Trout Unlimited MINNESOTA the Official Publication of Minnesota Trout Unlimited - August 2016

Trout Unlimited MINNESOTA The Official Publication of Minnesota Trout Unlimited - August 2016

Fishing Our Habitat - Garvin Brook A Successful Great Waters Expo! Book Review - Covered Waters 2017 Fly Fishing Film Showcase Details More Lost Metro Trout Streams

The Photo Issue - Photo Contest Winners!

without written permisssion of Minnesota Trout Unlimited. Trout Minnesota of permisssion written without

ROCHESTER, MN ROCHESTER,

PERMIT NO. 281 NO. PERMIT

Chanhassen, MN 55317-0845 MN Chanhassen,

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P.O. Box 845 Box P.O. March 17th-19th, 2017 Details Inside

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Non-Profit Org. Non-Profit Minnesota Trout Unlimited Trout Minnesota Trout Unlimited Minnesota Council Update MINNESOTA The Voice of MNTU Summertime on the Water By JP Little, Minnesota Council Chair

On The Cover elcome to the 2016 summer call out those opportunities to join in the Minnesota Trout Unlimited fun. Photo contest winner Dan Callahan statewide newsletter. Sum- with a section of Nass Creek, aka W mer has broken out all over the great state I would like to thank Dean Campbell, “Unnamed #4” one of the Lost Trout of Minnesota, and tis the season to enjoy President of the Twin Cities chapter, Streams of Burnsville. Dan has won our many, many miles of trout streams. for agreeing to serve as State Council the “Minnesota Waters” category and From Southeast to Central to the North Secretary for the next year. We are still also is the overall winner. Find other Shore, we have countless opportunities in need of a long-term solution for that winners on page 6. to chase trout and wild steelhead. role – please contact me at jplittle999@ gmail.com if you would be interested. There are also many opportunities to participate in rehabilitation projects on those trout streams throughout the year, In This Issue although projects are in full gear across Tight Lines! the state as you read this. There are a • More “Lost Trout Streams” number of articles in this newsletter that

• Photo Contest Winners!

• Fishing Garvin Brook • Funding for New Habitat Work Table of Contents • And much more! Fishing Our Habitat Work: Garvin Brook...... page 4 2016 Photo Contest Winners...... page 6 Caring for the Boundary Waters ...... page 8 Fly Tying - The Basic Pheasant Tail...... page 9 Funding Secured for State Habitat Projects...... page 10 Join TU Today! A Gift and a Dance...... page 11

Want to subscribe to this newsletter? TIC Update...... page 11 See the back page for details or visit www.tu.org to join Trout Unlimited! Invasive Plants...... page 12 Finding Nass Creek...... page 13 Book Review - Covered Waters...... page 14 2017 Great Waters Fly Fishing Expo Unveiled...... page 14 Trout Unlimited Minnesota is the official publication of Minnesota Trout An Exceptional Angler & Donation...... page 15 Unlimited. Issues are distributed to all members of Minnesota Trout Unlim- The Lost Trout Streams of Burnsville - Part 3...... page 16 ited chapters. Subscriptions are available by joining Trout Unlimited. See Chapter News...... page 18 the back page for further details. Reeling it In...... page 20 Copyright © 2016 Minnesota Trout Unlimited. No Portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from Minnesota Trout Unlimited.

Advertising rate sheet available on re- quest. Send all editorial and advertising correspondence or other inquiries to the editor:

Carl Haensel 2067 E. Pioneer Rd Duluth, MN 55804 [email protected]

Send address changes to:

Trout Unlimited, 1550 Wilson Boule- vard, Arlington, VA, 22209. Students in the Trout in the Classroom program examine aquatic macroinvertebrates as a part of the all- school summit held this past spring. Learn more on page 11. 2 From The Executive Director Wishing for a Goldilocks Flood By John Lenczewski, MNTU Executive Director

arlier this summer I visited a habi- where trout and bugs quickly thrive. The tat project in southeast Minnesota damage to streams from average floods Ewhich MNTU had completed the is the result of decades of human activi- year before. I found myself wishing for ties which buried valley floors in sedi- a good flood. ment. Our habitat projects open up and reconnect streams to their floodplains so “A good flood?” you may ask. “I thought that the stress of flooding quickly dis- floods were bad?” sipates rather than tearing apart stream MNTU banks and in-stream habitat. ited were doing very well, but this small Truly severe floods, the “100 year stream had not experienced high water Connections events” you hear about, damage human Our projects create cover habitat for low since before the project. Silt covered the structures and can tear apart stream chan- and moderate flows. But just as impor- gravel and cobble and the rock vanes Executive Director nels. However, more average floods, the tant, they are also designed to manage built to scour out pools, had been idle. I John Lenczewski type that occur every other year or so, are flood water, which scientists call “chan- found myself wishing for a “Goldilocks [email protected] essential for moving the sediments that nel forming flows,” in such a way that flood.” 612-670-1629 every stream must transport. In South- sediment is moved through and sorted www.mntu.org east Minnesota, where silt and sand can out in ways beneficial to trout. MNTU I am happy to report that the flood has build up in the absence of high water designs for the benefits of an average since come, scouring out pools and trans- events, the benefits of an average flood flood. On the flipside, restored stream porting the silt and sand away. The wild Minnesota Council Chair are obvious. Long reaches, which have banks are vulnerable until vegetation trout are beginning to thrive amongst the JP Little been gradually filling with silt and sand, establishes roots to hold soil. We don’t gravel and cobble bottom. [email protected] burying spawning gravel and smooth- want too much water too soon. ing insect habitat can be transformed to gravel and cobble-bottomed streams The native grasses on the stream I vis- Tight lines. TU MN Editor Carl Haensel [email protected] 218-525-2381

TU MN Copy Editor Jade Thomason [email protected]

TU MN Communications Coordinator Dan Callahan [email protected]

Gitche Gumee Chapter Jon Aspie, President [email protected] 218-724-5014

Headwaters Chapter Bob Wagner, President [email protected] A wild steelhead is ready to release on the North Shore. Bob Wagner gives thanks on page 11. 218-586-2798

