Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza Recap

For 25 years, the Brainerd Jaycees have transformed Gull Lake in Brainerd from a mere sheet of ice in to one of the largest winter tourist attractions in the world. With the sun shining and temperatures near 40 degrees, over 11,000 anglers attended the event, making for one of the best in recent memory.

A record 1,240 fish were caught during the three hour period, with the winning fish coming just 15 minutes before the 3 p.m. deadline. The 6.73 pound Northern Pike also netted Baumgartner a new GMC truck, but he says this fish will always hold a special memory. The champion also says he plans to attend again next year, and hopes to defend his title.