Minnesota fishermen are already making plans to fish the fifth annual Minnesota Fishing Challenge presented by Mills Fleet Farm. This is the June 1 multi-species “fun and family” tournament hosted by legendary angler Al Lindner.
“Fishing on this day benefits the guys and gals in the boats and those in the Minnesota Teen Challenge programs. Anglers have fun and raise funds for Teen Challenge which has a success rate off the charts,” Lindner said.
The date is Saturday, June 1, but Lindner said: “Teams enter early, so the fund-raising reason for this great event can really make an impact on lives.”
Steve Pennaz, honorary tournament director, said: “Fishing brings people together. In the Challenge, they’re fishing to support those fighting drug and alcohol addictions in Brainerd, Duluth and Twin Cities Teen Challenge centers.”
Two-person teams may fish one or all four divisions, Lindner Media bass, Nor-Son pike, Navillus walleye or Nor-Son panfish. Or, they could bring one of each to the scales and enter the Sportech Mixed Bag division. Bag limits are low so every team is in contention. Teams may bring in three each in the panfish, bass and walleye divisions but only one pike.
To spice up the low-key competition, each team brings their largest rock bass to the scales and this weight is added to the divisions they enter. This extra weight is affectionately known as the “Ron Lindner bonus.”
Prizes include resort stays in the U.S. and Canada, six dozen Lindner’s Angling Edge rods and reels, loaded tackle boxes, Frabill ice shelters and nets, guide trips, Navionics GPS maps, MinnKota trolling motors and much more. The popular youth prizes (by draw) of five Mathews bows with guided hunts by Flatline Outdoors will again be featured.
A video at mntc.org/fishingchallenge showcases the event. Businesses, churches and organizations may sponsor teams.
Call 218-833-8777 for more information.