Hiawatha Chapter Editor’s Angle Phil Pankow, President [email protected] Summertime Explorations www.hiawathatu.org By Carl Haensel, Editor Mid-Minnesota Chapter hope this newsletter issue finds you ect on the North Shore has been mov- Micah Barrett, President at home for only a brief time between ing forward, though we always need [email protected] I summertime fishing trips. Summer more volunteers. Consider stopping on as a fishing guide is a time of adventure, the shore between fishing trips to help exploration and time on the water. I rel- out. Read more about it in the chapter Twin Cities Chapter ish the opportunity to reconnect with old news section. Other habitat projects Dean Campbell, President waters that I’ve known in the past, and around the state are always in need of a [email protected] to explore new locations around NE MN helping hand. Contact the local chapter 612-564-TCTU and around the country. It seems on al- president if you are interested in getting www.twincitiestu.org most every day that there are trout wait- involved today. We’re always happy to ing somewhere, just around the bend, hear from traveling anglers as well, and ready for a fly to be laid behind their are happy to provide local tips regarding Win-Cres Chapter personal boulder or at the edge of the log streams and rivers that are fishing well. Joe Lepley, President jam where they live. On the longest days [email protected] of the summer, I go to sleep dreaming of May the streams flow cold and clear, and www.wincrestu.org these perfect lies, and wake up just a few the trout rise up to meet your flies as they hours later to cast to them again. land softly on the water as our summer eventually fades into early autumn. For MNTU, summer is the time when most of our habitat work and research Good luck fishing! www.mntu.org projects occur. The temperature proj- 3 Fishing Our Habitat Work: Garvin Brook Fishing & Restoring a SE MN Gem By Mark Reisetter arvin Brook has long been an extremely productive brook Gand brown trout fishery, far ex- ceeding what might be expected, given its small size, high visibility, easy road- side angling access, and proximity to the population center of Winona. After heavy rains, it becomes an even more valuable resource, as it is one of the first streams to clear up for quality fly fishing!

Garvin Brook gets its name from H. C. Garvin, a Winona flour magnate who, along with his wife, Louise, donated a sizeable tract of land to Winona County in 1925 near the headwaters of this beautiful spring creek. With that newly acquired parcel, Winona County created “Farmers Park,” the entrance of which is located near the twin stone arches, circa 1882, which carry the railroad over Winona County Road 120 and Peterson Creek, a small tributary of Garvin Brook. Farmers Park remains a much-used picnicking and family gathering location to this day. The August 2007 flood ravaged this valley, almost totally destroying Farm- ers Park, ripping up the corridor. On its way to join Rollingstone Creek and the Mississippi River, over ten miles downstream, it flooded Stockton and Happy Anglers along a recently improved reach of Garvin Brook much of Minnesota City. current MNDNR Stream Habitat Con- because of the high public exposure this An angler’s parking lot off of Highway The Trout Unlimited Habitat Improve- sultant. work would receive. In the MNDNR 14 was constructed about halfway in ment Project, originally slated for The Win-Cres Chapter of TU select- Fisheries “Trout Angling” map booklet, the project reach on state forest land, 2012, finally began in June of 2014. ed the 6,355-foot (1.2 mile) stretch of this work is shown on Map 8, on pages at TU’s suggestion. Dave Svien, be- Previously, the section of Garvin Garvin Brook that runs along U.S. High- 20-21. There, you will also see that the fore he retired as MNDNR Forester in Brook that runs through Farmers Park way 14, between the high railroad tres- entire improved reach is a special regula- the Lewiston office, prepared the nec- had been worked on by the MNDNR tle at the upstream end and the railroad tions stretch that is restricted to artificial essary paperwork for MNDOT. When in 2008, led by Brian Nerbonne, the bridge on the downstream end, partially lures or flies only, and has a protected approval was granted, the Lanesboro slot for all trout 12” to 16”. Fisheries crew constructed the lot and access ramp, several years before the This portion of Garvin Brook became actual project began. braided in several areas after the 2007 flood. Channels of the stream, with pre- TU also installed a water quality moni- vious HI work from 25 years ago, were toring station before the project began, abandoned. Five large pools, the biggest just below the mid-point as the stream being 540’ long and 50’ wide, were cre- comes close to the highway. In ad- ated by the flood; the pools reduced flow dition to measuring air temperatures and created shallow water, which tended and rainfall amounts, the monitor also to warm the stream in the summer, and measures dissolved oxygen, stream freeze it in the winter. Garvin Brook temperature, and helps determine the also had some highly erodible, vertical stage–discharge relationship for the mud banks that had to be sloped. The stream. flood, in exposing so much bare rock and soil, also created opportunities for inva- My preferred method to fish the stretch sive plants, such as garlic mustard and is to park in the angler’s parking lot, the hardy Japanese knotweed, to flourish walk down to the lower end, and begin and out-compete the natives in the dis- fishing back upstream. The walk down turbed ground. to the lower end (on the Wachholz property) is worth it because a couple A challenge in the design process was of the holes at the lower end are often the fact that the riparian corridor is un- quite generous. usually tight because of the manmade “dikes” on both sides of the stream, When you get back upstream, directly namely the highway and railroad beds. opposite the parking lot, perhaps the The project’s onsite work was a solid deepest hole abuts the railroad, and its collaboration between the MNDNR embedded skyhooks are placed about Fisheries Habitat Crew from Lanesboro, 5 to 6-feet below the surface. I usu- specifically Fisheries Specialist Steve ally fish two or three bends above that Erickson and his main equipment opera- point, and then return to the truck. I tors, Rex Bearbower and Blake Lee, and drive up to Winona County Road 120 Win-Cres TU. In addition to the stream and park by the double gates next to work, the fisheries crew also constructed the stream. From there, I walk down- two snake hibernacula (one made from stream as far as I think my remaining rocks, the other from logs), and two de- time allows, and fish back up. Some A healthy brown trout from Garvin Brook pressions adjacent to the stream for frogs anglers fish up from the parking lot and and turtles. then walk back down the highway, but, 4 really the “roads” that were built to deliver the rock to the stream are still discernable and provide solid footing in a fairly direct line, which allows one to avoid walking a busy thoroughfare.

As Win-Cres used eight of the leftover skyhooks from the Pine Creek project, there are some bank hide structures, along with some “cribs” that were also installed. Don’t overlook the areas where the grasses provide some overhang, as well. Some great depth along this stretch was also created, so be careful not to go over your chest waders in a few of the deeper holes. In truth, much of this stretch can be fished from the banks. Bank stabilization was ensured in numerous spots by implanting root wads, which right now can make fishing diffi- cult in a few locations. On the flip side, those areas will grow some fish. Over time, these obstructions will be worn down and become less noticeable. A friend of mine had a 16 inch trout wrap his tippet around a submerged root and it never came to net, but the memory of the encounter lingers comfortably.

Garvin Brook has always had great caddis hatches, and throughout the summer, the magical evening hour before dusk can really be amazing. Since the habitat work, the terrestrial action has been greatly improved because of MN DNR Fisheries and Forestry, MN ongoing, as funds to support work on Editor’s Note: Contact the Win-Cres the openness and the grasses. Late TU, Win-Cres TU, TU DARE, TU Na- the next stretch from the railroad bridge chapter of MNTU to get involved with summer into the fall brings phenom- tional, WSU, the Winona County SWCD downstream have been approved. The ongoing work along Garvin Brook, enal grasshopper fishing. and Federal Farm dollars, the Stockton- project on Garvin Brook should contin- and contact the author, fishing guide Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed ue through the Oevering property, as it Mark Reisetter, to learn the secrets of The fishing in Garvin Brook is good, District, MNDOT, the LSOHC, our MN meanders its way toward Stockton along this excellent trout stream in SE MN. and it’s only going to get better be- legislature, and most importantly, the scenic U.S. Highway 14. Find his contact information and ad on cause of the great collaboration of important landowners. This project is the back cover of this publication.

