tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53733952546338949522024-02-19T14:05:45.498-08:00Park Rapids ChamberFaster Solutions, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05670305237908217343noreply@blogger.comBlogger120125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-89046824339689179442015-04-01T12:37:00.000-07:002015-04-01T12:37:20.038-07:00April 2015 - Spring's footprints appear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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About all that remains from winter are small patches of white in shady spots, tree debris lost in a wrestling match with ice, wind and snow, and thinning lake ice. <br /><br />April might still bring anything the weather department can produce, but the snow will cease, lawns will be cleared and the ice will retreat. A Flower & Garden Home Show April 25-26 will assure us summer will bloom.<br /><br />Like gardeners deciding what to plant where this season, community groups are planning for summer and organizing festivals and events. The Northern Light Opera Company is auditioning for West Side Story. The Downtown Business Association has scheduled the bands for 2nd Street Stage. The Chamber events committee is working on Legends and Logging Days.<br /><br />We invite you to plan your vacation or visit us often this season. The Park Rapids Lakes Area offers many ways to Catch a Memory whether you are from out of town or out of state. In addition to a full calendar of festivals and events, more than 400 lakes, forest land and Minnesota’s first state park, home of the Mississippi headwaters, make this a family destination like no other.<br /><br />Resorts and other lodging accommodations in the Park Rapids area invite guests to stay at the center of this extraordinary region and will help visitors realize their dream vacation whether it’s lying on the beach with a good book, venturing out to explore the local landscape or timing a stay to take in local festivals or cultural events. The Chamber website can also assist with your plans and offers a way to order your picture-packed Discovery Guide.<br /><br />It is part of life here that we are optimists at the beginning of each new season and its progression of change. Our accommodations become your personal retreat and our wonderful community is your home away from home. If you don’t want to wait for summer, April can be a quiet time for a leisurely visit to see nature in transition, shop or just relax.<br /><br />If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about the area or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-36188961300097662952015-03-04T14:24:00.000-08:002015-03-04T14:24:33.092-08:00Tired of winter? Embrace it - March 2015<div>
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Snowmobilers, cross country skiers and those who just enjoy the beautiful landscape are welcoming fresh snow after a relatively dry winter. As the days get longer there’s no shortage of fun in store.<br />
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Walleye, pike and bass fishing season has ended in this part of Minnesota, but avid anglers can still enjoy excellent pan fishing here. Subzero nights have kept the ice thick and slick, but safe in most places as March begins.<br />
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Ski and skijouring trails have been packed in Itasca State Park and some have been tracked. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources updates snow and trail conditions in weekly reports posted after 2 p.m. every Thursday at <a href="http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html">www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html</a>. <br />
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Or enjoy a hike to the Mississippi headwaters where there’s open water year round. Some lucky visitors this winter have seen an otter playing there. Snow can bring fun for kids and kids at heart, too. Besides sledding, ice skating, winter camping or a winter picnic, try building a snow fort or snow animals, making snow angels, going on a treasure hunt for ice cubes, making snow ice cream to eat with hot cocoa, making a snow painting or snow lanterns. Or simply measure the snow, find the deepest snow and take pictures.<br />
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If festivals are a reason to head out for the weekend, celebrate the Finnish Saint who led the grasshoppers out of Finland March 13-15 in Menahga. St. Urho Days include opening ceremonies and a concert Friday evening, horsedrawn wagon rides, the Changing of the Guards by the “Nytes of St. Urho,” a parade and barstool races Saturday and a snow sculpture contest Sunday. And don’t miss the food, including mojakka and corned beef and cabbage (in honor of that other Saint being celebrated in March). <br />
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With the first day of spring approaching March 20, it’s time to plan for the glorious months of summer, too. Our new Discovery Guide counts the ways to Catch a Memory anytime at the lake, in the woods or enjoying a local celebration.<br />
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Pick an activity and go with it: biking, hiking, bird watching, fishing, water skiing, tubing down the river, ATV riding, playing golf, building sand castles, sitting by the campfire, picnicking or just relaxing. Let your imagination be your guide.<br />
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Area lodging accommodations can be found to suit your style whether it’s camping under the stars, sleeping within walking distance of a golf course or staying at a cabin on a sand beach. Start here for information on campgrounds, motels, resorts, bed and breakfast inns, vacation homes and a hostel. Most accommodations have Websites so you can peak inside a cabin or read what other guests have to say about their stay. Or, if you prefer, ask for a copy of the 2015 Discovery Guide and page through the information you’ll find inside.<br />
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You may want to plan a visit when one of the area’s special events is taking place and now is the time to make sure you are not disappointed. The Chamber calendar is a great resource for scheduling your stay with dozens of festivals and other fun events all summer long. If you’re here between June 18 and August 20, grab a chair and head to downtown Park Rapids for an evening of great bands, a beer garden, kids’ activities and more. <br />
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If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about activities or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.</div>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-29957749942323162042015-02-26T14:32:00.002-08:002015-04-01T12:39:03.768-07:00Park Rapids Area Fishing ReportSubmitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br />
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Saturday, February 21, 2015<br />
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With Walleye, Northern, and Bass winding down to a halt for the next couple of months, anglers are hitting the lakes harder than ever looking for that one special Northern or Walleye before the season comes to a quit.<br />
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The majority of the Park Rapids winter is behind us and spring is just around the corner. The mature walleyes will now migrate toward shallow waters looking to pack on the pounds before the spawn. Find 12-18 feet of water along tall standing weeds. Aggressive jigging will be the ticket to snagging a trophy walleye! Rig up a Northland or VMC UV Buckshot tipped with the head of a minnow for the best results!<br />
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The monster pike will be following, if not leading the walleyes to the shallows for the abundance of the smaller baitfish that are essential for the spawn. Locate 8 to 20 feet of water around any structural patterns such as rock piles or submergent vegetation. Dig out your tip-ups and make sure to pick up a dozen bigger sized sucker minnows or golden shiners along with a pack of Northland™ “Easy Set” or “Kahle” glow hooks for your chance to hook a massive northern pike.<br />
