It's that time of year again!
The KAXE Morning Show hosted a series of conversations about the kickoff to summer 2026 tourist season in Northern Minnesota.
Early Bird Fishing Guide Jeff Sundin talked walleye opener, a new lure (the Berkley Power Bait Power Nymph) he tried that worked well for crappies and a reminder to bring your boat plug before heading to the boat landing.
He also stressed bringing an extra boat plug and a backup for the backup boat plug! Sundin keeps a supply of plugs on his boat, because somehow they mysteriously seem to disappear when needed most.
Wambolts Cabins owner Anne Dougherty talked about the 125-year legacy of the Nevis camp and why her family bought a resort during the pandemic. As mom-and-pop resorts have been dwindling over the years, Dougherty highlighted the organization Community of Minnesota Resorts, which includes resources for current resorts, information for interested buyers as well as information for those interested in staying at local resorts.
Megan Christianson of Visit Grand Rapids added to the morning with information about the economic impacts of tourism in the state as well as Itasca County. Visitors used to come to the region overwhelmingly for fishing, but outdoor recreation — like mountain biking, hiking and kayaking — are now the bigger reason to visit.
According to Tourism Economics 2024, tourism accounts for 1,409 jobs, $208.7 million in economic impact and $19.2 million in taxes in Itasca County.
Is KAXE's Green Cheese a tradition for your opening fishing weekend? Tell us a story about your traditions!
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Contributed/Lake of the Woods School 390 via FacebookOver 30 Northlanders from more than 20 schools earned "Spotlight on the Arts" awards to have their work featured at the state festival May 9, 2026, at Wayzata High School. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEDFL and Republican delegates have been endorsing candidates throughout the Northland, an early step in setting the stage for the November election. -
Events this week include plant sales in Bemidji, Hibbing Community Connect and a jazz festival in Brainerd. -
Contributed/Hibbing Public UtilitiesMinnesota lawmakers set a goal to remove lead lines from the state by 2033, but time is running out in the legislative session to renew funding.
