Early Season Walleye Tips from a North-Country Guide
Crane Lake Area Early Season Walleye Fishing Tips For Depth, Temperature, and Targeting Getting bite in May can be a challenge for anglers in the northern half of the walleye’s range, as every year can be a bit different depending on ice-out, weather conditions, and what it does to the impending spawn. Even the spawn itself can have variation, being mere days to long weeks, again given a host of climatic and environmental variables. Yet, there are guides that produce…Learn MoreDay Cruising in Crane Lake
Day cruising is about enjoying one day or part of a day on the water without necessarily having a destination or a specific goal/activity in mind. That said, fishing, waterskiing, sailing, gunkholing (like a Sunday drive exploring coves and beaches) and picnicking are perfect ways to cruise on a boat and they are fairly specific adventures. Are you hoping to go day cruising on a boat? Here’s what to expect, what to bring and what kind of boats are perfect…Learn MoreIdentifying Trees in the Crane Lake Wilderness
It is time to have a little fun with trees. Trees are critical to our environment and our way of life. From the air we breathe to the materials we build houses with. So, we will take a look at them in a couple of different ways and maybe we will learn something big and small. Crane Lake is located on the Canadian border within Superior National Forest. Superior National Forest is the 6th largest National forest in the United…Learn MoreElusive Northern Lights in Crane Lake
Whether your focus is to see the elusive Northern Lights or simply gaze at the incredible amount of stars that can be seen due to lack of light pollution, Crane Lake and Voyageurs National Park is a great place to start. The Aurora Borealis or “Northern Lights” are a spectacle not everyone has the chance to see. The phenomena is caused by disturbances in the magnetosphere caused by solar wind and storms. The charged particles appear in the night sky…Learn MoreUp North Authors & Hot Beverages to Beat the Winter Blues
The holidays are over. It’s time to settle back into your routine and maybe just relax a bit. While the holidays are a time of joy and are meant to be relaxing, it can also be hectic at times and you may have found yourself needing a break from the break. Sit back and relax with this list of books and warm beverages. Recommended Reads: Reflections from the North Country by Sigurd Olson- Sigurd Olson spent most of his life…Learn MoreSnowmobile Safety in Voyageurs National Park
It’s officially snowmobile season, folks. Before you hit the snowmobile trails at Voyageurs National Park, there are a few things to keep in mind whether you are on your first trip ever or have been riding for years. Along with all winter activities there are a few added safety tips you will want to keep in mind. The trails around Crane Lake have been packed and cleared and the Park Service has started staking the lakes. You can pick up…Learn MoreCrane Lake MN Holiday Vacations
The winter holiday season is a great time to head outdoors in Crane Lake, MN for some casual hiking and snowshoeing. Start a new holiday tradition by hitting the trails with your family and friends Grab your snowshoes, cross country skis, or a fishing pole (and ice auger) and head out! If you are planning a trip to Voyageurs this winter and want a more relaxing mode of transportation than a snowmobile, give your own two feet a try. The…Learn MoreATV Update: New Steel Bridge over the Vermilion River
Over 300 people attended the ATV Ride and Rally weekend held here in Crane Lake Sept 21-22, to celebrate the completion of a new steel bridge over the Vermilion River. The bridge was funded by the IRRRB and will be an important trail connector for year-round use in Voyageur Country. This bridge greatly enhances riding opportunities in our area! We are so happy for the support of the IRRRB, ATVAM and our local ATV Club for making it happen! We cannot display this gallery Photo by Jim Lund/AllTrails[/caption] It's hidden deep within the sprawling Superior National Forest. The trail may be out of the way, but it's well worth the journey. As you walk, the…Learn MoreVermilion Gorge Trail – Trip Advisor Reviews
These Trip Advisor reviews are helpful If you are considering a hike on the Vermilion Gorge Trail. The trailhead is located across from the Voyagaire Lodge. Not to be confused with Vermilion Falls If you are on or near crane lake this is a must see. Come prepared and you can hike up and around the gorge. The trails are well marked and can be as long or short as you choose. Pick a nice day. Nice Hike Great…Learn MoreCrane Lake Wolves