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Sunfish and crappies will now congregate in the shallow water. As the shallows fill with pre-spawn predators; sunfish and crappies are going to be scooting towards the standing weeds and structures looking for a place to hide. Maximize your chances of hosting a fish fry by dead sticking or jigging with a small crappie minnow affixed to a VMC™ “Tungsten Tubby.” Stop by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store to see the all new 8x24’ Ice Castle “Northern Exposure” and get the latest and greatest fishing tips and tricks for the Park Rapids area!!<br />
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-Josh Severtson<br />
Smokey Hills Outdoor Store</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;">Austin Stenvold pictured with a nice Walleye caught in his 2015 Ice Castle fish house.</span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store</i></span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-69794405537291658912015-02-13T09:39:00.003-08:002015-02-13T09:39:29.445-08:00Nine Year Old Wins Ice Castle House at the Park Rapids American Legion Fishing Derby, February 7, 2015<div>
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Nine year old, Lee Perrington is a "lifelong" fisherman from the Deer River area. He spends countless hours fishing in the hot, cold, winter, spring, summer and fall. All of these days of fishing paid off on Feb. 7th at the Park Rapids American Legion Ice Fishing Derby when he was able to land a 1.78 pound northern pike. This fish put him in the perfect position to win a prize, as the day went on, things were looking better and better and it was announced that he, in fact, was the winner of the 2015 Ice Castle Fish House sponsored by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store. Lee and his ten year old brother were so very excited to out-fish the masses. Their father Jake Perrington set the bar high five years ago, at the very same tournament, when he won a brand new ATV. It's looking like this won't be the last we see of this fishing family, stay tuned...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-59082688983963585482015-02-13T09:20:00.003-08:002015-02-13T10:31:59.650-08:00Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing ReportSubmitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store 2/13/15<br />
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The cold and wind is back and biting the faces of Ice Castle-less fishermen in the northern half of the state. If you do have a means to fish out of the elements; the fish are biting! Find the very tasty black crappies in 15 to 20 feet of water with the action picking up around 5pm. The same is true for the coveted walleye, peak catching time is from 5 to 7:30pm and deeper water has been producing a higher rate of catch. A Gamakatsu™ #6 pink colored hook paired with a weight and rainbow minnow will put the ‘eyes top side. Northland’s™ “Buckshot Rattle Spoon” tipped with a minnow head will also entice them to open their toothy jaws. The area northern pike are reaching their peak weights for the year as they fill up with eggs for the spring spawn. Now is a great time to catch a picture-worthy pike. Find a weed bed over ten feet of water, drop down a 6-8 inch long sucker minnow and wait for the action to commence. Check out <a href="http://www.smokeyhills.com/">www.SmokeyHills.com</a> for pricing, photos and info on our latest Ice Castle inventory. Stop by the store and chat with our friendly staff for the latest tips, tricks and area fishing hot spots. See you soon!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">Smokey Hills Outdoor Store General Manager <br />Hendri Ernst pictured with his recent area crappie catch. </span><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store</i></span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-8000864314184898132015-02-03T10:00:00.005-08:002015-02-03T10:00:53.959-08:00Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing Report<br />Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store - 1/30/2015<br /><br />Fishermen are putting on extra layers of clothing as the temperatures are falling like a brick. The cold front will trigger the area walleyes to start feeding again as we enter the month of February. Set up shop on frozen water as shallow as 6 feet next to the pencil reeds. Make use of your alarm clock and clear your holes by 6am, the bite is early and fast. Glow in the dark Northland™ “Buck-Shot Rattle Spoons” tipped with a locally trapped Smokey Hills Outdoor Store rainbow minnow is the hot bait in the cold water. Catch the crappies on steep drop offs in 20 to 40 feet of water after dark with tungsten jigs tipped with a wax worm. The American Legion Fishing Contest is on Fish Hook Lake on Feb.7th, try your luck at winning a 2015 Ice Castle Fish House! Stop by the store to see our newest Ice Castle inventory and get the most up to date fishing secrets!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Picture courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store:<br /> Austin Stenvold filled his bucket full of fillets in his new 2015 Ice Castle</span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-19877540892003952192015-02-02T06:45:00.000-08:002015-02-02T06:45:28.830-08:00February 2015 - Heartwarming days ahead<br />With Valentine’s Day and a three-day weekend on February’s calendar, a winter getaway to our beautiful north woods may be the way to win your Valentine’s heart for the first time or all over again.<br /><br />The Polar Vortex is last year’s news. The days grow longer and the quiet, frozen lakes invite wildlife viewing. Eagles and trumpeter swans, wild turkeys and white-tailed deer are the easiest to find on a short drive, but other species from muskrats to pileated woodpeckers can be seen.<br /><br />Consider cozying up in a fish house. The ice is thick on local lakes but to be on the safe side you can ask a local bait dealer for a recommendation on where the fish are biting and how to find them. Then warm up by a fireplace or poolside. <br /><br />If you time your stay, you can sample one of the following fun winter events: <br /><br />It’s not too late to head north for the 17th Annual Park Rapids American Legion Community Fishing Contest on Fish Hook Lake from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, February 7. The contest offers more than $110,000 in prizes and an afternoon of family fun on the ice. Other weekend activities include a welcome dance Friday night, breakfast and lunch Saturday, awards presentation, Fisherman’s Ball Saturday night and Sunday morning breakfast, all at the American Legion. Tickets for the fishing contest at $40 each are available at the American Legion or call toll free (800) 247-0054. For more information, go to <a href="http://livepage.apple.com/">http://www.parkrapidsamericanlegion.com/fishingderby.html</a>.<br /><br />If it snows this month, you can enjoy Itascatur’s beautiful Soaring Eagle ski trails at Sunday open houses and have a cup of hot chocolate in the warming house. Check for conditions and events at <a href="http://itascatur.org/soaring_eagle_open_house.shtml">http://itascatur.org/soaring_eagle_open_house.shtml</a>.<br /><br />Learn more about the history of early horse logging, an industry common to this area in the late 1800s, at an old-time logging demonstration Saturday, February 14 at Itasca State Park. Watch lumberjacks fell trees with a 2-man cross-cut saw, buck the log into sections, skid the logs with the teamster’s trained horses, and cross-haul logs onto a horse drawn sled. Members of the Lake Itasca Region Pioneer Farmers will be on hand to demonstrate these early logging methods from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center. Dress according to the weather. Program is held outside in the woods. Please be prepared with warm hats, gloves, snow pants and snow boots. Be prepared to walk/stand in deep snow. In case of poor weather, the event will be cancelled.<br /><br />Or enjoy a winter evening on snowshoes as the light of lanterns guides your way along the Schoolcraft Trail in Itasca State Park between 5:30 and 8 p.m. Saturday, February 21. Meet at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center and snowshoe at your own pace during this drop-in program. For added fun, bring along your s'mores fixings or hot dogs for cooking at the campfire. Limited snowshoes are available on a first come-first served basis. Dress according to the weather.<br /><br /> If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about these and other winter activities or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more. And be sure to check out the 2015 Chamber Guide to find out how to catch a memory all year long.<div>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-50510038594456434072015-01-26T07:49:00.001-08:002015-01-26T07:57:29.578-08:00January 2015 - Resolve to celebrate winter<div class="Body">
