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Gilbert
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January 24, 2009:
Billed as the World's Largest Ice Fishing Contest, this annual event is held on Gull Lake, just 10 miles northwest of Gilbert Lodge. $150,000 is given in prizes and about $250,000 is raised for local charities. See http://www.icefishing.org |
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With about 9,000 people fishing, there was no way to park cars close by. Instead they parked at Brainerd International Raceway and were bussed to Gull Lake by Reichert. |
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Down to the lake they went. It was one small step for man and one giant leap for mankind to walk on the ice. The lake ice was over 14 inches thick so it was safe for everyone. |
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From the shoreline, they marched to the event on the ice like an army of soldiers on the route lined with American flags. |
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It was people as far as you could see on this clear and cold day. Overnight temperatures were -21 degrees F. The temperature rose to 0 degrees during the event and the wind chill was -29 degrees. But, that did not deter them. |
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A view
from just inside the perimeter road. Overhead, a
helicopter is watching after the fishermen and women who dressed warm
because
of the ever-present
chance of frost-bite.
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Yes, that is Paula leaning over her fishing hole. She, and others are dressed like Eskimos. Her cousin Bob Scott from Garrison, MN, is also dressed in dark colors and is close at hand to help. The lake was 65 feet deep where they were. Gosh fish must be nearby...somewhere. |
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It didn't take long before a lineup grew at the weigh-in station. Along the way they found food including bratwurst with Minnesota wild rice inside served on a stick. Great eating. |
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There were a lot of happy people with fish in their bags. The grand prize is a new pickup truck. Every year, Paula says someone else drives home in HER new pickup truck. Better Luck next year, Paula. Winner details are at http://www.icefishing.org |
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More about Gilbert Lodge |
page last edited 03/01/2009