A well-designed new parking area along Garvin Brook provides con- venient angler access to some of the best reaches of the stream.

An angler fishes a run along Garvin brook over 6 feet deep. The MN DNR has constructed more than just trout Habitat along Garvin Brook. This depression provides cover for amphib- ians and turtles in the floodplain of the creek. 5 2016 Photo Contest Winners Congratulations to the Winners!

his season was the third year for Rules from the 2016 Contest: • All photos submitted must be sent in Prizes the MNTU Newsletter photo *.jpg format at their original resolu- The winner in each category receives Tcontest. It was a great success • Photos must be shot in Minnesota tion to the Editor at: a box of a dozen flies ready to catch and has grown by leaps and bounds • Photos should fall into a category: [email protected] trout this season. The overall winner this season yet again. Thanks to the Minnesota Waters There is an entry limit of three photos receives a wooden-handled trout net. large number of contestants that sent Trout, Salmon & Steelhead per individual. Please include the a wide variety of photos from around Family Fishing name of the photographer and the Plan to take lots of photos when you’re the state. A selection of winning pho- • Photos must include a trout, salmon location the photo was taken in the out fishing this year for next season! tos are presented on this page. If your or steelhead, OR a water body that submission. photo was not used here, keep an eye they inhabit. • Submission of photos gives MNTU the for it in future newletters or on the web • Photos were to be submitted by May right to publish photos in the MNTU site or our Facebook page. 15th, 2016. Top enteries in each cat- newlsetter, and in online media. egory are published in this issue of the MNTU Newsletter.

Overall Winner Honorable Mention - TROUT, SALMON & STEELHEAD Minnesota Waters Winter Rainbow Trout Naas Creek - Dakota County Echo Lake, Lake County, MN Photo by Dan Callahan Photo by Joe Wolff See page 2 & cover for info

HONORABLE MENTION - MINNESOTA WATERS FIRST PLACE - FAMILY FISHING South Branch whitewater River, Winona County, MN Clearwater River, Beltrami County, MN 6 Photo by Gary Grabko Photo by Steve Young First Place - TROUT, SALMON & STEELHEAD brown Trout release - Houston County, MN Photo by Brian Schumacher

Second Place - TROUT, SALMON & STEELHEAD SECOND PLACE - MINNESOTA WATERS North Shore steelhead Cliff Pool Flute Reed River, Cook County, MN Houston County, MN Photo by John Vangsness Photo by Brian Schumacher 7 Caring For the Boundary Waters By Piper Hawkins-Donlin

pring in the North Country: chickadees sing their sweet tune; Swhite-throated sparrows whistle their clear “oh sweet Canada Canada Canada;” warblers flit through the cool understory; the sunlight illuminates the damp mossy bank of the stream. It’s a perfect day for fishing. Anyone who has fly fished the rivers and streams ofthe Boundary Waters has a favorite memory of these exciting, early spring trips. Though for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeastern Min- nesota to stay an ideal destination for remote fishing, it needs anglers like you and me to speak up. Those future memories are being threatened.

Sportsmen and women across the country have come together to form Sports- men for the Boundary Waters due to the risks posed by sulfide-ore copper mining operations proposed on the edge of the wilderness. Sulfide-ore copper mining A wilderness waterfall in the BWCAW. Photo Credit Brian Okeefe is a risky type of mining with a track record of serious water contamination. lurking in the depths, it’s a familiar story. With this type of mining, the interconnected lakes and rivers of the Boundary “I have always believed that fishing for Waters, home to brook trout, lake trout, brook trout is a spiritual thing and that walleye, bass, pike, and panfish, would those who engage in it sooner or later face an uncertain future. are touched with its magic,” writes Ol- son. “All trout fishermen, even the most For those of us who answer the call of sophisticated of the dry-fly purists, are the wilderness, it’s a risk we cannot take. boys at heart, with a boy’s wonder and There is too much at stake, and too many joy in a stream, the feel of it, the sounds, memories left to create. Few have cap- and the sense of being a part of its life tured the magic of the Boundary Waters and movement.” Wilderness and the vivid memories of a fishing trip up there better than Sigurd Olson fought hard to keep this Wilder- Olson. Olson spent 30 years guiding ca- ness protected for the next generation of noe trips in the Boundary Waters Wilder- anglers. Like many of us, Olson found ness and Canada’s Quetico Provincial the challenges of remote fishing to be in- Park. His connection to this part of the spiring and empowering. “Every place is state led him to fight for its protection a challenge, and finally I come to the big in the 1960s and 1970s, when the battle pool where the creek almost disappears to create the Wilderness was raging. In beneath a pine stump,” he wrote. “There THe BWCAW is home both to brook trout and some of the best native his quintessentially Minnesotan clas- the water is very deep below the twisted lake trout fishing in the continental us. Adam Steinhilber Photo. sic, A Singing Wilderness, Olson de- roots, deep enough to hold a monster. tailed the phenology of the Northwoods, The worm starts down quickly, goes out headwaters and there come to a perfect About the Author starting in spring, and working his way of sight, and then circles slowly around pool, dark as ebony and shaded by a through the seasons. His writings have in the eddy underneath.” huge branching spruce,” Olson writes. Piper Hawkins-Donlin influenced generations of Minnesotans, “It is a hard place to fish, for the bank is With deep roots in the Minnesota con- inspiring a connection to the uniquely Today, the Boundary Waters remain as high, but immediately there is a flash of servation movement, Piper grew up magnificent wilderness located on our a testament to Sigurd Olson’s dedication flame and out comes the prettiest trout of with a passion for preserving, restoring the day, dark with a crimson belly stripe, and exploring Minnesota’s wild places. a trout sheltered from the bright rays of Her grandfather, Art Hawkins, was a the sun.” waterfowl biologist who studied under conservation legend, Aldo Leopold. His Despite the fact that Olson fished these unique insight into hunting, fishing, and streams nearly one hundred years ago, conservation greatly influenced Piper’s his words still ring true; our kids can upbringing, and encouraged her to fol- fish the same spot for the elusive trout. low in his footsteps. She holds a degree Yet those precious lakes and streams are in Environmental Science and Manage- threatened by sulfide-ore copper min- ment from the University of Minnesota. ing proposed just miles from the South Piper is the Sporting Outreach Coordi- Kawishiwi River. This type of mining nator for the Boundary Waters Trust and has never been undertaken in the state Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters. of Minnesota, and has never been done A Wild Brook Trout. Photo Credit Craig Moorhead anywhere in the country without causing Editor’s note: The BWCAW is also the irreparable harm to wildlife and the wa- stronghold of Minnesota’s native lake northern border. and devotion to the Wilderness. He and ters. The Boundary Waters watershed is trout. MNTU believes that the protec- many other anglers have shown over the a rich and unique ecosystem, and one of tion of water quality and hydrology in In “Grandmother Trout,” from A Singing years that there is a value to conserving the few truly pristine world-class fishing BWCAW watersheds is paramount. All Wilderness, Olson relives a memory of wild places. Speaking up for this quiet destinations. Sigurd Olson made it his proposed activities, including any pro- fishing for brook trout as a 12-year old place and sharing it with the next gen- life’s goal to instill in us a respect for our posed mining activities, must be scru- boy. He recalls the smell of the stream, eration is key to its survival. Pollution beloved canoe country, and worked end- tinized to ensure that they will keep all the feel of a small fish in hand, and the would devastate the interconnected wa- lessly to defend it for future generations. surface and groundwater clean and safe, rapturous admiration of a brook trout’s terways that spawn the fish that inspire It is our turn to protect the legacy he left and not increase levels of mercury con- colors. For many of us who have spent a us to the chase each year. us. Take action at: tamination in fish. See the article in our spring day fishing the banks of Northern February 2014 newsletter outlining the Minnesota’s small streams, “Toward midafternoon, after fishing a SportsmenfortheBoundaryWaters.org dangers associated in mining sulfide ore bodies. 8 imagining what giants are mile upstream, I reach the spring-fed Fly Tying With Laughing Trout Fly Fishing

