of boats on any given weekend. And, it is also one of the most talked-about, debated and intensively managed lakes.

Mille Lacs was traditionally the

shining example of what a natural walleye lake should be. Other species were not even considered. Sure, the perch became more popular with ice anglers in modern times. If a walleye angler caught some of the jumbos, they’d go in the livewell. Cane-polers pulling spoons and plugs over the weeds targeted a few pike. But, overall it was walleyes, walleyes, and more walleyes that attracted the tourists and locals alike.

In the 1970s and 1980s, DNR’s muskie stocking program took off. Also about this time, for whatever the

reason, an explosion of smallmouth bass occurred. Smallmouth were seldom seen by guides or anglers up until then. Concerned anglers have observed dramatic smallmouth “takeovers” of traditional walleye reefs. Now, with data showing low survival of very young walleyes – possibly because of too many mouths eating them and/or competing for food – the NEW 2013 Mille Lacs fishing regulations encourage more catch and keep of pike and a dramatic shift towards harvesting more smallmouth bass.

The new regs:

Northern Pike: All fish 33 to 40 inches must be released immediately (was 27 to 40 inches last year); an angler may keep three pike, with only one being over 40 inches.

Smallmouth Bass: For many years, the limit was one bass and it had to be over 21 inches long. In 2013, an angler must release all smallies from 17 to 20 inches; and may keep six bass under 17 inches; with only one being greater than 20 inches.

Walleye: The limit is two walleyes, and they must fall into the 18- to 20-inch range. An angler might travel thousands of miles or a local angler might make 100 trips to the lake, but the tight daily limit is constrained to two inches. It’s two walleyes within two inches (18 to 20), except one walleye over 28 inches may be kept if the angler has only one between 18 and 20 inches. Due to treaty fisheries management, the “safe allowable harvest” for anglers is 178,750 pounds in 2013, half of last year’s allowed kill. Could the actual harvest plus estimated hooking mortality of released walleyes (which is also figured into the computations) push anglers past their total allowed poundage? If so, what then?

As an Intensive Management Lake, the DNR may change angling regs throughout the year, as it states in the Fishing Regulations handbook, “…to maintain sustainable fish populations.” A major reason for the intense walleye management


6

at Mille Lacs is the presence of a springtime tribal-managed gill-net fishery. With miles of gill nets set overnight, the netters target congregated spawning walleyes, where about 80 percent of the fish are moderate-sized males; the very fish the DNR worries are too scarce in the lake.

Mille Lacs also is DNR-regulated with a night closure from May 13 to June 10. No fishing or boats with fishing equipment are allowed on the lake from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. during this time.

One of the most respected historians of all things Mille Lacs, and a premier launch captain for 25 years shared some of his insights and opinions about the great lake during a recent interview. Joe Fellegy now lives in Baxter, but maintains strong ties to Mille Lacs, traveling there often in all seasons. His love of the lake was reflected during a recent discussion when he said the following.

“Part of Mille Lacs’ mystique is its wide-open ‘inland sea’ character. The big lake’s fascinating offshore mudflats, gravel bars, and vast areas of ‘deep nowhere’ have lured and challenged generations of anglers. Group-fishing on big boats, accommodating both ‘walk-ons’ and single-group charters, is a popular mainstay at Mille Lacs. There’s fishing within a minute of any access, thanks to a hundred miles of diverse sand, gravel, and rocky near-shore structure—sharp breaks and points, gentle slopes, and scattered rock reefs and sand-gravel bars, deep and shallow.

“Through its century-plus as Minnesota’s most popular angling destination, big Mille Lacs has worn many names. When abundant well-fed walleyes snubbed anglers in 1941, 1957, and 1985, it was often the Dead Sea. But ever since the resort-building boom of the 1920s, spurred by primitive-auto traffic and a pioneer dirt “highway” system, Mille Lacs has been the state’s walleye capitol, its premier walleye lake and

an overall multi-species sport-fishing mecca. Its long history of hosting popular local and big-

activity on Mille Lacs.” Kari Hough, owner of Garrison

Sports on the shore of the lake has seen it all, and regarding the two-walleye limit, said, “This will do the least amount of damage to businesses with the most good for the lake.” He feels the regulars will be happy with the fishing, but the part-timers may not come this year. “More restrictions drive people away,” he said. “I think the DNR is approaching this season

name walleye tournaments may be unrivalled in Minnesota.

“Last fall, when low walleye counts in DNR’s annual fish-population surveys made headlines, Mille Lacs crankbait trollers, bobber watchers, night launch customers, and even shore-fishermen still experienced rod-bending action. Whatever the news cycle forced by ‘treaty fisheries management,’ anglers should know that fish-catching still is a regular

thinking anglers will catch 10 or 12 walleyes and keep two 19-inchers and go home.”

He continued that thought by saying, “If they think there will be fewer people fishing, this will backfire on them. With tons of 19-inchers, limits will be the rule and more people will hit the lake.” Hough cited the huge number of anglers last fall and winter. This limit will work for those who think they need a couple fish, Hough predicted, and said, “Fishing is for pleasure, not for subsistence.”

