Fishing Tips

Environmental & Science Education, STEM, Biodiversity, Nature, Wildlife

Ed Hessler

"Most of the world is covered by water. A fisherman's job is simple: Pick out the best parts." – Charles Waterman

Dennis Anderson (StarTribune May 29, 2022) offered some simple and sound advice on picking out "the best parts." When you drive "keep an eye peeled for really big fish. And cast a line near them."

The fish are most often "made of fiberglass." Anderson calls attention to what he thinks is likely true about our state. There are "probably...more highway shrines to all things finned than any other state." They mean, he says, "that good fishing is close at hand."

He continues, noting that "the monuments' primary intents are to advertise businesses and/or stoke community spirit. But they are just as readily guides to some of Minnesota's best fishing waters." By the way this practice has resulted in a variety of fishing "Capitols of the World." Anderson discusses one example: the walleye. It has led to these capitols: Garrrison, Baudette, Garrison (North Dakota), Port Clinton (Ohio), Isle, Rush City, Kabetogama Township "...and on and on."

Anderson notes that this is the most recent manifestation of highlighting "people's relationship with nature, and to honor the subject beasts." "Nearly since the beginning of time, sculptors and other artists have molded, painted and otherwise recreated animal likenesses. In particular he draws attention to the red ochre rock paintings in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

And so you might wonder "where are all of these big fish spawned. At a fiberglass animal farm in Sparta, Wisconsin," the home of FAST Corp--Fiberglass Animals Shapes and Trademarks. It usually takes "eight to 16 weeks." The longer time is likely when the mold has to be created rather than when available off-the-shelf.

Anderson closes this great story with a tip. "When you see a giant fake walleye, bass, muskie, trout or bluegill, the real thing is almost certainly nearby, in spades. Pull over the and start fishing." 

He takes the occasion to also set a record straight. Minnesota has "14,380 lakes." (my bold)

There is also a bonus feature: A map of the state with locations of 10 Big Fish Statues, each with a story about the replica and comments on fishing. One isn't a fish or even located in Minnesota but does have a fin tail. It is the Rainy Lake Mermaid on the Ontario side of Rainy Lake.

Here is a link and it wasn't behind a subscription paywall with additional information on camping.

Once again, a great story by Mr. Anderson on fishing, biodiversity as the spice of life, as a way of enjoying and getting to know the natural world, as well as consider the links between nature and our economy. And one more reason to work on conservation issues of your choice such as global warming and habitat restoration/preservation.