Scott MacKenthun is a CrappieNOW contributor and a Minnesota fisheries biologist. He understands better than most the lure of catching Minnesota crappie under ice. (Photo: Richard Simms)
Destination: Bemidji, MN
by Tim Huffman
If you’re looking for an adventure to the far north – the land of wolves, northern lights, national forests and crappie on ice – you need to add Bemidji, Minnesota to your travel wish list.
Lake Bemidji is just one among the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes. But it is located out the backdoor of Bemidji and all its amenities, offering easy access fun fishing action, and much more. My experience was in the fall, a great time to fish, marvel at the fall colors, and enjoying all outdoor activities. But right now, those same waters are frozen solid and fishermen drill through the ice for crappie action – along with other fun species.
On the Ice
Two Minnesota experts share some fishing tips and ideas for those coming to visit this winter or spring. The first is Brady Laudon, fishing guide and assistant director of tourism at Bemidji.
“We have over 200 lakes within 25 miles of Bemidji, so it’s important to target where you want to fish,” says Laudon. “For a variety of species, most lakes will provide plenty of action. If you want to target something specific like crappie, you need to know which lakes have good populations and go to those lakes.
Laudon said newcomers to ice fishing can go out on their own, but he believes a guide is the best way to go because they can show you the technique that you can take to other lakes and use. It’s a learning experience before you go out on your own.
“One of the great experiences is an overnight ice house rental,” said Laudon. “Walleye and jumbo perch are typically pursued in the Bemidji area, but other species, like crappie, will be caught, too.
Laudon and most other Minnesota ice anglers prefer small plastics on 1/32-ounce heads. Tipping with wax worms is a way to trigger more bites. Expect crappie to be 10 to 13 inches on most lakes. A good meal means other species will bite, too.”
Outdoor writer and CrappieNOW contributor Scott Mackenthun said the state has great fishing with the Bemidji area being a top pick.
“There are so many lakes with each one being different. If you’re going after crappie, there are certain lakes that will produce some nice fish. Many fishermen here target panfish, but not specifically crappie.”
Mackenthun added that, “Ice fishing is good here. It’s not like Hollywood’s version of ice fishing in Grumpy Old Men. Today we are on the move, marking fish with electronics, catching and having a lot of fun. Equipment and tackle are so specific to ice fishing with a flasher, ice auger, short rods and other equipment, someone coming up here from the south won’t have what they need. Equipment is available for rent if someone chooses to do it on their own. However, there are fishing guides who can give you a good trip by providing the equipment and knowledge necessary for success.
“A fisherman visiting Minnesota may want to consider targeting a species that is ‘hot,’ whether it’s under the ice or in the spring. I know people like to catch crappie, but we have great fishing for walleye, bass, northerns, perch and other species. For example, Lake Bemidji has a good perch and walleye population, along with big rock bass.”
Winter Stuff to Do
Bemidji winter sports can mean being a spectator or participant. Curling is popular and the college has a hockey team. However, most outdoorsmen want to be in the elements. Bemidji earned the title “Snowmobile Capital of the North” because of its unmatched scenic beauty, grooming, and an abundant number of trails. Many lodgings offer direct access to the trails. A similar but more strenuous choice is cross-country skiing or snowboarding with over 100 miles of challenging and scenic trails.
Hunters pursue deer, grouse, waterfowl and more. Consider taking a guided wolf or bear hunt.
Springtime
Spring brings many family activities along with ice-out fishing. Fishing is great with crappie moving to mid-depth and shallower water. Find them first in northern coves where water quickly warms.
Golf and disc golf are popular. So is biking and hiking in and near town, along with many trails within a short drive. Birding is popular and offers many opportunities and areas.
Ramp up your adrenaline with an ATV trip. The area is rough hilly terrain, dotted with bogs and ponds. Try the Schoolcraft ATV/OHM trail, named one of the best in Minnesota, or the old Soo Line railroad on the Wilton Trails.
Bemidji has 18 parks, fishing piers, picnic shelters, tennis, pickleball courts and much more. Vacationers must take a picture with Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, then enjoy the sculptures and take a lakeside stroll.
Itasca State Park is a 40-minute drive but worth the time. This is where the Mississippi River begins, can be crossed by wading, or walked across on a log. The park has a beautiful drive, a visitor’s center and Douglas Lodge.
When you get hungry in Bemidji, try Fozzie’s Smokin BBQ, Bar 209 or Giovanni’s Pizza.
For much more information visit www.visitbemidji.com or call 877-250-5959.
Tim Huffman is CrappieNOW co-founder and senior writer. His crappie-fishing books are available in Kindle or paperback at Amazon.com.
