Military Fishing Tourney At Wharf A Huge Success

Hats off to Fishermen's Wharf and its many sponsors, including the Minnesota Military Appreciation Fund, for the job it did putting on the Second Annual Military Personnel Fishing Contest Saturday on Lake Mille Lacs.

In all, 62 boats competed, nearly tripling last year's inagural event.  Tom Herman and Steve Barsness walked away with cash first prize.  Their four-fish total of 7 pounds was .38 pounds better than Trevor Sloneker and Dave Griswolds second-place showing.  Jim and Vicki Magedanz took third with 6.30 pounds of walleye.

This event wasn't about winning money, as most proceeds were donated to MMAF to help support the many Minnesota veterans -- Guard, Reserve and Active -- who are or have served in recent conflicts since September 11th.  Many have been injured and have received small grants from the MMAF. It was a chance for a current or former military member to partner with another person and share a day on Mille Lacs and an evening of fun at the Wharf.  The event had veterans from the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf Wars I and II and up through Afghanistan.

Boaters lined up outside the wharf at 0700 for the Star Spangled Banner, augmented by a Minnesota Army National Guard color guard detail.  Many fishing wore their issued "OD Green" tourney t-shirts as winds were calm and temps were comfortable.  One by one, boats blasted past the starting pontoon headed for their honey holes on the big pond in search of Walleye.

I was fortunate to have local guide Matt Treno of Matt's Fishing.net accompany me in the tourney.  Although we placed 15th in the field, we caught alot of walleyes that were too big to keep.  We slip bobbered in 6-7 very different spots on the lake.  The day-long event was blessed with good weather and a follow on dinner and program that included a silent auction and raffle prize giveaways.  If you want to ensure a great day on the water, I would recommend Matt Treno.  He gets results.

I walked away from the event having had a great day on the water and a fun time at Fishermen's Wharf.  Wharf owners Daron and Lori asked that participants tell friends so that a 100-boat goal can be achieved for next year's Third Annual event!  Kudos to Billy and the staff at the Wharf for great service! Count me in for 2011 and keep up the good work!