Tutt’s Bait Shop owner Sarah King was hopeful fishing would be good to make up for the business lost due to the late ice this spring. “If the bite is good, people will come to catch fish, even though they won’t be able to keep many. Those of us depending on making a living based on weather and fish biting are good at saying our prayers.”

Mille Lacs continues to make news on many fronts, including the only large-scale gill-netting operation in the country that targets congregated spawning walleyes. This spring’s late ice-out greatly limited netting and saved tens of thousands of walleyes, especially those scarce walleyes under 17 inches. The six Wisconsin bands and the Fond du Lac Band may not net or spear Mille Lacs after May 15.

Joe Fellegy has been critical of the large spawning-time gill-net fishery, the workings of treaty fisheries management and its impacts. Tribal treaty harvest is part of the legal

scene. But, he said, “The use of gill nets for Mille Lacs walleye spawners is a political decision by taxpayer-funded tribal management. Beyond negatively impacting a fish population, it forces extremist management by the DNR and constant hassle for the sport-fishing community.”

He observed, “Minnesota has long employed some of the nation’s

finest fisheries biologists. The scope of fisheries research and population assessments at Mille Lacs over the years is remarkable. But, with separate and very different state and tribal fisheries, the latter impacting the former, there’s a powerful political side. When there’s a tribal connection, the usual standards of government, politics, journalism

and academics go out the door. Legitimate issues can’t be debated. Hard questions about policies and costs go unasked. Too often, secrecy reigns and decision-makers on both sides go unaccountable.”

Like other Minnesota license-buyers and citizen-owners of the lake, Fellegy questioned why so many in high places turn blind eyes and do nothing to rescue the Mille Lacs fish and people from the gill-netting related management challenges. “In my mind, this is unacceptable controversy and hassle,” he said. “Last year the Mille Lacs Fishery Input Group passed a resolution asking DNR officials to use state legal and political clout to end the mess. Have they? Unfortunately, he answered his question with one word – “No!” He continues to implore anglers to contact state leaders and ask them to work towards eliminating the controversy. “I want headlines to read about the great walleye fishing, not a fishery in crisis or a fishing community entangled in uncertainty.” In the meantime, Fellegy and the rest of us will still love and fish Mille Lacs.

Jim Kalkofen has been in and around boats all his life. He has been director of the largest walleye tournament

circuits for two decades, and was inducted into the

National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame.

TUnmatched

8Camping in the Brainerd Lakes Area

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but an experience is irreplaceable. I learned this at an early age about the joys of camping. When I was younger my family would go tent camping all across the region- Minnesota State Parks, the Dakotas, and even out to Wyoming and Montana. We would pack up a conversion van with our gear, pack a cooler full of sandwiches and snacks and hit the road. For the next week we would cram as many activities as we possibly could into our day- hiking, exploring, and sightseeing. Those were some of my favorite memories from my youth and this is a tradition my wife and I want to share with our kids now as we have a family of our own.

Fortunately for us, the Brainerd Lakes Area is perfectly suited for camping and outdoor recreation and the variety and location makes our outings fun and keeps them nearby. With three kids under the age of seven it’s not always easy to make long trips away from home, and the amount of gear we need to have with more than quadruples. All that really means is we put a little more planning into our outings and we have discovered ways to explore different places for different activities. Here are some of our top picks.

The first two on the list aren’t camping destinations per say, but for any family with small children, they are a great way to introduce kids to the great outdoors!

The Paul Bunyan TrailThe Trail is our go to quick

fix. With miles of paved trails it’s easy to take our younger ones in a stroller and our oldest can ride her bike. In addition to being easily accessible from multiple points on Highway 371, they are also conveniently located near communities and way points that we can take breaks and enjoy the fresh air. The Trail also offers a wide range of wildlife and flora that can be seen right on the trail and it makes for a great learning experience for the kids whether it’s identifying flowers, caterpillars or trees.

The Northland ArboretumAnother non-camping area, this is our location to spend an

afternoon. It’s easy to get to, and with the recent landscaping they’ve done over the past couple years, it really is a great place to enjoy a day. They also have a wide selection of flora and fauna that the kids can enjoy, including songbirds, waterfowl, deer and many different plant species. One thing I like about their landscaping is they identify some of the unique varieties so the parents can learn something new too. Another unique aspect of this location is they are open year round for various activities and we have enjoyed snowy treks in the winter too.

By: Phil Seibel

Beth Molitor holds one-year-old Oliver while

he touches the water in the Waterfall Garden at the

Northland Arboretum.

T Cuyuna Regional Recreation Area

Easily recognized in our local area, the Cuyuna Rec Area offers not only camping, but also the wide range of outdoor experiences, many unique to our region. In addition to hiking trails and established areas, they also have access to non-motorized lakes and filled mine pits that offer a tranquil location for fishermen and those with canoes or kayaks. These pits are also home to trout and can offer a little variety for people looking for something other than panfish in a hurry. The boat accesses are easy to navigate and the scenery helped keep the attention of the little ones long enough to get a line wet and catch some supper.