By Paul Johnson

re you a fan of the Satur- the same dubbing on a number of my day morning fishing shows? flies. Basic Pheasant Tail AWell, I’m not much of a fan Materials List either. I am always yelling at them to I will use the fly as a dropper in a double • Hook Nymph Hook, size 14-18 (my favorite size is 18) put the fish back in the water. They nymph rig or even use it as a dropper un- • Thread 8/0 Brown are all running around in $60,000.00 der a dry fly. • Tail 5 or 6 Pheasant Tail Fibers boats, holding the fish out of the wa- • Ribbing Gold Wire size small ter for minutes on end while they try If you have any questions, please feel • Abdomen Pheasant Tail and sell me $9.00 crank baits. This free to contact me. • Thorax Peacock Dubbing little nymph is a complete opposite of a $9.00 crank bait. Try one out on your next fishing trip, or maybe a dozen. The Basic Pheasant Tail costs only pennies to tie and, best of all, they catch fish. I will typically tie it on a size 18 nymph hook. The fly uses some pheasant tail fibers, gold wire and peacock dubbing. I really like the Wapsi Super Bright dubbing. I use

Tying Instructions:

Step 1. Step 2. Step 3. Step 4. Insert the hook into your vise and start At the bend of the hook, tie in a small Tie in a length of wire at the bend of the Lift the butt ends of the pheasant tail your tying thread at the 3/4 mark and clump of pheasant tail fibers. Here I book. Secure with only two tight wraps fibers and wrap the wire down to the lay a thread base back to the bend of used six fibers. Secure with only two of thread. shank of the hook, advancing your the hook. For this fly I’m using a Dai- tight wraps of thread. The tail should be tying thread to the 3/4 mark on your Riki #070 nymph hook, size 18. For about the hook shank in length. hook. the thread, I have Montana Fly Com- pany 8/0 in Dark Brown

Step 5. Step 6. Step 7. Step 8. Wrap the pheasant tail fibers forward Counter wrap the wire forward with Form a small, thin dubbing noodle with Form the thorax of the fly with the in touching turns to the 3/4 mark. Se- evenly spaced wraps to the 3/4 mark. the peacock dubbing. dubbing and whip finish. Go fish! cure with your tying thread and clip Secure with your tying thread and clip the excess. the excess.