Wolves are elusive creatures not often seen by many and we still don't know a lot about their behavior. A team of researchers in Voyageurs National Park has been doing some incredible work tracking wolf behavior. Take a look at the link below to learn more about these extraordinary animals that you might just catch a glimpse of if you come to visit in any season! Here are two great articles on wolves that live in Crane Lake…Learn MoreFishing Crane Lake by MidWest Outdoors TV
A great video from MidWest Outdoors. Watch and learn everything you need to know for mid-summer fishing on Crane Lake. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5U9dpm-nfILearn MoreGet your boat ready: A seasonal approach
Spring If you’ve done a thorough job winterizing your boat in the fall then your spring pre-launch prep isn’t so bad. You’ll want to replace and test your electronics, and wash and wax the hull. Aluminum boats or those stored in the water in a slip or on a mooring ball need bottom paint. Scrape and sand the bottom, and apply the anti-fouling paint as air temperatures dictate. Charge and install your battery, add fresh gas, and check your navigational…Learn MoreTop 5 Safety Tips for Snowshoeing
Many of us preach the ‘if you can walk, you can snowshoe’ mantra to anyone who will listen, and we’re right…for the most part. Compared to skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing has a lower barrier of entry. This means great things for those of us who want to try something new or want a low-impact winter sport, but also creates a natural inclination to be slightly less prepared for what a day of snowshoeing may throw at us. We are quick…Learn MorePlan A Debt-Free Vacation
SAVE OVER-TIME Play the long game when planning and saving for a vacation. Put a portion of every paycheck aside to build up a reserve of cash for your trip. Even saving $25 or $50 a month will help make your trip more affordable. Make sure the amount you're setting aside will provide you with enough vacation cash, too. Consider opening a separate savings account and automating regular transfers to help you save without thinking about it. MAKE A FRIENDLY…Learn MoreCrane Lake Fall Tours
Visit Crane Lake this fall and view all the best of nature's colors. Scenic drives courtesy of Lake Vermilion. Read More.Learn MoreDestination Polaris Highlights Crane Lake ATV Trails
Destination Polaris visited Crane Lake to share the secrets of the great ATV trails. About Destination Polaris: From sand dunes to mountain peaks, canyon rides to mud pits, Destination Polaris is your authority for all terrain travel. Join hosts, Jared Christie and Lindsey Hayes each week on Fox Sports Networks as they uncover the world's top riding destinations. Plus, Project 'X' turns an every day machine into the the biggest, baddest, UTV vehicles on the market. Read more about Crane…Learn MoreHow To Keep Kids Cool During Extreme Heat
It is important to keep your kids cool in extreme summer heat. Vacations are a blast until someone gets overheated or worse, gets heat stroke. Here are some ways to help cool down your children and avoid heat sickness. Most resorts offer some type of sunshade either over chairs or tables for guests to use while on the beach. It's a good idea to grab one of these spots early in the day to make sure you have protection from…Learn MoreFall Boating/Fishing Safety
The leaves are turning colors, there’s a chill in the air, kids are back in school, and fewer people are out on the water. It’s a perfect time to go fishing or hunting! Before you go, prepare yourself for the changing conditions. Here are some things to consider: Water Temperature: Fall days can be balmy and bright, but the water is getting colder. If you spend any significant time in water even as warm as 60°F, you can be in serious…Learn MoreAl Linder – Tips On Fall Fishing
Fall can be a great time for fishing in Minnesota. Larger fishing boats and more sophisticated fishing techniques have lured more anglers out on lakes and rivers in the fall. Mild temperatures and a backdrop of fall color add to the appeal. But changing water temperatures in the fall trigger changes in fish location and behavior, and require some changes in fishing tactics. Hiring a fishing guide can help anglers with the ins and outs particular to fall fishing, and…Learn MoreHow To Fillet A Walleye
This is a good video showing how to fillet those delicious walleye. Cleaning (or filleting) walleye does not have to be a tricky thing to do. And here we even show you how to get an extra tasty treat from the walleye! As always, good fishin'! http://www.thundermistfishingtips.com https://youtu.be/Xl0jyQdOlgsLearn MoreFishing Is Good For Relationships
Realize that when you take your kids fishing you are actually doing something very important. Adults can use the fishing experience to teach kids much more than how to catch a fish. A father-son or father-daughter fishing trip leaves more time for a one-on-one chat than most other activities. You can focus all your attention on your child. Real conversations - The quiet stillness of a lake and the relaxing nature of waiting for fish to bite fosters plenty of conversation,…Learn MoreBeach Activities
