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/Deborah Rose / Minnesota Department of Natural ResourcesThirty-three communities received nearly $5 million in funding, including Virginia, Hill City and other Northern Minnesota cities. A new DNR grant closes Sept. 14, 2026. -
Megan Buffington/KAXELocal livestock producers face limited options for meat processing and slaughter amid market consolidation and workforce shortages. -
Contributed/Max Nesterak / Minnesota ReformerWalz is instructing the DNR not to grant permits. This move bears a strong risk of litigation over Twin Metals, which wants to extract copper, nickel, cobalt and other valuable metals from underground veins. -
And: Glen's Army Navy in Grand Rapids to close after 80 years.