9 Funding for Statewide Habitat Projects By John Lenczewski

n May 31, 2016 Governor Day- with wood inputs to provide greater be placed by volunteers from the Twin before settlement and land use practices ton signed into law the Legacy overhead cover and woody habitat. Cities Chapter to narrow the channel, in- altered the more stable flows which had OFunding bill which contains an creasing depth and cover for fish. Cross gradually created and maintained them. appropriation enabling Minnesota Trout Little Rock Creek (Benton County) veins and riffles will be placed to direct The streams will flow faster, deeper and Unlimited and its chapters to continue Little Rock Creek is one of a handful of stream flow and increase spawning- ar cooler, and provide vital overhead cover. restoring and enhancing habitat in more trout streams remaining in the St. Cloud eas. trout streams around the State. The ap- area. It suffers from a high sand bed- West Indian Creek (Wabasha County) propriation becomes available in July load, reduced base flow and an overly Southeast MN Projects West Indian Creek is tributary to the 2016, and will fund construction primar- wide stream channel which results in the The three projects described below share Zumbro River, located east of Zumbro ily in 2017 and 2018. Here is a brief accumulation of sand deposits through- a legacy of degraded habitat due to ag- Falls, MN and northwest of Plainview, summary of funded projects: out much of the channel. Several badly ricultural practices of the past century. MN. The project site is located a couple eroding streambanks also contribute The following example is typical of how miles upstream of the segment recently Keene Creek (St. Louis County) large amounts of sand and sediment. and why we improve habitat along trout improved by Hiawatha Chapter near the Keene Creek is one of Duluth’s top Earlier work by the Mid-Minnesota streams in this ecological region: Whippoorwill Campground. The upper brook trout fisheries, despite decades Chapter has improved portions of the Decades of erosion have led to wider, end of the project site contains shallow of impacts to this “urban” trout stream. stream, but the channel needs to be nar- shallower and warmer streams, and left pools, some high, eroding banks, and Keene Creek was hammered by a histor- rowed further in order to flush more sand a legacy of excessive streamside sedi- long stretches of overly wide, shallow ically severe flood in June 2012 which from the channel and expose the gravel ments which continually re-erode and channel filling with silt. Habitat condi- decimated brook trout habitat and left and cobble substrate necessary for trout cover in-stream habitat, food production tions worsen moving downstream - with the stream channel unstable. Keene spawning, food production and young areas and spawning habitat. Shallow higher eroding banks and many shallow begins in Hermantown and flows south of the year trout habitat. Wide, shallow rooted invasive trees often have taken rooted, invasive box elders. The deposi- through a forested park and enters Dulu- conditions are contributing to increased over the riparian corridors, out-compet- tion of eroded sediment here has wid- th above Skyline Drive. It then tumbles water temperatures. TU volunteers will ing native vegetation which better se- ened and braided the channel, and left down the hillside in a series of pools and continue work with the DNR placing cures soils, and reducing energy inputs too few deep pools. The project will in- runs before it enters the St Louis River brush mats and bundles in the stream to the stream. Projects remove invasive corporate some existing (old) habitat im- near Grassy Point. The Gitche Gumee channel to further narrow the channel trees and grade steep, eroding banks provement structures and improve their Chapter will concentrate effort here, be- throughout the reach. Local contractors with machinery to remove sediments. function, narrow the channel in places, ginning with a 1,500’ reach in the Her- will also be hired to stabilize the worst Importantly, this reconnects the stream remove braids, repair and slope eroding mantown park stretch where ground- bank erosion sites using woody material, to its floodplain. banks, and remove invasive trees to al- water inputs ensure good reproduction which also provides cover and encour- Eroding banks are sloped back to a more low deeper-rooted grasses to become and survival in the heat of August. The ages scouring of deeper holes for large gradual 3 to 1 slope and toe anchored established. project will stabilize the channel and in- trout. to curb erosion. Where feasible, more crease the amount of deep pool habitat sediments are removed (at 10 to 1 slope) Wisel Creek (Fillmore County) and overhead cover using large logs and Eagle Creek (Scott County) to recreate “bankfull” terraces. Banks Wisel Creek is an important fishery boulders. Eagle Creek originates as two branches are then seeded with deep rooted grasses which enters into a high quality sec- - the west (main) branch in Shakopee, to secure soils within the entire corridor tion of the South Fork of the Root River Stewart River (Lake County) MN and the east branch in Savage, MN and keep them from eroding in high wa- southeast of Preston, MN. The project The Stewart River, located outside Two – which converge in Savage and flow ter. The sloped banks allow floodwaters reach near “Chickentown” will connect Harbors, MN, is known for its produc- into the Minnesota River. The stream to quickly spread out into the floodplain miles of quality habitat and is a resilient tive wild steelhead fishery, but also sup- has a small self-sustaining population and slow down, reducing the destructive complex of streams. MNTU’s recent ports a wild brook trout fishery in its of wild brown trout and has not been impact of a flood. brook trout focused project on Newburg cooler headwaters. The project is a con- stocked since 1978. The channel is wide, Creek is located a few miles upstream. tinuation of the watershed-scale restora- shallow and dominated with sandy sub- Overhead cover habitat is created both The habitat enhancement methods de- tion effort which MNTU began here in strate. The primary factors limiting trout by increasing the stream’s depth through scribed in the agricultural area example 2014. Several in-stream projects have abundance are limited spawning habitat narrowing the channel or installing rock above will be used on approximately been completed, as well as several miles 7,000 feet of stream. The Hiawatha of riparian plantings to restore canopy to Chapter will coordinate work and vol- lower water temperatures. This project unteers. will restore another steelhead nursery area on the Little Stewart River dam- Money Creek (Winona County) aged by the 2012 flood, creating a stable, Money Creek is located in a small se- properly functioning stream channel, cluded valley just a few miles south of with deep pools and woody cover which Interstate 90 near Witoka, MN. Money provide habitat for steelhead, brook trout Creek faces the typical degradation de- and other aquatic organisms. scribed in the agricultural area example, and the habitat enhancement methods Clearwater River (Beltrami County) described above will be used. The Win- The Clearwater River is a popular trout Cres Chapter will coordinate work and stream located northwest of Bemi- volunteers. dji, MN and utilized by students from the Headwaters Chapter’s Trout in the Statewide riparian corridor mainte- Classroom program. The project is lo- nance: MNTU also secured funds to cated within a contiguous 7 mile stretch enable TU chapters to target work on of publicly accessible trout water. The their priority home waters. Many stream project is located on the site of an old corridors are being choked by shallow- logging splash dam, and has been heav- rooted, invasive trees which are severely ily grazed with no cattle exclusion from limiting macroinvertebrate (food) pro- the river. The stream banks have been duction and trout abundance. Many denuded and trampled down, and the streams with good groundwater input channel is overly wide and braided. The need only the removal of this detrimen- shallow, silt-filled channel warms the tal canopy to enable the reestablishment river, covers substrates essential for food of deeply rooted riparian grasses, gradu- production and spawning, and lacks pool al narrowing of the channel, and benefi- habitat. Initial work involves installa- cial sunlight to reach streams and trigger tion of exclusion fencing to keep cattle the food production cycle. The DNR is out of the riparian corridor, to allow veg- A habitat-improved reach of Garvin Brook Sparkles in the developing a prioritized list of stream etation to become reestablished, provide sunlight, This next season will bring habitat work to thousands of corridors needing only vegetation treat- channel stability, shading, future inputs feet of streams and rivers around the state. ments. Funding can cover tools, ma- of woody cover, and to intercept runoff and shortage of deeper pools. This proj- weir plunge pools, and by placing cover terials and added labor (in addition to from the pasture. Several bank erosion ect will improve approximately 1,000 structures in select stream banks. These volunteer labor) to conduct tree cutting, “hot spots” may be treated feet of the East Branch. Coir logs, brush log or wooden structures help recreate brushing, controlled burns, spraying of 10 bundles, and toe wood revetments will the undercut banks which had existed invasive plants, and more. A Gift and a Dance By Bob Wagner

t might be hard to picture the North restore, conserve and protect coldwater Shore as a gift. Call it instead a grand fisheries and educate people. Anglers Iresource, the world’s largest fresh also can join LSSA (Lake Superior water sea, or God’s gift to fly fishers. Steelhead Association). Both of these Call it the Sawtooth Range of brook groups are working hard to improve trout heaven, 2700 miles of shoreline, the dance. Of course you’re already a or a waterfall-wilderness symbiosis. Or member of TU... so bring in new mem- maybe call it a steelhead’s secret wish. bers! The North Shore gift needs to be If I were a steelhead, my wish would be shared and the fish need more advocates. to live naturalized in a designated catch There’s lots of room on the dance floor and release wild fishery. Home truly is and I hope to see you there! the North Shore.

Whatever you or fish might think about the shore and the lake, to me it’s a gift with a dance. A gift that has blessed my wife and I. We have danced with dozens of steelie partners this spring and released them to dance again with another partner. This spring was an exceptional year for dancing with steelies. I recall my social dance class at Mounds View High School and I remember one aspect of the class was thanking your partner at the end of the dance, regardless if you stepped on each others toes (which happened a lot). But how exactly does an angler thank a fish? Obviously a great way to thank a fish is to do something positive for its habitat, its home, or its survival. Yes, join TU and you can help Hooked up and dancing with Bob Wagner and a Springtime dance partner Bamboo on the North Shore Trout in the Classroom Update By Benji Kohn

rout in the Classroom (TIC), which is a component of our Tbroader educational venture “Connecting Students with Watersheds through Hands-On Learning” has had a great season! From releasing trout in the Vermillion and Whitewater watersheds, to teaching students to cast, to exploring aquatic macroinvertebrates it has been busy. The season was capped by a summit that was held this spring in St. Paul, MN with hundreds of students and educators attending. Another season is almost upon us, with educator trainings about to take place and MNTU gearing up for an exciting fall of fishing, educa- Students observing macroinver- A student gently holds a rain- tion, trout rearing and much more! We tebrates in a tabletop aquarium bow trout ready to be released remain grateful and thankful for the funding from funding from Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) that made all of this possible. Check out some of the photos from our successful first year!