Its good to have a list of easy activities for when kids get tired or bored. Here is a list of favorite beach games that anyone can play. Bring an inflatable pool for kids under two. Fill with a little water and have fun in a safer way. Have kids collect shells and rocks and then later have them sort by size, type, and color. Play Pictionary in the sand. You can use; word cards for older kids and pictures…Learn MoreFavorite Walleye Recipes
Honey-Fried Walleye A favorite walleye recipes, never have fish leftovers again. Honey gives the coating a deliciously different twist. https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/honey-fried-walleye/ Herb-Crusted Walleye This is a quick and easy dinner solution that is a big hit with families. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/227987/herb-crusted-walleye/ Best Fried Walleye This is the recipe my dad has been using for 25 years. It's light and clean-tasting because there's no sense in masking the naturally delicious flavor of such an awesome Canadian delicacy! No tartar sauce needed! https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/223227/best-fried-walleye/ Baked Walleye…Learn MorePaper Work For Boarder Crossing With Your Kids Friends, Or With Your Child As A Single Parent
Border security personnel are more vigilant due to the rise in child abductions. It's best for children to have their own passports, sometimes a birth certificate is not enough. You should also carry a Child Travel Consent form from the child's parents or legal guardians that include: *Address and telephone numbers *Information about the minor including their name, birthplace and, passport information. *Allergy and special needs information *Info about parent or guardian, including custody info, passport details, and legal name…Learn MoreProtecting Your Childs Skin While On Vacation
Anything that can block the UV rays from the sun is going to protect your skin and so it's important to try to cover up as much as you can and still be comfortable to protect these large areas of skin. If you're going to be on the beach or you're going to be in a pool, you want what we call sun-protected swimwear. It's basically something that you can wear in the water and you can also wear before…Learn MoreVacations – Taking Along Your Kids Friends: What You Need To Know
It seems like a win-win -- invite your child's best friend to join you on vacation so he or she has a built-in playmate. But before you offer, consider the pros and cons. Choose the right friend - usually a well-behaved kid who shares your child's temperament and interests How well do you know the friend's parents? Do you share parenting styles and values? How will you discipline? Consider the costs - Are you able to pay for an extra person, larger…Learn MoreTips For Catching Midsummer Walleye
By: Keith 'Catfish' Sutton Catching walleye in midsummer requires study and practice. Here are 5 tips you will learn from reading this great article. * how to follow the fish *finding the correct depth to fish over weedbeds *how to troll for suspenders *Fishing shallow, rock-strewn cover at night *River walleyes at night http://www.worldfishingnetwork.com/stories/post/5-best-tips-for-catching-walleye-in-summerLearn MoreKids Happiness – Vacations Have Long Acting Impact
"Family holidays are valued by children, both in the moment and for long afterward in their memory," psychologist and best-selling author Oliver James explained to The Telegraph. "It's all about talking nonsense with your parents, sharing an ice cream and moments of time in which your interests are genuinely taken into account. So if you're going to spend money on something, it's pretty clear which option makes more sense." And get this: Travelling with your kids can also be beneficial to their brain…Learn MoreHealthy Vacation Snack Ideas
Keep it easy! We all plan on making healthy meals to bring on our resort getaways, but in reality, we never have the time or the energy. Pack easy to transport snacks and everyone will be happy. If your flying to your destination, stop at a grocery store near your resort. Most grocery stores carry a variety of fruits, veggies and dip. Here are a few ideas to get you started VEGGIES Cauliflower florets Broccolie florets Baby carrots Celery sticks…Learn MoreKeeping Your Bait Alive
Aerators This is an essential tool for keeping any aquatic bait alive during the summer. There are tons of aerators on the market. The key to choosing the right aerator is making sure you look at the amount of water it can aerate. Also, adding ice to your water will help protect baitfish, however, only a few cubes because adding too much can cause baitfish to go into shock. Bedding Making sure your worms have good bedding will give them the strength…Learn More7 Tips For Freezing Fish