Crow Wing County State Park

This State Park is just down the road from us and they bring a whole different side of things to the table. Minnesota State Parks have long been known for their Naturalist programs and the information they can provide to the kids and this is a great way for them to learn more about nature from a professional. The State Park system has also embraced Geocaching and this park has multiple caches that are great for both beginners and more experienced cachers. While there is no lake in the park, the Crow Wing River runs through it and combined with the old pioneer village remnants it makes for a great history lesson.

ranquility

9Camping in the Brainerd Lakes Area

The Crosy-Ironton landscape from the overlook at the Cuyuna Lakes State Recreational Area.

Kathio State Park

Kathio is another State Park, and it’s about the furthest we’ve gone with all the kids. They have multiple lakes you can access, including Mille Lacs which is just across the road, and offers the traditional State Park experience. One neat feature that put this park on the list is that they also offer family cabin options in case you don’t have a tent, or want a little reprieve from nature.

Army Corp of Engineers Park at Gull Dam

This is probably one of the busiest areas on this list, in addition to easy access to Gull Lake, they also have camping areas, a beach and a playground. It’s very close by, easy to get in and out of the lake, and has enough equipment there to keep our entire family busy all day. They also have a group picnic shelter which is perfect for larger gatherings, although there is usually plenty of open grass area near the beach too.

Camping in the Brainerd Lakes Area10

For more outdoor information on a weekly and daily basis... check out the Outdoor Traditions page each week in the Brainerd Dispatch or refer

to brainerddispatch.com/outdoor_traditions

One of the family cabins at Kathio State Park.

How well do you know your Minnesota facts? Take the quiz below to find out!

1. Minnesota has the largest wolf and bald eagle populations in the lower 48 states.

TrueFalse

2. Number of recreational watercraft per capita?

A. 1 boat for every 50 residentsB. 1 boat for every 10 residentsC. 1 boat for every 6 residentsD. 1 boat for every 110 residents

3. Coldest Temperature on record?

A. -45 degrees FB. -60 degrees FC. -30 degrees FD. -65 degrees F

4. TIP (Turn in Poachers) arrests to date?

A. 10,550B. 4,000C. 8,350D. 9,410

5. Minnesota has how many fishable lakes?

A. 5,493B. 10,000C. 8,254D. 2,167

6. Minnesota is home to the famous Witch Tree.

TrueFalse

7. Number of wildfires fought annually?

A. 1,400B. 3,000C. 2,600D. 4,000+

8. Number of game species in Minnesota?

A. 50B. 150C. 110D. 75

9. Minnesota’s waters flow outward in five directions.

TrueFalse

10. There are ____ counties with no natural lakes?

A. 0B. 5C. 12D. 4

Did You Know?1. True 2. C 3. B 4. D 5. A 6. True 7. A 8. C 9. False 10. D *For more information on the answers, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us

Fishing- The Jerk

The JerkA Simple Way to Catch Everything that Swims

By: Dave Csanda

12

There are great several ways to work jerks—all of them good, although sometimes, one method out-produces another.

When the water’s cold, like in late spring, we tend to use slower swims with occasional pumps of the rod tip, followed by extended pauses. This gives fish like smallmouths and walleyes time to evaluate their prey and move in for the kill. Modest-sized jerkbaits baits like Rapala’s X-Rap 10 or 12—which are 4 and 4 ¾ inches long, respectively—are ideal.

If we’re targeting brook trout, we’d likely drop down to the smaller size 8. For pike or muskies, bump up to a size 14, which is actually a larger saltwater bait that’s one of my local go-to lures, ideal for catching big toothy critters in freshwater. And add a lightweight wire leader to deflect sharp teeth and bite-offs. In the process, the tactic produces loads of bass and walleyes as well.

When the water’s warm, like in summer, we pick up the pace, imparting a series of rapid, sharp jerks to the bait by repeatedly snapping the rod tip while simultaneously reeling up slack line. This makes the bait jump unpredictably up, down and side-to-side. But then, the key is…pausing…at least for a few seconds. The bait goes from hyperdrive to stall, again infuriating following fish into smashing it with a vengeance.

In each case, we match our tackle to the size of the lure and the species we’re most likely to catch. Small- to modest-sized baits work best on spinning gear, typically with 8- to 10-pound test line. Larger baits worker better on casting tackle and 14- to as much as 30-pound test line.

Here’s the deal, however. When the water’s cold, we like to use monofilament line, which stretches a bit on every pump of the rod tip to reduce lure action a bit. Yet when the water’s warm, we like to use no-stretch superline, which really makes baits shoot, jump and jive with extreme, unpredictable action. Yet in all cases, we still follow up our action sequence with a pause. The motion attracts, but the pause triggers strikes.