A rainbow trout waits to swim Fingerling rainbow trout from Students learn the finer points of casting on the lawn with spin into the Vermillion River TIC ready to be released fishing equipment in St. Paul, MN 11 Invasive Species - Threats to Our Streams By Dan Callahan

s trouters, we are observant of A dense stand of non-native garlic mustard along the path to a didn’t get out with the brush. nature. One way to help our metro area trout stream. • Volunteer with us when we’re doing Astreams is to work with nature Earthworm Issues But I keep seeing it in new areas, even invasive removal days along trout and avoid spreading invasive species. in my yard, because I’ve been unknow- streams. We’ve cleared out more Did you know that you’re supposed ingly spreading the seeds via the dirt on than a mile of buckthorn on the Ver- Invasives can cause negative effects to put your leftover worms and night- my boots. The same thing has happened million River east of Farmington. in several ways. They can be so viru- crawlers in the garbage? All Minnesota along our trout streams. You can see it lent that they displace or reduce native earthworms came from Europe or Asia. on the lower Kinnickinnic River, in the We’d like to start doing wild parnsip re- plants, this can change habitat, which, in At least seven species are invading our state park below River Falls, growing moval, but this is tricky stuff. Getting turn, affects native insects and animals. hardwood forests and eating up all the along the angler pathways and heading plant juice on your skin doesn’t imme- Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, leaf litter on the ground, which is caus- off into the woods. Stopping the spread diately cause a burning sensation. But it and carp are three examples of aquatic ing the loss of tree seedlings, wildflow- of garlic mustard is easy if you take a turns into a serious chemical burn when invasives. ers and ferns, according to U of M re- few basic precautions. it gets hit by sunlight, because the sun’s searchers. The ‘hot zones’ have spread ultraviolet light activates it. (See photo Non-native species aren’t all bad. We from water public access sites. How did below). And unlike poison ivy’s oil, it’s rely on them in gardens and landscaping, they get here, and why are they a prob- Help Fight Invasives with not as easy to wash off. Be careful if you and in fishing. Brown trout originated lem? See the U’s really interesting web These Basic Steps work to remove it. across the Atlantic in Europe. Brook page for more information: http://www. trout are native to Minnesota. Browns extension.umn.edu/garden/insects/find/ • Learn what invasives look like. A Check out the DNR’s website with all will outcompete brookies (and eat them), european-earthworms-in-minnesota/ couple of common invasives are be- the resources you need to ID invasives, so brown trout are bad if you’re trying to low. and prevent their spread. You can learn preserve native brookies. Even native • Keep a wire barbecue brush in your how to eradicate them and where you species can cause problems, in certain car, so when you are done fishing, can report an invasion in a natural area, contexts. Boxelder trees on southern Garlic Mustard you can brush off the bottom of your so the DNR or another agency can re- Minnesota trout streams are “weedy” boots or waders to remove all mud, spond. and not very strong. Their roots don’t Garlic mustard is public enemy number dirt, and the seeds you are inadver- hold streambank soils as well as prairie one in my woods. It crowds out native tently carrying. Also brush off your Here’s the link: http://www.dnr.state. plants do, and often the trees collapse the vegetation, and along with buckthorn, clothes, and especially your pants mn.us/invasives/index.html banks. changes our riparian woodlands. I’m cuffs. staying on top of it, hitting it early in • When you get home, wash off your Whether non-native or native, the issue the spring before other plants come up. boots to remove all the mud you revolves around species “escaping.” My lily-of-the valley flowers, which spread from underground roots, have escaped their railroad tie enclosure, and are pop- ping up through my asphalt driveway. An ivy that my wife carefully planted to fill in a shady planting spot in our rock garden has escaped into the edge of my oak woods. I was in a panic when I dis- covered it, so I blasted it with Roundup last year.

Injury resulting from conatct with wild parsnip and subsequent sun exposure

This spring I found it down the hill, beyond my ‘perimeter’. It’s getting away. I feel like I’m trying to contain a zombie apocalypse. Learn more below about ac- tions you can take as an angler to make a difference. 12 2017 FLY FISHING FILM AND VIDEO SHOWCASE At the Great Waters Fly Fishing Expo

March 18th, 2017

Presented by Minnesota Trout Unlimited Details at www.greatwatersflyexpo.com Finding Naas Creek - The Lost Stream An Addendum to the Lost Trout Streams of Burnsville By Dan Callahan

n the MNDNR web page for the corner on Cambridge Court, and Unnamed Stream #4, under ac- walk back to entrance. Ocess, it says: “There is no legal access to this stream. Access would While not maintained like most access require hiking nearly a mile down points, it is clearly defined. Even though the railroad tracks west from Nichols it looks like you’re walking onto some- (sic) Road. Railroad tracks are private one’s private land, you’re not. property and persons walking them are guilty of trespass.” Once you get past the backyards, look down the hill into the woods, and you’ll The article is correct about tresspass. see the brown gate with a refuge sign. But there is legal, public access, on The gate blocks vehicle access to the wildlife refuge property. It’s just not old road the Naas family built down the marked on any map that I’ve ever seen. bluff to their trout ponds. It’s extremely DNR fisheries people didn’t even overgrown, and you have to pick your know about it. way around, or under, blown down trees. The infestation of invasive garlic mus- This “secret’’ entrance to the Minne- tard plants is the worst I have ever seen. sota Valley Wildlife Refuge is to the Make sure when you get back to your The Well hidden Entrance to the Trail to Nass Creek left of a house at 3104 Hayes Drive car, you brush off your boot soles so in Burnsville, hiding in plain sight you don’t transport any of the tiny seeds tion). can stay to the left (west) edge of the in the well-mown lawn between the home, or to your next trout stream. Be- ponds, along the woods, then angle north two houses. The only clue is a curb cause there are no maps, I’ve used Dako- It’s best to explore the riverbottoms be- through the ankle-deep wetland to the cut, and two small signs on posts near ta County’s Interactive GIS map aerial fore mid-June. There is lot of giant reed railroad trestle and Lower Naas Creek. green utility boxes, announcing this 10 photos to navigate around, or Google canary grass you can get lost in. You’re foot wide strip of lawn is actually ref- Maps (use the Google Maps Lite ver- also going to walk through wetlands and Let us know if you visit and if you hap- uge property. There is no parking lot. sion to get the March 2016 aerial photos. across boggy, spring areas, so wear at pen to catch any trout. New information There isn’t even parking allowed on The regular Google Earth interface just least hippers. There are extensive wet, is important! the street in front of it. I park around shows a smeary, three-year-old rendi- boggy areas in the headwaters. But you New Fly Shop!