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The new year begins as a disappointment to snowmobilers and cross-country skiers, but there’s snow in the forecast. Fingers crossed.<br />
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The ice on area lakes is thick after a string of overnight temperatures well below zero. Some ice houses have been out for weeks. Bait shop owners can tell you where the best spots are to snag a fresh catch.</div>
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Once the white stuff arrives, snowmobilers will find hundreds of miles of groomed trails through scenic forests and networked between destinations where there are places to pause for a meal and warm up. Cross-country skiers also can look forward to hit the trails at Soaring Eagle north of Park Rapids, in Itasca State Park and through the Shingobee Recreation Area between Akeley and Walker.<br />
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The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources updates snow and trail conditions in weekly reports posted after 2 p.m. every Thursday at <a href="http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html">www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html</a>. <br />
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Our winter lodging facilities are open no matter what Mother Nature brings. Warm up by the fire or in the pool, hot tub or sauna and enjoy the area’s fine dining, fun shops and more to do.<br />
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If you time your stay, you can sample one of the following fun winter activities: <br />
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Lantern lit skiing/snowshoeing events and naturalist programs are on the winter calendar at Itasca State Park. For details about winter activities in the park, call 218-699-7251 or go to <a href="http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/calendar.html">www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/calendar.html</a>.<br />
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Menahga’s Family Fishing Day on Spirit Lake offers an afternoon of fishing fun Saturday, Jan. 17. There are games and attendance prizes, too. A $5 ticket will win a lucky angler a fish house provided by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store.<br />
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Register for the Heartland 106 Snowmobile Race (USXC Snowmobile Racing) or plan to watch this exciting event. Racers will sweep through forests and lakes and experience the natural beauty of the Park Rapids Lakes Area Saturday, Jan. 31 and Sunday, Feb. 1. Saturday’s race will be a 25-mile ditch and lake course. Sunday’s race will be a one-lap,100-mile woods race. Races start at 9 a.m. both days on Highway 34 at the east edge of Park Rapids. There are 21 classes of racing from junior to pro, open and vintage. Racers must be pre-registered online at <a href="http://www.usxcracing.com/">usxcracing.com</a> by 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29 or onsite at the North Ambulance Garage, just east of the Super 8 in Park Rapids between 5 and 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30. This is a spectator sport; see the fastest show on snow.<br />
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Tickets are on sale for the 17th Annual Park Rapids American Legion Community Fishing Contest on Fish Hook Lake from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7. The contest offers more than $110,000 in prizes. Grand prizes in this year's raffle are a 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500 pickup truck truck and an Ice Castle fish house. Other raffle prizes, including $1,000 cash prizes, will be awarded. Polaris ATVs top the list of prizes in four of the five fishing contest divisions: bluegill & crappie; northern, walleye & largemouth bass; perch; rock bass and white fish. The awards presentation starts at 5 p.m. at the American Legion. In conjunction with the fishing contest, the American Legion also sponsors a Friday night welcome dance and Saturday night Fisherman’s Ball. Tickets for the fishing contest at $40 each are available at the American Legion or call 218-732-3360. For more information, go to <a href="http://www.parkrapidsfishingderby.com/">www.parkrapidsamericanlegion.com</a>.<br />
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The Chamber Website provides information about trail riding and cross-country skiing possibilities as well as available lodging, dining and other things to see and do while you’re here. If you’ve resolved to celebrate winter and need help planning a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span><br />
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-4479759073564979592015-01-26T07:32:00.003-08:002015-01-26T07:32:35.423-08:00Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing Report & Tournament Guide<div class="MsoNormal">
Park Rapids Area Fishing Report and Tournament Guide<br />
Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br />
1/23/2015<br />
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Winter has given us a break this year by holding back the snow and frigid temperatures making movement on the ice easy. Watch for the various ice heaves splitting the area lakes as they have swallowed a few vehicles, especially on Leech Lake. Walleyes have been more tightly lipped in recent days but the successful anglers have headed slightly deeper; catching fish in up to 30 feet of water. Early morning using yellow or green KenKatch™ glow in the dark “Slim Slams” or a plain green Northland™ hook tipped with a rainbow minnow are the best set ups to put fillets in the deep fryer. It’s been an above average year in the way of monster pike and musky being caught locally. Drop a sucker minnow down 6 feet over 15 to 30 feet of water for the best chance of catching a wall hanger. They are snacking ferociously on tulibees that often live just below the surface of the ice over deep water. Crappies have been hitting the heavy weight tungsten “Toad” jig by Lindy™ when tipped with a wax worm. We are one of the largest Ice Castle dealers worldwide and our selection changes daily. Stop by the store for the most up to date fishing tips, tricks and hotspots. We hope to see you very soon!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">Sarah Hanisch pictured with a recently landed and released 52” musky!<br /><i>Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store.</i> </span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-38908251182715855932015-01-09T06:59:00.003-08:002015-04-01T12:38:19.705-07:00Park Rapids Area Fishing & Ice Report<br />
Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store - 1/8/2015<br />