In clear water, we tend to use colors that mimic the local forage species, like whites or silvery patterns that imitate shiners

“When the water’s darker, we go with higher visibility patterns like fire tiger or clown that are easier for fish

to see.”

The Brainerd Area is known for great multi-species fishing opportunities for walleyes, largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, muskie, crappies and bluegills, and even trout in both mine pits and select local rivers. With such a diverse fishery available, you can rest assured that when it’s time to go fishing, somewhere, somehow, something will be biting.

When it comes to fishing, everyone has their own preferences and favorite techniques. Some anglers are single-species enthusiasts, meaning that that target a certain fish like walleyes, most of the time. Most folks, however, don’t discriminate. They simply want to get bit, and to tangle with something big and powerful pulling on the end of their line.

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could use one lure and method, just about everywhere, to catch everything that swims? And never know in advance which species of fish might bite on your next cast? That’s the kind of anticipation and thrill that makes fishing the Brainerd Area so spectacular. Particularly when the system is so easy that anyone can employ and enjoy it with great success.

The JerkIn the old days, the term “jerkbait” meant large,

heavy chunks of wood sprouting multiple oversized treble hooks. They were almost exclusively flung for muskies and pike, although other species wrapped their jaws around their magnum profiles. Still do, in fact.

In modern parlance, the term “jerkbait” arises out of the bass market. It applies to long, thin minnow imitators that resemble Rapala’s Original Minnow, a classic fish-catching profile that’s been tearing up the fishing world for 50 years and more. But rather than incorporating a subtle, wiggling, high-flotation balsa body, jerkbaits are instead molded from durable plastic, and internally weighted to be not too heavy, not too light, but just right. Kind of a Goldilocks thing.

Their precisely-balanced design makes jerkbaits neutrally buoyant, meaning that when you pause your retrieve or stop pulling them through the water, they neither float back toward the surface, nor sink toward the bottom. They suspend in place, totally vulnerable before a fish’s eyes, just begging to get whacked. This “hanging in suspense” characteristic totally infuriates following or hesitant fish into striking.

or ciscoes, or perch patterns that resemble yellow perch. When the water’s darker, we go with higher-visibility patterns like fire tiger or clown that are easier for fish to see. Good rules to follow…but all rules are meant to be broken.

Because sometimes, fish respond best to bright, wild color patterns, even in clear water. Smallmouth bass are classic examples. They simply love hot pink jerkbaits, and jump all over them at times while ignoring all others. Who can say why? Actually, it doesn’t matter why—just that they do. Try one on the many shallow, scattered rock humps rimming nearly the entire perimeter of Mille Lacs Lake. On a calm day, using polarized sunglasses you can see the rocks—and loads of bass roaming shallow water, following, chasing and smacking your lures at boatside.

(Special note: The Minnesota DNR recently changed Mille Lacs smallmouth regulations to allow the harvest of smaller- to midsize fish for the first time in many years. That doesn’t mean you have to keep them; in fact, we suggest continued catch-and-release to help maintain one of

the finest smallmouth fisheries on earth.)

Back to the tactic, and where it works best. Most of the time, you’ll be targeting relatively shallow water with jerkbaits; most shallow runners dive about 3 to 4 feet deep, while some deep divers dip down to maybe 8 feet on the retrieve.

The key is to fish spots where actively feeding fish are attracted to or collect in shallow water. In spring, shallow bays and river mouths are prime targets. In summer, windblown points, mainlake weedbeds and shallow rocky humps are superb. So are areas where current funnels between islands or lakes connected by flowing water. Current draws baitfish, which draw predators, which should draw…you!

Last year, Rapala introduced a number of smaller profile X-Raps—size 04 and 06, 1 ½ and 2 inches, respectively--that appeal to fish with smaller mouths, such as crappies and bluegills. During June and early July, toss them along the deep edges of mainlake weedbeds for panfish schooling near and feeding on the surface on calm summer evenings; on

consecutive casts, cast a little into the weeds, and a little out of the weeds to adjacent deeper water, to determine the best area of fish activity in relation to the weedline. Or, twitch them along the wild rice beds rimming the section of the Mississippi River just above Rice Lake, virtually within the Brainerd city limits, for some of the largest panfish in the Brainerd Area.

In the end, jerkbaits aren’t magic baits, although they certainly seem like them at times. The next time you launch your boat, don’t leave home without a selection. Put a jerk on the end of you’re line, and something’s going to jerk back. Guaranteed!

14Fishing- The Jerk

“...all rules are meant to be broken.”

Dave Csanda is a veteran outdoor communicator/TV co-

host who works at Lindner’s Angling Edge Television in Baxter. He is also president of the Brainerd Lakes Area

Chapter of Let’s Go Fishing (www.lgfwsbrainerdarea.

com), a Minnesota-based non-profit volunteer organization

that takes seniors, youths and veterans fishing for free.

15

4 Tips for Better Food Plots

When implementing food plots to attract deer and other wildlife to your property there are many facets to consider for optimum results. The following four tips will help you to improve your food plot success whether your property is small or large.