Anglers headed north to the Arrow- head in NE MN should stop in Grand Marais, MN and check out the latest offerings from a brand new fly shop, Fly Box and Company. Check them Bold l Innovative l Imaginative out online today: 18 Years of Professional Craftsmanship - Fishing Rods As Individual As You Are www.flyboxmn.com www.lakeladyrods.com - [email protected] - 218-562-4512

13 Covered Waters 2017 Fly Expo Unveiled Book Review New, Larger Location in St. Paul! By John Hunt By Jade Thomason

A busy exhibitor booth at the Great Waters Fly Fishing Expo

f you are like me, a decision to read a treks to “fish camp” on the Pere- Mar his past March, Minnesota Trout door spey casting demonstrations! particular book can rise from many quette, of fishing the hex hatch with Bob Unlimited managed the Great Isources. It can stem from a friend’s Linsenman, and of searching for Volk- Waters Fly Fishing Expo for the A brand new aspect of the 2016 Expo recommendation, perhaps a catchy title er’s “Frenchman’s Pond”. T first time. First off, on behalf of expo was our Fly Fishing Film and Video or book cover, or maybe an intriguing management, I would like to thank all of Event. We screened local film submis- review. In the case of Joseph Hey- Heywood covers a lot of ground, both the volunteers, exhibitors, presenters and sions from across the Midwest and wood’s “Covered Waters – Tempests geographically and figuratively, and I attendees who participated in the 2016 gave away rousing prizes to talented of a Nomadic Trouter”, it was a combi- appreciated his commentary on coach- expo. A special thanks to Baird Helge- recipients during a fun evening event. nation of reasons. The title first caught ing youth sports. In one instance, he son and his family for their support and This took place on the Saturday eve- my eye on the library bookshelf amidst recounts how a goalie in a squirt-level assistance in making the transition to ning of the expo and will continue in others of the same genre, but the brief hockey game looks beyond the 5 goals MNTU management. We appreciate all 2017. We are seeking short films and synopsis provided on the back cover he allowed in a game, telling his dad, of the effort that the Helgeson family has videos that showcase fly fishing in the that included references to Michigan’s “Yeah, Dad...but I stopped five others, put in over the years and look forward Upper Midwest. Shoot some video of U.P., the U.S. Air Force Strategic Air and in practice I didn’t stop any!” One to continuing Tom’s legacy in the future. your experience of connecting with the Command, and strip fishing in France chapter consists of excerpts from the The change in management and venue water, hooking the big one, or that day seemed too good to pass up. journal the author kept while on active could have been a trying and rocky pro- when all the fish were rising. We will duty in the USAF, flying air support dur- cess, but due to the unending positivity begin taking submissions in the com- I read the 2015 version of the book, ing the Vietnam War. As someone raised and flexibility of all of those involved it ing months so keep an eye out on the which I found out in the introduction after the war concluded, I found his first- was a tremendously enjoyable and suc- expo social media pages for announce- is an update of the original that was hand account of the contrast between the cessful event. This year we had many ments. Specific guidelines, examples first published in 2003. The synopsis intensity and futility of the action sober- new additions to the event including new of prizes and contest rules can be found on the cover did not disappoint. Raised ing. Heywood also candidly shares his exhibitors, over a dozen new speakers on the expo website. in a military family, Heywood’s roots apprehension of returning to the river and food trucks offering diverse eating Minnesota Trout Unlimited has always range from New York to the Deep after a series of strokes that could have options. This next year we plan to con- participated in the Great Waters Fly South, and eventually to Michigan’s ended his life. I especially enjoyed the tinue to strive to have new and exciting Fishing Expo and over the years has U.P. In the book, his musings are or- chapter that describes his adventures in components as well as continuing the el- introduced thousands to the organiza- ganized roughly by decade, with a sec- tagging along as an observer with sev- ements that have worked so well in the tion and conservation ethic we strong- tion dedicated to the 60’s, another to eral game wardens in the U.P., and his past. ly hold. Management of the event this the 70’s and 80’s, and a final section observations of how the conservation past season brought increased engage- called “Ending the Century”. Within ethic is (or in some cases is not) con- In 2017 we will move the expo to Ham- ment and interest in MNTU and we each section, separate chapters provide ferred from one generation to the next. line University in St. Paul, MN. This are looking forward to coming years the author’s reflections on his state of new venue is centrally located within the of creating resource advocates. A con- mind during specific occasions of life. All in all, I found “Covered Waters” a Twin Cities metro area, easily accessible tinuing theme we would like to express very entertaining book. As in real life, the via the freeway system, and, most impor- is that we are very open to any ideas, Not infrequently, Heywood’s reflec- fish are not always big and life doesn’t tantly, gives us the space we need for the concepts and suggestions for the expo. tions crystallize around fishing. Af- always turn out as hoped. Heywood re- expo to grow. We are gaining thousands Send us an email or call us any time ter college at Michigan State, he put minds us, however, that it is friends and of square feet of exhibit space which with ideas for the venue, organization, down roots in the southwest corner of family that are the foundations of the ex- will allow for more exhibitors to attend programming, exhibitors, brands you the Wolverine State, and the waters periences that form the memories of life. as well as an expanded fly casting area would like represented, or any other he describes fishing throughout the complete with seating for demonstration thoughts. book will be familiar to readers that viewing. Hamline also offers larger and have fished both north and south of the more conveniently located presentation Email: [email protected] Mackinac Bridge. There are recollec- space as well as access to a large swim- Phone: 612-562-9242 tions of more than 20 years of annual ming pool which we will be using for in- 14 An Exceptional Angler And a Significant Donation! By Mark Reisetter