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The New Year has arrived and the ice is getting safer by the minute. Fish Hook Lake now has up to 21” of good, clear ice. Long Lake east has up to 24” of ice although the access at the north end has an ice heave making it impassable for vehicle travel, the access at the south end is clear and safe for travel. Walleyes have been feeding most heavily from 3 to 6 pm. Jig a glow in the dark KenKatch™ Tackle “Slim Slam” to get their attention. We now have shiner minnows at Smokey Hills and they have been the key to turn fishing into catching this week. The crappie bite has improved and we are seeing great results on VMC™ tungsten jigs tipped with a wax worm. Head to 14 to 25 feet of water after dark to get a few for the frying pan. It’s not too late to order your Ice Castle for the upcoming winter festivals! Stop by the store for the most up to date fishing and ice reports. We look forward to seeing you very soon!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: start;">Area semi-pro fisherman Tyler Wolden pictured with his recently landed 27” walleye. <br />He caught this fish in his 2015 Ice Castle. </span><span style="text-align: start;">Photograph courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store.</span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-43907149271085511622014-12-29T11:11:00.001-08:002014-12-29T11:11:08.953-08:00Park Rapids Area Fishing & Ice Report<br />Submitted by Smokey Outdoor Store - 12/27/14<br /><br />Ice conditions are improving by the minute on the Park Rapids area lakes. The ten day forecast predicts below zero overnight temperatures which will add thickness to the ice and make the fish more active. The majority of Fish Hook Lake has ice 11 to 15 inches thick, Island Lake North has 12 to 14 inches, Long Lake East has 11 to 16 inches, Portage Lake has 17 inches of good ice, Belle Taine has 10 to 14 inches and Potato Lake has 12 inches. Peak fishing times have been varying widely depending on the specific lake. Fish Hook Lake has been producing a decent rate of walleye catch at a rather odd time, 1 to 3pm in 10 to 15 feet of water. Upper Bottle Lake has been doing very well from 3 to 6 pm on the flats on the north end in 5 to 10 feet of water. The cold front has the pike very active. Find them snacking on panfish around the cabbage weed beds in 12 to 16 feet of water. KenKatch™ Tackle Company’s “Boss Jig” has been the hottest lure in the cold water for the active walleyes. Stop by the store for lake specific fishing and ice reports. We hope to see you very soon!<br /><br /><div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cheyenne Platz pictured with her enormous walleye caught just north of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store on 12/26/14 (Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store)</span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-65216621179795501302014-12-19T07:03:00.000-08:002014-12-19T07:23:21.491-08:00Park Rapids Area Fishing & Ice Report<br />
Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store, 12/18/14<br />
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The Northwest winds have finally sent the fog migrating south with the birds; as temperatures are now on par with a regular mid-December Minnesota winter. We are back on track and making ice by the minute. The “hard water” conditions were less than desirable with the recent warm weather, but the water on the top side of the ice has now re-frozen. Fish Hook Lake has ice up to 15 inches thick while Big Sand Lake has been reported to only have 3 to 6 inches. Long Lake (east) has up to 13 inches on the South end while the North end has 6 to 9 inches. The elusive walleye are not so elusive in recent days if you are willing to beat the sunlight in the morning. A plain hook, weight, light line and rainbow minnow has been enticing big ‘eyes to bite in 7 to 12 feet at daybreak. The musky action is hot on Mantrap Lake and they are attacking very large sucker minnows in 6 to 10 feet of water. Bluegills and large perch are easiest to find and catch on Upper Bottle Lake, North of Park Rapids. Stop by the store to get your Ice Castle Fish House accessories and the most up to date Park Rapids area fishing report. We hope to see you very soon!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgN5Z7FzRb0Cb_zEeTS4IaqnvV6k-oGnswA5TpiyDT-KQMM1jaUTXW5MfIRR0L-VXMznVCrqwQcMlS1sppIAKtYi1sw_Om8RnuJXS0l40bcZMBiFWcp77YN6B8_KeJCCzhLDHk0C5dD9o/s1600/nathanCampbell_crappie12.18.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgN5Z7FzRb0Cb_zEeTS4IaqnvV6k-oGnswA5TpiyDT-KQMM1jaUTXW5MfIRR0L-VXMznVCrqwQcMlS1sppIAKtYi1sw_Om8RnuJXS0l40bcZMBiFWcp77YN6B8_KeJCCzhLDHk0C5dD9o/s1600/nathanCampbell_crappie12.18.14.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A small, but pretty Park Rapids area crappie pictured. Photo submitted by Nathan Campbell</span></div>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-27534016702924116702014-12-09T15:02:00.002-08:002014-12-09T15:02:39.264-08:00Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing & Ice Report - December 9, 2014<br />Park Rapids Area Fishing & Ice Report<br />Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store, 12/09/14<br /><br />Winter is in full swing on the Park Rapids area lakes. Most lakes have 12 or more inches of good, solid ice. Cars and light trucks have been driving on the “hard water” in front of the Fish Hook Lake public access as there is up to 15” of ice for the first four or five hundred yards. Ice Castle Fish Houses dot the flat, icy landscape and the locals are fishing around the clock. Remember that no ice is safe ice and bring a local guide with before venturing out as many lakes have currents and springs that will keep the ice from forming. Walleye angling has been excellent from 2pm to 7pm. KenKatch Tackle Company’s™ “Boss Jig” and the all new “Slim Slam” have been producing strikes when tipped with a rainbow minnow head. Largemouth bass, northern pike and bluegill fill the Aqua-View™ TV screen during the daylight hours and the action is lively on most days. Stop by the store to get your Ice Castle Fish House accessories and the most up to date Park Rapids area fishing report. We hope to see you very soon!<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hendri Ernst pictured with his recently landed area walleye. <br />Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store.</span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-27473291396258308432014-12-01T08:48:00.004-08:002014-12-01T08:48:55.292-08:00December 2014, Wrap up your plans for a stay up north<br />The holiday season is upon us with all the extra things on our to do lists. We hope your plans include a trip to visit us. A weekend or a week here to embrace the joys of the season, experience nature and take life at a different pace may be the best gift to you and yours.<br /><br />At the beginning of December, we have a blanket of snow. A little more will bring snowmobilers, cross-country skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts the Christmas gift they want most. The lakes have enough ice that we see fish houses popping up here and there. <br /><br />Music and theater add to the season’s joy. The Park Rapids Classic Chorale will present concerts Dec. 5 and 7 and the Northern Light Opera Company will stage Amahl and the Night Visitors Dec. 12, 13 and 14. Six performances of Christmas Belles, a Jones Hope Wooten comedy, are planned at Long Lake Theater, too.<br /><br />Or visit the 2nd annual Sweets, Treats & Treasures event Dec. 6 with more than 100 kinds of sweets and treats including Scandinavian specialties. Visitors are always welcome to share the culture of those who live here.<br /><br />The Park Rapids Downtown Business Association is sponsoring a Friends & Family Sale Dec. 5 and 6 with extended hours, some refreshments and friendly service. For those who shop here, the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Jingle Bells Sweepstakes offers thousands of dollars in prize money. Participating businesses are giving customers a ticket for each $10 spent in their stores up to 10 tickets per purchase. The lucky winners will be announced at a Gala Celebration Dec. 11 at Century School. Hundreds of people gather at this annual community evening of food, live entertainment and a visit from Santa.<br /><br />All season, Park Rapids’ giant tree brightens Main Street on winter nights and stands as a symbol of small town cheer and good will, lighting the way to a New Year.<br /><br /> Take time in December to immerse yourself in the season’s small town charm or celebrate the arrival of a New Year. If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-25327923564104559602014-11-26T07:23:00.007-08:002014-11-26T07:23:54.198-08:00Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing Report - November 25, 2014Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing & Ice Report<div>
Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store - 11/25/2014<br /><br />January-like temperatures have already provided up to 9 inches of ice on some of our area’s shallow lakes. Walleye fishing has been stellar for those willing to brave the trek out onto the “new ice”. Fish Hook Lake, Boulder Lake, Belle Taine and Eagle Lake are all producing a nice rate of catch over 8 to 12 feet of water. You will find the ‘eyes early morning and late afternoon while the pike action is thick from 9:30am to 1pm. KenKatch Tackle™ Company of Bemidji has a new, hot walleye lure called the “Slim Slam”. Tip this with a fathead or shiner minnow to induce the strikes. Remember that no ice is safe ice and bring a local guide with before venturing out as many lakes have currents and springs that will keep the ice from forming. It’s not too late to order your Ice Castle Fish House or buy a new or used Ice Castle Fish House from our lot! Stop by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store for the most up to date fishing & ice reports. We hope to see you soon!<br /><br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Colby Bozovsky pictured with his recently caught Park Rapids area pike.<br />Photo submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store</span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-18069366401911289592014-10-30T07:31:00.000-07:002014-10-30T07:31:16.906-07:00 November 2014 - Traditions take center stage<br />
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It’s the season in between the most beautiful fall in recent memory and the time when snow will transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. <br />
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The days just ahead are filled with preparations for the firearms deer hunting opener. Hunters site in their rifles, air their blaze orange gear and check out the weather forecast. Nowadays, many women hunt, too, but traditional “hunting widows” look for craft shows to do some early Christmas shopping or to something new to decorate a shelf, the dining room table or this year’s Christmas tree.<br />
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The tradition continues with a Holiday Bazaar Nov. 7 and 8 at the Headwaters Animal Shelter, a Snowflakes & Candy Canes Holiday Show Nov. 8 and 9 at the Century School and the 18th Annual Hubbard Holiday Boutique Nov. 8 and 9 at the Hubbard Community Center. St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Park Rapids will hold their annual Fall Bazaar Nov. 22.<br />
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Starting Nov. 1, shoppers will find Jingle Bells tickets in most stores in and around Park Rapids. This year’s Jingle Bells Sweepstakes offers thousands of dollars in Chamber Bucks and prize bundles. Shoppers receive one ticket per $10 purchase up to a maximum of 10 tickets and can enter through Wednesday, Dec. 10. The Jingle Bells Drawing & Gala Celebration starts at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at Century School with music, food and beverages. Santa will be on hand to take those last-minute requests and merchants will be giving away door prizes, too.<br />
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Park Rapids merchants welcome early shoppers to savor the hometown-style atmosphere you will find where personal service, free gift wrapping and friendly smiles await as you fill those Christmas wish lists. Look for a Friends & Family Sale Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5 and 6.<br />
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The Park Rapids Community Band will bring in the spirit of the season at a winter concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23 at the Area High School Auditorium.<br />
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The tree lighting on Main Street the Friday after Thanksgiving offers a greeting card moment to remember with friends and family. Festivities start with a Yuletide Sampler at participating stores beginning at 5 p.m., a Live Nativity and the annual Hospice Light Up a Life Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join in singing Christmas carols, welcoming Santa and a celebration of life and memories. The ceremony starts at 6 p.m. Once lit, the giant tree stands as a symbol of small town cheer and good will, lighting the way to a New Year. And remember to support your local merchants on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29.<br />
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It’s always a good time to catch a memory whether it’s enjoying the outdoors, relaxing or enjoying some local culture. The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable stay or weekend visit. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-67266387933937529542014-10-30T07:25:00.002-07:002014-10-30T07:25:07.123-07:00Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing Report - October 29, 2014<div>
Submitted by: Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br /><br />Snow has recently filled the sky in the Park Rapids area and the decline of the overnight temperatures have forced the area lakes to follow suit. As the water continues to cool, the fish take notice and are active throughout the day. A heavy, white jig paired with a rainbow minnow is a great set up if you are after walleyes. Find them feeding in 15 to 25 feet on the various sunken islands. Pike are very active as they thrive in cold water. A Kalin’s™ ½ oz jig paired with a sucker minnow or an inline bucktail by Musky Mania™ will spark their interest. Crappie are already schooling in the deeper water up to 40ft and are unmistakable on the graph as they take up most of the water column. The largemouth bass are at their peak weight and are snacking on everything in sight on the deep running points. A Rapala DT-20 crankbait or a Z-Man swimbait will bring them top-side. For the most up to date fishing report, stop by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store. Have a free hot coffee and visit with our friendly staff and check out our impressive Ice Castle inventory. We hope to see you very soon!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Local angler and guide Ryan Marjama pictured with<br /> his recently landed 43" Park Rapids area pike.<br />(Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store)</span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-71355924075122510262014-10-17T07:32:00.004-07:002014-10-17T07:33:25.505-07:00Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing Report - October 17, 2014Submitted by the Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br />
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Park Rapids is home to excellent fall fishing and now is the time to be on the water. As many sportsmen are busy hunting or building deer stands; the lakes are clear of traffic and you will often have the whole lake to yourself. The water temps are now in the low 50's and many species of fish are found in large schools. Walleyes are currently at widely varying depths from 8 feet to 40 feet on the hard bottom points. The tulibee will start spawning soon which will attract the large pike to the shallows to feed. Tulibee spawn on shallow reefs surrounded by very deep water. Use a double bladed bucktail or an 8 to 10" Jake™ crankbait to entice them to strike. Your electronics will help you to locate the schooling crappies. Find them in 15 to 20 feet near the waning cabbage weed stands. Stop by the store for the most up to date and lake specific tips and hotspots. We look forward to seeing you soon!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store -</i> SHOS employee Nathan Campbell<br />pictured with a 36" pike recently caught north of Park Rapids.</span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-32881521135371308172014-10-03T06:31:00.001-07:002014-10-03T06:31:40.915-07:00October 2014 - Fall into a fine time of year<br />After a glorious warm weekend for the Headwaters 100 Bike Ride and Art Leap, fall’s cooler temps moved in bringing thoughts of bonfires, fireplaces and hot apple cider.<br /><br />Some hunters have already headed to the woods and water, paddlers relish one more morning cruise around the lake and anglers take to the water catching fish (maybe), but also the mirror image of fall colors.<br /><br />For others, it’s time to hike, bike or simply gaze at the landscape and take in the comforting scent of crisp fall air. The Park Rapids Lakes Area remains a beautiful, peaceful place to head outdoors, relax or enjoy some local culture. There’s always lots to see and do.