By: Bill Marchel

Did you know you can use your GPS to calculate the acreage of a food plot? Acreage calculation via GPS might not be news to modern farmers, but most recreational landowners I have spoken with were not aware that GPS units feature this time-and-money-saving option.

It’s important to know the correct acreage of a food plot because that knowledge will help determine the proper amount of lime, fertilizer and seed needed to produce a quality plot. Guessing at the plot size is not a good idea because overestimating the size will waste money on excess chemicals and seed, and underestimating the size will result in insufficient applications of the same, ultimately compromising the quality of the plot.

I used my Garmin GPS to determine the exact acreage of each of the 13 food plots on my property. To accomplish the undertaking, I simply picked a starting location on the perimeter of a plot, pressed a few buttons on my GPS, then walked the outskirts of the opening. As I strolled along I watched the screen on my GPS, and like magic, my track was plotted. When I completed the loop, I pushed another button on my GPS and presto, I had the precise acreage of the interior of my route.

If you don’t know whether or not your GPS is capable of area calculation, review your owner’s manual or contact “Support” at the company’s Web site.

Most modern GPS’s feature an option that calculates

the acreage of a food plot. Don’t guess at the plot size

because overestimating will waste money on excess

chemicals and seed, and underestimating the size will result in insufficient applications of the same.

Calculate The Acreage

Mow Those Food PlotsIn the fight against weeds in

perennial food plots a mower is a particularly useful tool. Periodic mowing not only discourages broadleaf leaves in, for instance, a clover or chicory food plot, but also improves forage quality. When plants like clover mature the fiber content increases and the nutritional value decreases. Occasional mowing will stimulate new growth which is more digestible and nourishing to deer.

However, mowing during a dry period can be damaging to clovers and other desirable food plot plants. Normally I would mow my perennial food plots at least twice during a summer. This year, due to a late spring, I’ll likely skip my June mowing because of delayed growth. Don’t mow after early August. Allow the plants to mature to provide the most forage during late summer and fall.

Seclusion Is ParamountPrior to implementing food plots

on your acreage consider soil quality and moisture and then decide on the plot location. Keep in mind seclusion is important, especially if your ultimate goal is to attract mature bucks to the plot. If possible locate

the plot out of sight of any road and close to heavy bedding cover

to encourage deer to visit your plots during daylight hours.

Or consider planting a sight barrier of trees and shrubs between the plot

and, for instance, a nearby road. I know the thought of waiting several years for the trees to grow can be a determent, but time flies, and the sooner you plant that sight barrier, the sooner you can enjoy the results. You can also plant a dozen or so rows of corn or sunflowers as a temporary sight barrier while you wait for your 16


trees to reach an appropriate height. I prefer to plant white spruce trees

as sight barriers because deer usually do not browse on spruce. Plant at least two or three rows and space the trees just a yard or two apart so you can attain your goal more quickly. The trees can always be thinned later if needed.

What To PlantI’ve been experimenting with

various food plots brands and mixtures for more than a decade. All have attracted deer. Some have worked better than others depending on rainfall amounts, soil type and competition from weeds. Certain plant varieties attract deer only in the fall, while others supply high protein forage in spring, summer, fall and even winter to a certain degree.

In my years of experimentation I’ve determined clover is the single best plant for deer food plots. If I had only one food plot, I would definitely plant it with clover. I’ve had good luck with Imperial Whitetail Clover which is available from the Whitetail Institute of North America.

My second choice for food plot planting is a brassicas mix. My favorite is Bio Logic Maximum. Brassicas are broadleaved plants that look and smell like cabbage. They are extremely high in protein and are very palatable. The downside to brassicas is that deer

Mowing food plots helps to deter broadleaf weeds and also encourages new growth which is more nourishing and

palatable to deer.

generally ignore the plants until after several hard frosts, and thus they do not provide nutrition for deer during spring and summer. But, starting in late October, deer flock to my brassicas plots. The shift is timely since by then my clover plots are usually eaten to the ground or are starting to go dormant.

There is a wealth of deer food plot

information available on the Web. Check out www.whitetailinstitute.com and www.plantbiologic.com.

Bill Marchel is a wildlife and outdoors photographer

and writer who lives near Fort Ripley. His work has appeared in many regional and national

publications and he writes a monthly column for the

Brainerd Dispatch. He can be reached at [email protected]

18Taste of the Wild

Central Minnesota’s Brainerd Lakes Area has long been known as an outdoor paradise destination. With hundreds of lakes and miles of rolling forest, those who fish and hunt have gathered here for centuries. Today this area still offers some of the most diverse bounties anywhere in the Midwest. What has changed through the decades is that once these bounties and the way they were prepared were the norm, today they are more of a specialty or delicacy.

Just a few decades ago these morsels of the wild, together with homegrown vegetables and store bought seasoning was the staple of a hard working Minnesotan’s diet. Though these recipes still exist, they seem to surface only when outdoor enthusiasts get together. Our intent was to solicit these unknown chefs and ask them to share their recipes and publish their mouthwatering gems for everyones’ enjoyment.

