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/AP Photo / Rod Lamkey, Jr. via MinnPostThe demand comes after the House Oversight and Government Affairs Committee released a report that said Walz and Ellison ignored rampant fraud in the state’s social service programs. -
Contributed/Alyssa Chen / Minnesota ReformerThe state abruptly paused payment to thousands of care providers in May in a rush to meet a federal deadline. -
Contributed/Lakers Girls Golf Instagram PageAlmost 90 Northland students competed at the state golf tournament June 9-10, 2026, around the Twin Cities. -
Contributed/Brian DowThe number of detainees has not been confirmed. Bemidji police and Beltrami sheriff's deputies did not take part, leaders say. Some community members gathered to protest.
