Hooked On Minnesota

07/31/2026

Hang the banners!

After 3 years, and countless hours of casting and trolling, I finally got my Muskie!

Last week my buddy and I hired a guide for our annual fishing trip. On day one, conditions were less than ideal but we started casting and moving fish within the first half hour. A fish came in hot to the 8 but broke off after the first turn. After casting for a bit longer in the heat we switched to trolling.

About an hour in the first rod went off, providing us with the first fish of the day and my first muskie. A beautiful Bard up 34 in. After a quick pit tag and a photo, we released her healthy and happy.

I ended up getting two more that day, and a fourth on day two. It goes to show that sometimes you just have to stick it out and keep trying. All of the work was worth it. Shout out to John E Yevlis for doing it with me, and to Taylor Owner/Operator of Musky Guarantee Guide Service LLC for making it happen.

If anyone is looking for a guide in the Wisconsin Northwoods I highly recommend giving him a call.

Stay Hooked!

06/21/2026

Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there! Remember to take your kids fishing—time on the water is not wasted.

06/11/2026

Well, the Minnesota muskie opener was fishy, but not the species one would think.

Spending time on Lake Mille Lacs this past weekend with my good friend John E Yevlis made me realize something: I have been far too focused on catching a fish, rather than the real reason I love fishing—getting to enjoy the water with good friends and family. It is time to catch up and chat, or just sit in silence in anticipation of the next bite.

That said, the fishing was nothing less than phenomenal! We ran through 10 dozen leeches in 3 days. The bobber bite was on fire! The fish were holding at 15 to 20 feet and were on the chew. A float and a 1/16 oz jig tipped with a leech was irresistible to the gravel lizards, and we even landed a few smallmouths too!

It's going to be a great summer!

02/15/2026

The family and I jumped in the truck and headed North for a quiet weekend in Outing Minnesota. In true fashion I had to bring the gear and see what was lurking in the small 31 acre lake.

As soon as we got unpacked and situated for the weekend, I grabbed the auger and started drilling The fish were spread throughout the basin with the takers wanting it just below the ice. (2-3 ft) A red euro larvae on a small tungsten jig was the ticket.

I hope everyone was able to get outside and take advantage of this weather, and enjoyed Valentine's Day.

Stay hooked!

02/10/2026

What a great weekend, the weather wasn't freezing and the Sportsmans show was in town. It is always fun walking around chatting with folks and seeing what's new. After checking things out we decided to grab the dogs and a handful of tip ups and hit the lake. Fishing was slow, not a whole lot happening mid-day. Either way we really enjoyed getting outside and soaking up the sun.

01/24/2026

This cold is absolutely killing me! I think it's time to fill the tanks and go catch some fish!

12/31/2025

What a year! Running all over the state, fishing trips in Wisconsin with family and friends, so many unforgettable moments.

In my neverending quest to catch a muskie, I attended the MN muskie expo for the first time. Looking forward to going again. Such a cool experience, a ton of incredible lure makers.

I'm still on the hunt for that 4 footer.

I pinch fished in my first walleye tournament and helped a good friend with his proposal. Both a couple of truly memorable experiences. Travis Sorokie and Stephanie Lawson it was an honor to be a part of your special moment. Congratulations once again!

The ice season is well underway and has been great so far, just waiting for a giant! It's been too long...

I look forward to the new year, and the adventures ahead.

Stay Hooked!

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope everyone's day is blessed with fun, family and new fishing gear! Stay hooked!

12/12/2025