Saving all that precious meat does come with some perils, as most fish–whether frozen whole or as fillets–are especially prone to going bad in the freezer. But with some care, and by following these tips, anglers are guaranteed a wonderful meal of nearly fresh fish months down the road. 1. Remember the old adage, “Quality in equals quality out.” Take care of your catch from the moment it leaves the water. Don’t let it flop around on the ground or…Learn MoreMidWest Outdoors – Crane Lake Adventure for Smallmouth
https://youtu.be/TrlVnM8Yfyc Roger Cormier from Midwest outdoors. I am blessed in my line of work where from time to time I get to take my boys fishing and do some shows and this is one of those segments. We're up in northern Minnesota and Crane Lake doing some multi-species fishing up here. We're starting out by fishing some bass, it's a beautiful afternoon up here and man you want to talk about fun for the kids, it's top water bass fishing experience.…Learn MoreLoon Facts
On a North Woods lake in summer, loons stick out conspicuously as large, tuxedoed birds swimming about in the middle of the lake. They can be very vocal and easy to locate, as the yodeling of one loon will often elicit a chorus response from other loons in the area. The Common Loon swims underwater to catch fish, propelling itself with its feet. It swallows most of its prey underwater. The loon has sharp, rearward-pointing projections on the roof of…Learn MoreHow To Properly Use Sunscreen
Far more important than the sunscreen you choose is the way you apply it. An SPF 50 sunscreen applied haphazardly provides much less protection than an SPF 30 (or SPF 15) sunscreen applied conscientiously. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure. This is true of all sunscreens. Use massively more sunscreen than you think you should. A rule of thumb for a person wearing shorts and a T-shirt is to use at least an ounce (visualize a full shotglass), and make…Learn MoreKayak Safety
Be sure to try everything so you know how to use it all. Some of these items are simple to use, others are a little more complicated: PFD: Your personal flotation device should fit snugly and always be on—and there’s never a kayak outing where you can forgo the PFD. Whistle: Attach it to your PFD. One blast is for attention; three blasts is “help.” If you forget how many, just keep blasting away until a rescuer arrives. Communication Device: If…Learn MoreHow To Use A Compass
Finding your way back out of the wilderness won’t always be simple tasks. That’s why a magnetized compass and a paper map—and the navigational knowhow to use them—are part of the Ten Essentials. The ten essentials was established back in 1933 to help people be prepared when venturing into the great outdoors. It's also recommended that you know how to read a paper map in case your cell phone loses power or is unable to get a good signal. This is…Learn MoreInternational Wolf Center
Tripadvisor has over 500 reviews by vacationers who have visited the International Wolf Center. Out of the 500 reviews over 300 of them have given the attraction an excellent review. January 2018 Laurie said: Great family experience!!! Our family did the "Wolf Family Rendezvous" and we stayed overnight at the wolf center. It was an amazing experience!! My two girls ages 5 and 6 loved it and we all learned so much! It was an amazing experience to see the…Learn More26 Miles To Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary
Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary is only a 30 minute drive from the Crane Lake area. It's well worth a day trip to see the bear in their natural habitat. When bears emerge from their dens they wake up SO hungry & thirsty! Some have gone 6-7 months without eating and drinking. As they begin to wake up from hibernating, it is a bit of a process. It takes them 2-3 weeks before they start to feel normal again and before…Learn MoreTips For Better Vacation Photo’s
Great vacation photo's help remind you of the fun you had and assist in telling your story. How many times have you come home and looked at your photo's to find many were out of focus or even worse, your favorite experiences were not even recorded. Check out the following vacation photo tips to help ensure all your memories were captured. Research your vacation destination and record all the places where you want to capture pictures. Ask the locals if there…Learn MoreHow To Fish On Unfamilar Lakes