Our goal was to keep these Outdoor Traditions from disappearing. Our desire was the offer all of you this tremendous collection of wild game recipes to stimulate and enlighten your taste buds. Look for more amazing recipes in each edition of our Outdoor Traditions magazine and stop by the Brainerd Dispatch to get your own copy of the Taste of the Wild, Northwoods Cooking Traditions Cookbook today!

Honey Fried WalleyePrep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 4-7 min-

Ingredients:1 egg, beaten1 tsp. honey1 cup coarsely crushed soda crackers1/3 cup all purpose flour

1/4 tsp. salt1/4 tsp. pepper1 1/2 lbs. walleye filets, skin removedvegetable oil

In a small mixing bowl combine egg and honey. In a shallow dish, combine crackers, flour, salt and pepper. Dip fillets first in egg mixture, then dredge in cracker mixture to coat. In 12 inch skillet, heat 1/8 inch oil over medium heat. Add fillets. Fry for 4-7 minutes or until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towel lined plate. Serve with lemon and additional honey for drizzling if desired.

Recipe provided by Rose Zak (Brainerd, MN)

“Salmon” Northern FiletsPrep Time: 12-24 hours Cook Time: 5 hours

Ingredients:7 lbs. Northern filets 1 can tomato soup1 cup white vinegar

1 cup canola oil1 tbsp. salt10-15 drops liquid smoke

Put soup, vinegar, oil, salt and liquid smoke inta a gallon ziploc bag. Add northern filets. Turn to coat filets. Refrigerate overnight, turn-ing occasionally.

In the morning, pour all into a large pan lined with aluminum foil. Bake at 250 for 5 hours, covered.

Use as a snack with crackers or use in your favorite salmon spread recipe. You can half or quarter this recipe depending on how many filets you have.

Recipe provided by Cindy Koons (Riverton, MN)

Only $20.00

Do you have an wild game

recipe that you want to share with others? If so, please send the recipe to [email protected] with the subject being “TOTW” and we will let you know if

yours will be published. Other submissions can be found by

going to brainerddispatch.com/outdoor_traditions.

Hit the Trails

It’s official! Minnesota is the “Best Trails State” in the entire country, and has been awarded the official title by the American Trails group. Most Minnesotans won’t be surprised by this at all, as Minnesota has an outstanding statewide system of trails, with successful partnerships with scores of trail users, trail advisory groups, and support groups.

Since there is a good chance that you’ll be tempted to venture down a trail or two this summer, we wanted to help you stay make the most out of your adventure and also stay safe along the way!

Hiking Safety TipsYou are responsible for your

own safety! Hiking areas have their own inherent risks and hikers assume complete responsibility for their own safety. Rescue is not a certainty! Some things to keep in mind when you’re planning your hike: • Stay on designated roads and

trails, or in permitted areas.• Hike with friends. It’s more

fun and you have someone to help you if you need it.

• Leave a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person.

• Allow for bad weather and the possibility you may be forced to spend a night outdoors

unexpectedly.• Learn about pests

such as deer ticks and poison ivy.

Deer TicksDeer ticks, also known as

blacklegged ticks, are just one of thirteen known tick species in Minnesota. They are most common in the east and central areas of the state and are found in hardwood forests and wooded and brushy areas. Deer ticks are potential carriers of Lyme disease, human anaplasmosis and babesiosis.

Risk timeframe

Primarily risks are from mid-May through mid-July when the smaller nymph stage of the deer tick is feeding. Risk is present, but lower, in early spring and again in the fall (late September-October) when the adult stage of the deer tick is active.

Deer Tick BitesPrevention

Check and re-check for ticks when you are in tick-infested areas.• When in deer tick habitat,

walk in the center of the trail to avoid picking up ticks from

grass and brush.• Wear light colored clothing so

ticks will be more visible.• Create a barrier to ticks by

tucking pants into socks or boots and tuck long sleeved shirt into pants.

• Use a repellent containing DEET or permethrin, and carefully follow the directions on the container.

• After being outdoors in tick habitat, get out of your clothes immediately, do a complete body check, shower and vigorously towel dry. Wash your clothes immediately as to not spread any ticks around your living area.

• Pets should also be checked for ticks.

Tick RemovalThe risk of getting a tick-

borne disease is small if the tick is removed soon after it becomes attached. Deer ticks must remain attached one to two days to transmit Lyme disease, and about one day for the other diseases.

Take precautions when in tick habitat, but don’t panic if you find a deer tick on you. Not all ticks are infected, and prompt tick removal can prevent illness.• Use tweezers to grasp the tick

close to its mouth.• Gently and S-L-O-W-L-Y pull

the tick straight outward.• To avoid contact with the

bacteria, if present, do not 20

Hit the Trails

grass and brush.• Wear light colored clothing so

ticks will be more visible.• Create a barrier to ticks by

tucking pants into socks or boots and tuck long sleeved shirt into pants.