<br /><br />Carters Red Wagon Farm (14766 119th Avenue) is hosting Pumpkin Parties again this fall. The Farm is open each Saturday through Nov. 1 as well as Friday, Oct. 17 (Teacher Association weekend). Experience this year’s corn maze featuring Mysteries of the World plus a hay bale maze, Hobbit-themed wagon rides, a crow shoot, giant slide, pumpkin propeller, giant pumpkin boats, “cow milking” and other activities as well as concessions, bluegrass bands and more.<br /><br />The 8th Annual North Country Hiking Fest is coming up Saturday, Oct. 4 at Itasca State Park. Organized hikes will start at 11 a.m. with shuttles provided to various starting points. Then at 1:30 p.m. the Friends of Itasca state Park will host the 27th Annual Ozawindib Walk in honor of the Ojibwe guide who led Henry Rowe Schoolcraft’s expedition to the Mississippi Headwaters in July 1832. Other events planned Saturday are a compass learning activity, leaf art, Voyageur re-enactment program, cookout and music.<br /><br />Or head west for Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge’s Fall Festival Saturday, Oct. 4. Several organized hiking events are planned during October, a beautiful time of year to enjoy the scenery without a mosquito in sight.<br /><br />Main Street businesses will hand out treats to trick or treaters from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. Watching the stream of hundreds of colorful, costumed characters is part of the fun.<br /><br />Many other activities and events to celebrate fall are on the October calendar. The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable stay. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-21926803436595533142014-10-01T08:08:00.001-07:002014-10-01T09:53:21.013-07:00Weekly Fishing Report - October 1, 2014Park Rapids Lakes Area Fishing Report<br />
Courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br />
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The Park Rapids area fishery has been making anglers pleased as the fall trends are now in place. A minnow and jig or minnow and “Lindy Rig” have been producing results. Eight to fourteen feet of water will be the strike zone and time of day is not as important in the fall as the water temperatures hover around 60 degrees. The pike fishing has really taken off with the “big dogs” feeding in the cold, shallow waters. Find any point that is near deep water and cast a Musky Mania™ inline bucktail spinner. Let the lure sink down five or six feet before you begin your retrieve. Bass are congregating near the remaining deep weed beds and a Big Bite Baits™ “Trick Stick” will be the lure to beat. Find them feeding in six to twelve feet of water. Stop by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store for the most up to date fishing tips and tricks for your local lake. We also have Northern Minnesota’s largest selection of Ice Castle fish houses/RVs, we hope to see you soon!Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-30270958935270604192014-09-11T06:11:00.001-07:002014-09-11T06:11:28.477-07:00Weekly Fishing Report - September 10, 2014<br />Park Rapids Area Fishing Report<br />Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store, 9/10/2014<br /><br />As the Park Rapids area lakes continue to cool, the fishing continues to heat up. The seven day forecast calls for overnight temps in the 30’s and 40’s. The ever-extending hours of darkness will contribute to a decline of the water temps on our area lakes. Fall is here, like it or not!<br /><br />The boats of less avid anglers have already began taking up spaces in the local storage garages; while many avid walleye anglers are making sure that their fishing line is fresh for the hefty fall walleye bite. As the daylight continues to make a shorter and shorter daily appearance, the ‘eyes get more and more active knowing that winter is coming and they must store up fat reserves for the long, slow winter. The walleyes will feed where the feed is available, which is currently on the deep weed edge in 10 to 20 feet of water. A Northland™ “Glo Jig” paired with a fathead minnow and a “twister tail” will get the marble eye’d fish to snap their jaws. Keep light feet when fishing them at these shallow depths, they spook easily.<br /><br />You may spend your summer trying to ward off pesky “hammer-handles” (small pike) as they are a menace snapping off your lures and causing you to practice your knot tying skills, but in the fall, the small pike go into hiding as the big dogs come home to feast. Once pike reach about five pounds, they spend their life chasing prey in cold water. During the warm water months they are found gobbling up tulibee at depths up to 50 feet; this makes them hard to locate in the vastness of the barren deep. Get out your heavy gear and head to the shallow cabbage weed stands as well as the sunken islands, rock piles and points. It’s prime time to put a giant on the wall. An 8, 10 or 12 inch Jake™ crankbait will emulate the tulibee that they can’t resist.<br /><br />As the lily pads die off, the largemouth bass will congregate to areas where the pads are still green. This makes the big fish easier to find. A slow presentation such as a Northland™ “Jungle Jig” paired with a Papa’s™ 3.25” chunk should be strategically and quietly dropped in the pad openings. You may have to let the bait sit for a 3 count, but if they are there, they will usually inhale it. Bass can also be found on deep running points and the best way to hook them is with a Rapala™ DT-16 or DT-20. Use a slow retrieve for the best results!<br /><br />Bluegills and crappies will still be found clinging to the remaining living submergent weed growth. As with recent fishing reports, they can still be most easily caught using a 1/16thoz or 1/8oz FluFlu™ jig tipped with a crappie minnow or wax worm. Deep growing weeds are definitely key in narrowing down the locating of nature’s tastiest of treats. <br /><br />Smokey Hills Outdoor Store now has a full line of duck, goose and whatever other kind of animal call that you may need for the fall hunting season. Ask Jared, Drew or Josh about the new duck blinds and decoys. Last but definitely not least, ask Nate, Greg or Hendri to help you design your 2015 model year Ice Castle. We have Northern Minnesota’s largest selection with over 60 units on the lot. Thank you for helping us break another sales record for the month of August. We are already on pace to break the record for this month! Thanks again and we look forward to seeing you soon!!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyP5UTJtTHvcP6yZWffRywIwgMTOi8Uzw9wZzIZRbMrj081GjVgexUwiMuiJfyARxiR6XNexkURXevgt0OSCAzuHa5jrKZpKbTtNFAZOK4ukt8FKAOW-wmwjUjX6VJZ24P2bZ_mEliJcM/s1600/Ryan+MarjamaZach+Milz_BigFish53.Muskie.jpg" height="300" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ryan Marjama (owner Big Fish Guide Service) & Zach Milz (pictured) recently landed this massive 53” musky <br /><i>(Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store)</i></span><br /></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-88390922130901107762014-08-28T06:25:00.002-07:002014-08-28T06:26:59.775-07:00Weekly Fishing Reports - August 27, 2014<br />
Park Rapids Area Fishing Report - 8/27/2014<br />
Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br />
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Some of the leaves in the Park Rapids area have already given up on summer and have begun to change colors in preparation for fall. Overnight temperatures have recently dipped into the lower 50’s and soon the water temperatures will follow suit. The fish will be on notice and their internal clocks will tell them to feed before the brutal Minnesota winter arrives. Some of the year’s best fishing arrives on the next page of the calendar and it’s almost time to turn the page!<br />
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Most of our local lakes store their stash of large walleyes in the deep abyss for the duration of August. As the water cools, they will be dispersed along the weed edges in 8 to 20 feet of water. The majority of the “eater-size” ‘eyes are already feeding on the weed bearing shelves; look for the trophy fish to migrate to the same territory very soon. Late August/early September submergent vegetation provides excellent habitat for some of the walleye’s favorite snacks. The best time to fish these areas is early morning as the sun first peeks over the trees or in the evening as the sun is sinking below the horizon. They will use their exceptional low light vision to relieve the lake of its bluegill and crappie population during these hours. Once again, Bemidji Minnesota made KenKatch Tackle’s™ long shank jig tipped with a minnow or crawler will put the most walleye fillets in your bucket.<br />