You've made your reservation and are looking forward to your fishing vacation on Crane Lake. If you've never fished Crane Lake, here is a great article that will help you figure out how to fish on an unfamilar lake. Finding out as much information about the body of water is the first thing on my to-do list, so finding any available maps is puzzle piece number one. Check the DNR website, bait shops, or on line map stores. Navionics also…Learn MoreSaftey Tips When Towing Tubes & Water Devices
Resort vacations offer plenty of activities for their guests. Favorite vacation activities involves swimming, boating, skiing and tubing. Many resorts offer boat and ski rental. It's important to know all the water safety procedures before loading the boat with kids and toys. If your not familar with the rules or are not used to driving a boat, it's best to bring someone with experience along. Get state specific regulations and take an saftey course if possible. Here are a few saftey…Learn MoreBest Vacation Reads For Men
You want pacy and compelling reads but ones that leave you feeling a little smarter. THE IDIOT - ELIF BATUMAN Turkish-American Harvard student navigating life, love and literature. THE SECRET LIFE - ANDREW O'HAGEN three "elusive" individuals' lives in this exploration of identity in the age of the dark web. THE MINISTRY OF UTMOST HAPPINESS - ARUNDHATI ROY Set in a world where humans and animals have been "broken by the world we live in and then mended by ...…Learn MoreNostalgia Vacations Are Good For You
Do you have memories of places you visited as a child? Were you one of the lucky kids who's family went on a trip every summer or maybe enjoyed a yearly trip to a classic Minnesota resort? Do you still recall what it felt like when you arrived at your destination, the names of the friends you made, or maybe even still connect with on social media? Have you shared these places with your own children or provided them with…Learn MoreCampfire Stories For Young Kids
Here are some fun stories that give your kids a bit of a scare, but should not cause them wakeful nights. Dem Bones - Captain Kidd and his pirates Cow's Head - Involves a daughter, a stepmothet and a cow head Haunted - A mild story about ghosts who love to bake and dance Yellow Ribbon - For older kids, Jane wears a yellow ribbon around her neck, find out why. The Hairy Toe - Not too scarey, an old…Learn MoreExploring The Minnesota Northwood With Children
The Crane Lake Area offers many opportunites for outdoor adventure. While vacationing in the area, get the kids into the wilderness and teach them ways to enjoy nature. Pack a special lunch and a blanket and find a pretty area to enjoy your meal Bring a bird book and start making a life list of birds you see along your hike Encourge everyone to stop and listen now and then. What noises do they hear. Examine the plants and trees.…Learn MoreTurn Your Hike Into An Antler Hunt
Looking for something to do in late winter and early spring? Try your hand at finding shed antlers. It's great fun for people who like to get out in nature and enjoy the fresh air. Key Takeaways: Learn the best time to start antler hunting Know where the bucks are bedding Slow down, it's better to cover half the ground and take your time Look within 20 to 30 yards and not further. Keep checking the ground right in front…Learn MoreTeaching Kids To Fish
Fishing can be one of the most benefical sports that you teach your young children. A love of fishing can help promote a genuine love for the great outdoors. If you've already made your vacation reservation you can check the resort website for lake info. If you need more information call the resort owner and ask if fish can be caught from the dock or if one needs to rent a boat. A little research beforehand can help determine what gear…Learn MoreVacation Destination – Surviving The Car Trip With Kids
You've planned a beautiful resort vacation up north and it's finally check in day! The car is packed and everyone is egarly anticipating the vacation ahead. Hopefully everyone had a great nights sleep as sleep deprevation leads to frazzled nerves and unsafe driving. Here are a few tips that will help keep everyone in a good mood. Pack a bag with car essentials, hats, extra clothes, sun screen and snacks so you dont have to dig thru the suitecase Prepare…Learn MoreHouseboat Vacations
Houseboating Vacations can be a good option for families looking to try something different. Welcome to the fun and adventure of houseboating! If you're new to boating and everything that goes into planning a houseboat trip, then you’ve come to the right place. Houseboating 101 provides a solid introduction to the safe operation of a houseboat, some good tips on planning your first houseboat trip, and tricks to make the job of navigating both the marina and lake easy and fun.…Learn MoreHiking With Kids