• Use a repellent containing DEET or permethrin, and carefully follow the directions on the container.

• After being outdoors in tick habitat, get out of your clothes immediately, do a complete body check, shower and vigorously towel dry. Wash your clothes immediately as to not spread any ticks around your living area.

• Pets should also be checked for ticks.

Tick RemovalThe risk of getting a tick-

borne disease is small if the tick is removed soon after it becomes attached. Deer ticks must remain attached one to two days to transmit Lyme disease, and about one day for the other diseases.

Take precautions when in tick habitat, but don’t panic if you find a deer tick on you. Not all ticks are infected, and prompt tick removal can prevent illness.• Use tweezers to grasp the tick

close to its mouth.• Gently and S-L-O-W-L-Y pull

the tick straight outward.• To avoid contact with the

bacteria, if present, do not

squeeze the ticks’ body.• Wash the area and apply an

antiseptic to the bite.• Watch for early signs and

symptoms of Lyme disease.

Western Poison IvyIdentification

Western poison ivy is a smallish, nonclimbing shrub usually about knee high, with a single stem and only a few stubby branches or no branches at all.

Leaves: The leaves can be relatively large but always with three leaflets. Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) and woodbine (P. vitacea) are similar but have 5 leaflets instead of 3. Jack-in-the-pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) and the trilliums (Trillium spp.) do have 3 leaflets, but they have nonwoody stems. It may be enough to keep in mind that western poison ivy has a short woody stem and 3 leaflets.

About the poisonThe sap contains a toxic oily

compound (3-n-pentadecyl-catechol) that is found in the leaves, flowers, stems, and roots. If any

portion of the plant is bruised or broken, the poison may exude onto the surface, which is how people typically come in contact with it. It is initially a clear liquid, but it turns into a black gummy substance in a few hours and can remain toxic for an indefinite period, reportedly for several hundred years.

Contact may be direct between plant and bare skin, or the poison may travel on the fur of a dog, camping equipment, clothing, or other intermediary. The compound is not volatile, so it is not normally transmitted through the air, although it can be carried

as droplets on particles of ash in the smoke of burning plants. Such particles are sometimes inhaled, causing serious problems, or they can settle on surfaces and be picked up from there.

Very few individuals are immune, and those that appear so could easily lose their immunity unexpectedly. The poison is absorbed by the skin almost immediately, although symptoms may not appear for 12 to 24 hours or in some cases several days. Washing the exposed skin with soap and cold water (warm water speeds absorption through the skin) probably will not prevent symptoms from appearing unless done with 1 to 3 minutes after exposure, but washing can remove residual poison and prevent it from being spread. The fluid in the blisters does not contain the poison and cannot spread the rash. A number of animal species regularly eat the fruit and leaves with no apparent harmful effects; in fact, it appears that only humans are susceptible.

Memory LaneCamp Ripley Hunt

There are always those experiences in life that you will never forget. An imprint is left in your memory and the details of that time remain crisp and clear forever. For me, that experience was hunting with my dad for the first time.

Getting that letter in the mail and reading the congratulatory message was almost overwhelming. Dad and I decided to apply for the Camp Ripley archery hunt in the hopes of being chosen within the next couple of years, not right away the first time. This wasn’t like every other hunt that I had been on before; this was my first opportunity to go hunting with just my dad and nobody else. My dad is my role model when it comes to all things outdoors. Even though he had not gone hunting with me before, he had always nurtured my passion for hunting, fishing and camping. I would always read his Ducks Unlimited magazines and Outdoor News tabloids when he would get them in the mail and would talk about the different stories we read. I couldn’t believe that I was finally going to go deer hunting with him!

Being a twin, there were not very many opportunities to spend with alone with either parent. I had also recently had my third reconstructive surgery on my shoulders, so hunting is definitely not something that I take for granted! This was my opportunity to show my dad what I had taken from all of the lessons he had taught me throughout the years.

We arrived at Camp Ripley early on Friday afternoon so that we could set up camp and get ready for Saturday. Once dusk fell upon us, we figured it was the perfect time to get a fire

My dad, Larry Vealetzek, with his first trophy buck that he took with his compound bow. I have kept this picture with me even after moving away for college. 22

Memory Lane

My first bow- a TenPoint Titan TL-7 crossbow. Due to multiple shoulder reconstructions, this will be my hunting weapon of choice for years to come.

going. Within 30 minutes we had hunters from all of the surrounding sites flocking over to our fire! We ended up finding out that not many read the fine print that stated you could have a fire as long as it was contained. Our Friday night ended up being the most entertaining of the two and we heard all kinds of different stories from veteran hunters that had been coming to Camp Ripley for years and years.

Dad and I were also able to talk more about hunting and I actually

told him about a few of the different memorable hunts that I had been able to go on since leaving home.

Even though we didn’t shoot a deer at Camp Ripley, I will always remember our first hunt together. It means so much to me that my dad has always taken the time to teach not only my brother, but also me how to hunt and fish and truly appreciate the outdoors. Now it will be my turn to ignite that same passion in my younger sister and also my own children one day.