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Now is a great time to rig up your heavy equipment and go musky hunting. Some giants have been recently landed on Mantrap Lake, Elk Lake and Twin Lake. Musky Mania’s™ “Double Trouble” bucktail inline spinner is a good lure choice. Mid-day, topwater lures such as Suick’s™ “Nitewalker” will get their attention. Scan the lake for large expanses of cabbage weed beds, this is a good location to start your hunt. The area northern pike are also worth fishing for as they are fat from a long summer of feeding. The pike is a cold water loving fish and will be found on the deep edge of the submergent vegetation. A Live Target™ 8” perch crankbait will get down to the strike zone. Make sure that you have a heavy action rod, we have some monster pike in the area.<br />
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The largemouth bass are getting close to hitting their peak weights for the year. The water has cooled a few degrees and deep diving crankbaits have been bringing more success. Rapala DT-10 to DT-20 cranks will do the trick. As with nearly every other predatory fish right now, the key is to find deep growing cabbage weed and run your crank parallel with the deep weedline. The shallower running cranks will produce results by casting over the top of the weed beds. Use a slow retrieve with an intermittent pause to make them open their wide jaws. </div>
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Bring a 1/8oz FluFlu™ jig and tip it with a wax worm to prevent your livewell from being lonely. Crappies are active in and around the coon tail weed stands. Optimal depth range is 6 to 14 feet and the latter part of day will put more in the livewell. Crappies feed heaviest the 30 minutes before dark and will continue to feed through the night if prey is readily available.<br />
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Stop by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store for lake specific hot tips and hot spots. Our shelves are stocked with the new products for the fall hunting season. Our staff is here to answer any questions that you may have about the outdoors in Minnesota. We are also one of the world’s largest Ice Castle dealers and we are taking orders for custom 2015 models. We thank you for your continued patronage and look forward to seeing you soon!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Park Rapids Area dinner pictured, all fish recently caught.<br />Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store</span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-35862088579749355792014-08-21T08:32:00.002-07:002014-08-21T08:33:15.102-07:00Weekly Fishing Report - August 20, 2014<br />
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Park Rapids Area Fishing Report - 8/20/14<br />
Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br />
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The fish are obese and ready to eat in the Park Rapids area lakes. We are already entering the last days of August which means that the fish are fat from a long summer of feeding. The ten day weather forecast calls for some upheaval in our near perfect summer weather; promising rain and scattered thunderstorms on some of the coming days. We start off this fishing report with easterly winds for the next 72 hours. On day four, they turn westerly and that will turn up the fish activity. <br />
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The most recent “secret” to catching walleyes is to set your alarm to early ‘o clock. The water is coolest at the break of dawn in late August and the ‘eyes also make the best use of their excellent low light vision at that time. Don’t be afraid to snag a weed or two, walleyes will feed where there is the most prey available and that prey will be close to various weed beds throughout the lake. Early morning, you can find walleye feeding between the pencil reed edge and the inside edge of the submergent vegetation. The tall submergent vegetation usually starts growing at 8 feet. Being quiet is also of utmost importance as walleyes spook easily in the shallows. Shut down your electronics and only use your trolling motor when necessary. Make long casts with a KenKatch™ long-shank jig tipped with a leech or shiner minnow. This set up will help you introduce walleyes to the plush carpet on the bottom of your boat. If you prefer not to wake up with the roosters, trolling Rapala™ “Shad Raps” will still bring success later in the day.<br />
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Some nice northern pike have been recently caught by anglers targeting the deeper weed edges. Let a medium sized sucker minnow from Smokey Hills sacrifice its life for your angling pleasure. The northern pike’s preferred late summer habitat is on the deep growing cabbage weed points and sunken islands. Use your electronics to locate the thick, tall growing cabbage weeds. You will want to start your hunt in the deepest bay(s) of the lake as the water is slightly cooler and prey more readily available. Depths of 12 to 25 feet will produce results!<br />
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The largemouth bass remain active, eating everything that the lake provides in preparation for our long, frigid Minnesota winter. Take advantage of their need to store up fat reserves by plucking the “big dogs” out of the coon tail weeds in 10 to 15 feet of water. A Big Bite Bait’s™ “Trick Stick” affixed to a 2/0 Gamakatsu lipstick hook will out-fish most other configurations while fishing for bass from this particular habitat. The technique is slow and sometimes tedious, but the technique will pay off when you find the stash of bass. It’s also a great time of year to dust off your deep diving, fat crankbaits. The big bass are down there on the tips of the deep points just waiting to attack your crankbait!<br />
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The story on the panfish is still much the same as previous weeks. The majority of the crappie and bluegill will be found in and around deep growing cabbage weed stands. Any variation of FluFlu™, KenKatch™, or Northland™ 1/16th or 1/8th oz jigs tipped with wax worm will put fish in the boat.</div>
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Smokey Hills Outdoor Store staff has been busy getting ready for the upcoming fall hunting seasons by stocking our shelves with new firearms, archery products and accessories. Our Ice Castle inventory is one of the most impressive worldwide with more than 60 units currently on our lot. We have again set record sales numbers to date for the month of August. We are grateful for your support as a large majority of our new customers are referral based. Thank you and we hope to see you soon!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cassidy Haggard pictured with her recently caught Park Rapids crappie.</span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store)</i></span></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-14471461285910789182014-08-14T07:26:00.001-07:002014-08-14T07:26:09.369-07:00Weekly Fishing Report - August 13, 2014Park Rapids Area Fishing Report<br />Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br /><br />As we enter the last two weeks of August, the lakes are full of prey for our local fish to eat. This means that fish can be selective on what they choose to ingest. Luckily, our weather forecast is making it easy and enjoyable to be on the water. The weatherman promises mostly sunny skies with temps in the low to mid 80’s over the course of the next seven days. Don’t put away your swimsuits and sun block just yet, summer fishing and water recreation is in full swing!