You already know how to prep for a hike with adults. Here is a great article that is full of hiking tips for the younger kids in the family. Learn simple tips that help you get ready to take your newborn, todler or grade school children on a hike in the wilderness. Key Takeaways: Learn how to choose the right baby carrier Limit first hikes to a few hours What to pack for infants Toddlers - pack extra socks, kid-sized…Learn MoreEasy Campfire Desserts
There is nothing better than creating a fabulous dessert over an open camp fire and sharing it with your favorite people. Vacations are the perfect time to sit back, relax and create new family vacation traditions. Here are a few easy desserts to try: Banana Smores - Stuff your favorite s'mores ingredients into a banana and grill for a few seconds. Cake Chocolate & Berries - Cut a pound cake into squares, add to heavy cast iron skillet, add fruit…Learn MoreBeach Games For Your Next Resort Vacation
Make your next resort vacation fun for the smallest kids in the family by having fun and easy games they can play while waiting for dinner, or to keep them occupied when the older kids are playing with their friends and the little ones are feeling left out. Here are a few beach game ideas that don't require pre-planning: 1) Beach Relay! Place buckets on the beach. Have kids fill cups with water and race to the bucket to empty.…Learn MoreTips For Writing a Vacation Journal
You can find many how to journal articles online. This article gives great tips that will help you enjoy your vacation long after you've returned to your day to day life. Key Takeaways: Use phone app - Article suggests Day One Document your Itinerary if you have one All entries do not have to be brilliant Take notes of what makes you smile during the day Make sure to write the details Sketch what you saw Journal gratitude - what…Learn MoreBeginner’s Guide To Snowshoeing
REI gives great detail in this snowshoeing guide. People say if you can walk you can snowshoe, that is true, but it's much more fun when you have the right gear and know basic techniques. Read the entire article here: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/snowshoeing-first-steps.html Key Takeaways: Learn how to choose snowshoes and what to wear to stay comfortable Trail etiquette - Yes! How-to maneuver uphill, downhill and side-hilling Choosing poles and how to use them Getting up after a fall Video tips on how…Learn MoreWinter Fun With Our Feathered Friends
Sunday February 11, 2018 2pm-4pm at Rainy Lake Visitors Center Find Details about the event. Learn to identify winter birds common to the park. Learn how to participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count February 16th-19th Key Takeaways: Educator is local naturalist, Noelle Grunwald Identify area birds Make a bird treat to take home Read the entire article here - http://voyageurs.org/event/winter-fun-feathered-friends/Learn MoreTop 10 Winter Experiences at Voyageurs National Park
Cross country skiing in wood This is a must-read article for all those who love our Minnesota winters and want to experience an outdoor adventure. Key Takeaways: Find best places for Cross Country skiing Best way to explore the park on snowshoes Snowmobiling in the frozen lakes and safe portages Explore the Ice Road-check ice conditions by contacting visitors center http://voyageurs.org/2018/01/24/top-10-winter-experiences-voyageurs-national-park/Learn MoreThe Crane Lake Challenge
March 3rd and 4th, 2018 Snowmobile Racing at its Best! This overhead photo was taken in 2016 when hundreds of spectators got to witness an amazing speed of 178.2 miles per hour on our 1,000 feet of shaved ice. On March 4th, 2017, the top speed was 177.4 mph! This is a great event for the whole family! Bring your machines and see just how fast they can go. There are classes for all ages and all types of machines!…Learn MoreFishing for Whitefish
Article by Gord Pyzer There is a possibility that you could hook a nice Whitefish while fishing the Crane Lake Area. People who have eaten Whitefish say it tastes like Walleye, there are even some who prefer it. This article has detailed information on how to catch Whitefish averaging 5 to 10 pounds and possibly even 12 to 15 pounds. Key Takeaways Record Whitefish is 42-pounds off of Isle Royale White fish hang in the same waters that lake trout…Learn MoreInternational Falls/ Fort Frances
This is a good article for those guests that want to take a day trip into Canada. The Fort Frances crossing into Canada is the busiest crossing in Minnesota and is used by local residents and vacationers. May through June is the busiest time due to fishing traffic. Holidays can also be a busy time at the boarder crossing. Key Takeaways: Find Bridge Toll rates Duty Free Shop on the American side Fort Duty Free shop on the Canada side…Learn MoreCrane Lake Blog – Coming Soon!
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