I called my dad the instant that I saw my first deer drop. Nothing can compare to

that experience!

24Outdoor Gear

The new Killzone® is a 2 blade rear-deploying broadhead that packs a devastating 2” cutting diameter. The field-point accurate Killzone® uses NAP’s unique spring-clip design which ensures your blades won’t open in flight or in your quiver. There are no o-rings or rubber bands to worry about.

The Killzone® is available in three different models including a cut-on-contact tip, a bone-crushing Trophy Tip, or the Deep Six compatible model. No matter which version you choose, the Killzone® ensures that you will always Hunt with Confidence.

Unfold added comfort for you or your guests with a Coleman® Twin Airbed Cot with Side Table and 4D Battery Pump. The versatile design allows you to sleep indoors or outdoors in elevated support with an airbed and cot, or separate the two for double the sleeping space. However you use it, the durable steel frame unfolds easily, and a side table with cup holder keeps a drink and other personal items close. When the fun is done the included 4D battery pump also helps to quickly deflate the bed, and the cot folds up inside a carry bag for compact transport and storage.

We redesigned the CGR’s blank to add more versatility and a slightly more moderate action, while retaining the silky-smooth performance that’s generating the recent resurgence in glass fly-rods’ popularity. First and foremost, these are trout rods for those who enjoy a slower-paced casting stroke. You’ll be able to feel the rod loading and unloading with every cast. The slightly transparent T-glass blank gives these rods a distinct look. A 20” trophy mark above the handle allows easy measuring. First-class components include high-grade cork handles with model-specific grips, including cigar grips with knurled slide rings.

Killzone®Broadhead

Coleman®Twin Airbed Cot

Cabelas®CGT Fiberglass Fly Rod

utdoor Gear

Your Best Shot

Do you have an amazing photo that you would like to see published in the next edition of Outdoor Traditions? We would love to see it! Please send files or photos with subject “YBS” to [email protected] by August 1st, 2013. You will be notified if your photo will be published. All other submissions can be found at brainerddispatch.com/outdoor_traditions. Minimum file size required is 2MB; visit brainerddispatch.com/outdoor_traditions for specific requirements. 25

Your Best Shot

To set up this shot I put 10 pounds of crushed corn and just waited to see what would show up. I was thinking maybe a deer would show up, but instead we started getting the rose-breasted grosbeaks. So I laid down on the ground with my large 200mm lens with a 1.4 teleconverter. With my Olympus S5 it gives me the ability to double the length of the lenses with its 4/3rds system. I was shooting from 10 yards away with the equivalent of a 12x magnification.

Tim Bogenshutz Publisher of the

Brainerd Dispatch and avid outdoor

photographer.

26Summer Forecast

Summer ForecastJune7-9 Take-a-Kid Fishing Weekend

14 Elk Hunt Lottery Deadline

July15 Crow Hunting (2nd Season)

August16 Camp Ripley Archery Hunt Application Deadline Prairie Chicken Hunt Lottery Deadline

September1 Mourning Dove season Bear season Early Canada Goose season Snipe and Rail Hunting season

5 Antlerless Deer and Special Hunt Lottery Deadline

9 Smallmouth Bass - 2013 Catch and Release season only (statewide)

14 Small Game - Rabbits, Squirrels season Sharptailed Grouse season Small Game - Grouse, Gray Partridge Deer Hunt - Archery season Youth Waterfowl Hunt Day

15 Sandhill Crane season-NW zone Stream Trout (Fall) SE - 2013 season Catch and Release season only

21 Waterfowl season opener-Tentative

21-22 Take-a-Kid Hunting weekend 28 Fall Turkey season

Grass carp near Sartell is northernmost find for Asian carpAn angler bowfishing on the Mississippi River north of Sartell last week shot a 25-pound grass carp, an exotic species that previously has been found only much further south in Minnesota, including lower portions of the Mississippi, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Shingobee Bay public water access will be closed through June 28 for improvementsThe Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will expand and improve the Shingobee Bay public water access site south of Walker, beginning Monday, May 13. The site, located off Highway 371 in an old rest area, will be closed during construction. The DNR expects it to reopen by Friday, June 28.

Apply now for Minnesota elk huntHunters have until June 14 to apply for one of 23 elk licenses offered this year by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

DNR initiates public input process on Leech Lake special walleye regulationThe Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is initiating the public input process on potential walleye regulation changes on Leech Lake.The DNR is considering relaxing harvest regulations for the 2014 fishing season. The current 18- to 26-inch protected slot limit was put in place March 1, 2005 and extended on March 1, 2011. Modification to a 20- to 26-inch protected slot limit would become effective March 1, 2014.

New fishing license options cater to angler interestsMinnesota anglers who fish a lot or a little can hook newly created licenses tailored to their desires. The new license options include a 72-hour fishing license, a three-year license and a reduced price annual license for youth ages 16 and 17, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Read the full News Releases by going to news.dnr.state.mn.us












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