<br /><br />As to be expected for mid-August, the walleyes have not been cooperative for many anglers. Our local successful fishermen have leaked their secrets and two methods are bringing success. The first working technique is to pull a light-weight “Lindy” style rig paired with a leech or crawler in 4 to 9 feet of water along the edge of the pencil reeds. A Mustad™ “Slow Death” hook on your walleye rig will increase your rate of catch. White or lime green have been the best producing colors. The other effective method to get walleyes top-side is to head for the deep running points or sunken islands. Trolling Rapala™, Cotton Cordell™ or Berkley™ deep diving, shad-style crankbaits will do the trick. We have a moon at 83% and waning, but the night bite will remain effective through the rest of this week. <br /><br />The area northern pike are worth fishing for. As they are a cold water loving fish, you will find the bigger ones at the bottom of the thermocline in 15 to 20 feet of water. Look for thick cabbage weed stands that grow at depths up to 20 feet below the surface. They hang on the edges of the weed-line waiting to snack on unsuspecting bluegill, crappie and perch. Deep diving 8 to 10 inch Jake™ crankbaits will entice the strike. Reel fast until your lure get to the desired depth and then slow the action as to make it appear an easy meal. Windel’s™ steel, titanium or fluorocarbon leaders are necessary implements on the big pike hunt. Their teeth are razor sharp and 8 or 10 pound test strength mono line is no match, come prepared with the proper set-up.<br /><br />As summer progresses, food becomes more and more available often making some species more difficult to locate. Largemouth bass can fall into this category as they are a short, fat fish built to make tight turns and feed amongst any habitat. Late summer often disperses large bass throughout the water column. Fishing “the bank” (shorelines) will almost always put fish in the boat, but other methods may be more effective. Avid Northern Minnesota bass anglers know that schools of large bass will move to deep weed stands late summer to feed on the sunfish, crawfish, crappie and minnows that call those areas home. Deep diving crankbaits such as a Rapala™ DT-16 or DT-20 will help to locate the deep fish. Once found, changing to a more persistent and slower moving approach will continue to put “hog” bass in the tournament bag. Big Bite Bait’s™ 5 inch “Trick Stick” or a Terminator™ “Pro Jig” 1/2oz bass jig are both deadly deep water lures and should be part of your deep water fishing arsenal.<br /><br />The story on the panfish is still much the same as previous weeks with the lion’s share of the fish being caught in and around deep growing cabbage weed stands. Any variety of FluFlu™ style jigs tipped with a worm or crappie minnow will result in small, tasty fillets sizzling and popping in your frying pan by nightfall.<br /><br />Smokey Hills Outdoor Store has a full lot of Ice Castle Fish Houses/RVs with the largest selection in Northern Minnesota. Buy your next Ice Castle from us, you get the small town honesty with the big city selection right here in Park Rapids. All of us at Smokey Hills Outdoor Store thank you for helping us grow as fast as we have and we will continue to get better and work harder to make your next experience with us a good one. We hope to see you very soon, thanks again!<br /><br /><div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRoyUT1gtclMvScLO_DMyL6RwI2ctqVqJBeZ8oADFMyMOLCBlI8o6qEzHFIyIjmQlKmCoeKFEoOHngJpSW90tEITLGXuZMb-q5WgAghxXX4w2uGlPgSkbg5SkPhW92UipHaiNkmrF6_5V/s1600/kid+with+walleye_Tyler+Gades8.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRoyUT1gtclMvScLO_DMyL6RwI2ctqVqJBeZ8oADFMyMOLCBlI8o6qEzHFIyIjmQlKmCoeKFEoOHngJpSW90tEITLGXuZMb-q5WgAghxXX4w2uGlPgSkbg5SkPhW92UipHaiNkmrF6_5V/s1600/kid+with+walleye_Tyler+Gades8.14.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">8 year old Tyler Gades with his first walleye, a massive 31 ½” fish <br />caught recently on a local Park Rapids Area Lake <br /><i>(Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store)</i></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373395254633894952.post-22499000046766277132014-08-06T14:40:00.002-07:002014-08-06T14:41:07.391-07:00Weekly Fishing Report - August 8, 2014Park Rapids Area Fishing Report<br />
Submitted by Smokey Hills Outdoor Store<br />
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The weather has been absolutely beautiful in the Park Rapids area and much of the next ten day forecast promises more of the same. Many of our local lakes have a surface temperature of nearly 80 degrees by mid-afternoon, this means that fish will be more active in the morning and evening. Make sure that your electronics are “up to snuff”, you will need them to put fish in the boat this week!<br />
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The ever sought after Park Rapids walleye have left our local anglers scratching their heads in recent days. It’s time to think outside the box and fish different areas of the lake. We have been selling more lead core line as the big ‘eyes are deep. Weighted line can make all the difference in getting your lure in front of their nose. Lures such as Rapala’s™ “DT-20” are usually reserved for use by bass fishermen, but will be helpful on this week’s walleye hunt. Most of the prey gathering at depths of 20 feet or more have a black or dark colored back. Use a Sharpie™ marker to “paint” the back of your Rapala™ and increase the odds that they will make a meal of your hook-laden crankbait. Sunken islands as deep as 40 feet have been and will be holding fish in the coming days. Remember to let your sonar be your sixth sense on the walleye hunt, you can’t catch them if they’re not there!<br />
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Warm water temps are great for swimming, skiing, tubing....oh, and catching giant razor toothed Minnesota muskies! Attaching a sucker minnow to a 3/0 circle hook under a heavy pole float is a good way to kick back, relax and wait for a giant to attack. Pick a sunken island or point near deep water and let the anchor down. This method has been tricking muskies for years. The more active angler will have success throwing a classic Musky Mania™ “Double Trouble” inline bucktail spinner. Even when the bite is not hot, this approach will produce “follows” and keep your interest in making another 100 casts. <br />
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Many of the local bass tournaments are being won by those anglers fishing at depths of 10 or more feet of water. Success will still be found fishing in the lily pads and pencil reeds, but the large concentrations of big bass will be found in the deep growing cabbage and coontail weeds. Wacky worms, bass jigs and crankbaits are all good choices for catching them out of the deep vegetation. Largemouth will be there from now until the weeds die off in the fall and the same technique will continue to yield a positive catch day after day.<br />
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The story on the area bluegill and crappie is much the same as the two previous weeks with fish schooling near steep drop offs on weedlines. A green colored FluFlu™ jig paired with a crappie minnow will put more crappies in the bucket than fishing with a wax worm tipped jig. Cast the weedlines until you find a fish, mark the spot and start bobber fishing. They are a schooling fish and where there is one, there are more. The same method will work for bluegills minus the crappie minnows, trade them for a nice juicy angle worm and the ‘gills will respond.<br />
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If you are in the market for a new Ice Castle, Smokey Hills Outdoor Store is the place to come for one of the best selections worldwide. We are the only dealer to stock multiple King’s Castles. Our current inventory exceeds 60 units and we also have a great staff to help you design a custom Ice Castle to personally suit your needs. We are so very grateful and thankful for your support. We will continue to set the bar higher and we are excited to see you very soon!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4xw8EJ58mSB9eGex9W1bRhzu5L3wep4GMWJrrffo7m8C9b-oJRMsXlyCV7Q3BkiHgN6yZiuBBSrzQ8YliuwOcledpJI_OrB9pUwnbSLFQDFjXoOWc1VToYKmyj9WFf2sO1kcvKFIKiCV8/s1600/stephHafner8.2014.jpg" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="221" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;">Park Rapids local angler Stephanie Hafner with her recent bluegill catch.</span><br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photo courtesy of Smokey Hills Outdoor Store)</span></i></span></td></tr>
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Park Rapids Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04083269939206635291noreply@blogger.com0