ecently, an email arrived in regarded in the fly fishing and fly tying the Montana Rockies, three months on for the IFFF. Previously, Earl’s family my inbox informing me that world, as well as a V.I.P. in the history of the White River at Cotter, AR, and five donated his extensive tying equipment RWhitewater State Park’s Natu- Minnesota’s contributions to the sport! months in the Florida Keys, fishing dur- and materials to his fly tying group in ralist, Sara Holger, had passed along Earl was born and raised in Winona, ing the week and tying flies on the week- Cotter, Arkansas. In 2010, Earl re- my name and contact information. MN, graduating from Winona High ends. ceived the Lew Jewett Memorial Life The email went on to say that the cor- in 1947. He began trout fishing in the Award from the IFFF. respondent’s uncle had been a life-long many spring creeks of Southeast Minne- In late 1996, he purchased his home fly fisherman and fly tier, and because sota in the mid-1940s. When he began overlooking the White River in Cot- Jim and Barb Daily have seen the good their uncle now had Alzheimer’s and his schooling at Dunwoody, he partially ter, AR, where Win-Cres TU’er Mike work of MN TU with the stream habi- could no longer use his collection of tat improvement work on nearby Mill fishing equipment, they were looking Creek, and know that Uncle Earl would to donate some fly rods to the local be pleased that his valuable collection State Park. They knew that some of of rods and reels is going to support the equipment was more valuable, and our organization, and thereby benefit- since I was a member of Trout Unlim- ting the sport that was the lifelong pas- ited, they also wondered if the collec- sion of Earl A. Stanek. tion’s value could partially be used in fundraising for TU, a cause their uncle would wholeheartedly support. Editor’s Note: The fly rod and reel collection of Earl A. Stanek will be When Jim and Barb Daily invited me available at Trout Unlimited Chap- into their living room in Chatfield, ter Banquets and Fundraisers around MN, the next week, I was greeted by the state, spread out over the next few an array of metal tubes and rods that years. Plan to attend your local ben- was breathtaking. I quickly saw that quets and look for rods and reels from Barb’s uncle had been a collector, in- Earl’s collection. You can own a fine deed, and a collector with fine taste. At piece of angling merchandise, and a A few rods from the vast collection of angler Earl A. Stanek first glance, I saw a number of Sage, remarkable piece of Minnesota An- Loomis, Scott, and Winston rods; upon gling History—while, at the same time, a closer inspection, I saw a Jim Payne funded his education by commercially Jeresek visited him on a fishing trip. supporting our phenomenal cold-wa- and a Harry Boyd bamboo rod as well. tying flies. He was paid 35 cents a doz- Earl and his fly rods have traveled the ter fishery! About two hours later, we had made en, which cured him of ever wanting to world; he could double haul and shoot three groups of rods: a stack of rods continue in that profession! a 75-foot cast for Tarpon, and did so in that would serve WWSP in their en- deavors to get people fly fishing; a sec- He enlisted in the Navy, then got his ond group of rods that were too heavy formal education and became an engi- for Driftless streams, were not of great neer for 3M in 1957, where he worked value, and/or with condition issues; for over 30 years. It was at 3M that he and a third group of twenty-eight rods got back into fly fishing and fly tying. that TU would definitely be interested He was even able to spend 15% of his in. Then they told me their kitchen ta- time at work with a project of his choice. ble had a bunch of fly reels they hoped With this portion of his time, Earl chose I could look over. to work as an engineering consultant with the 3M Leisure Time Products Group, led by the legendary Lew Jewett as Project Manager.

When 3M acquired the Scientific An- glers fly line business from the Leon L. Jim and Barb Daily reached out to MNTU to donate parts of Earl’s Martuch family, Jewett, who wanted to collection of fishing gear to help raise funds for MNTU. develop a high quality fly reel to complete the SA package, sent Earl on a fish- Florida, Costa Rica, Yucatan, Belize, ing trip for Washington State Steelhead and Venezuela. He considered bonefish with Leon Martuch to evaluate a number “the greatest fly rod fish of all fish” and of reels being offered by the SA inven- Earl fished for these annually in Florida, tors. None of those reels measured up to fourteen times in the Bahamas, and nu- Jewett’s expectations, so he asked Earl merous times in Belize. to design the fly reel that became the 3M/Scientific Anglers “System Two.” Earl was a pioneer in his exploratory Earlier, when 3M had purchased the trips, many of them with fellow 3M Phillipson Fly Rod Company in Denver, engineer David Johnson. They fished CO, Jewett had sent Earl out to learn the the Babine and Dean Rivers in North- basic process and machinery needed to ern British Columbia in 1968, 1969, and manufacture glass and graphite fly rods. 1971—long before they were known Earl made several trips with Bill Phil- destinations. Earl’s fly rods have caught Earl A. Stanek poses with his lipson to buy new steel rod mandrels, large brook trout in the Minipi River and exquisite flytying masterpiece that raised over $14,000 and new rod wrapping machines. Then, Goose Bay, Labrador. How about At- when 3M made the decision to move the lantic salmon near Murmansk, Russia? production process to New Richmond, Or sea run browns in Tierra del Fuego? Most of the finer reels I saw (including WI, Earl re-established the fly rod pro- Earl traveled to Australia and New Zea- Loop, Fin-Nor, and Scientific Angler) duction line at the new plant. land numerous times, as well as Alaska, were larger reels used when their uncle Chile, Argentina, and Brazil. At last fished for tarpon, bonefish, salmon, or Earl never married, perhaps because he count, the number of fishing trips Earl steelhead; but there were a bunch of was too busy fishing. When he retired has taken to exotic places is 60. smaller reels very suitable for the rods from 3M in late 1988 as a Corporate that WWSP was going to get. Engineer – Tape Division, he bought a Earl was also a renowned fly tier, and travel trailer, and, for eight years, led the created numerous fly art objects, such But who is this uncle? That, I came life of total, mobile, retirement fly fish- as the glass dome he’s holding in the at- to find out, is the real story. Earl A. ing. Each year, he would follow his es- tached photo, which raised over $14,000 tablished route, spending four months in Stanek is widely-known and highly 15 The Lost Trout Streams of Burnsville Part Three

By Dan Callahan

his is the third and last chapter on jewel Naas Creek, to honor the family, out of two big stagnating old trout ponds, of watercress you can buy in a store— the Lost Trout Streams of Burns- and because it gives this beautiful little dammed by beavers. The temperature but eating this free meal from your trout Tville and Eagan. stream a personality. Death Row-sitters findings on Naas Creek, though discour- stream might lead to a Giardia parasite deserve more than just a number. As for aging, are not a trout stream-killer. infection (aka Beaver Fever). When the There are four small streams in Burns- it being “unfishable”, I’ve talked to mul- description of symptoms includes “ex- ville and Eagan on the official state tiple people who claim to have caught Eagle Creek in Savage and the Vermil- plosive diarrhea”, I’ll stick to the store- Designated Trout Stream (DTS) list. trout in it. And I fished it just fine in mid- lion River east of Highway 52 support bought stuff. Back on topic: So, after They all originate from coldwater May, though I didn’t catch anything. I trout, even though some logger locations learning so many cool things about this springs at the base of the Minnesota don’t catch trout in a lot of places that in those streams record summer temps stream--its history, and its potential— I River bluffs. In Burnsville, Unnamed I’ve seen plenty of fish while on DNR spiking above 75 degrees. During these think the DNR should return to pushing #4 and Unnamed #7 flow north through electrofishing surveys. It is an excellent hot times, the trout aren’t swimming next for restoration, not premature declara- the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife candidate for restoration since the land it to the logger. They’re taking refuge in tion that the trout stream is dead. More- Refuge into Black Dog Lake, which flows through is permanently protected, cooler, groundwater-fed areas, upstream over, because Naas is protected entirely flows to the Minnesota River. In Eagan, like the similar spring creek we’ve re- or downstream from the sampling point. within the Minnesota Valley National Harnack (aka Black Dog Creek) and cently restored on the Refuge near the On the Vermillion, they go up into spring Wildlife Refuge, there isn’t any pres- Kennealy flow north through Fort Snel- Mall of America, Hust Creek. tributaries like the South Branch of the sure coming from a developer to get ling State Park and eventually reach the Vermillion River, and into South Creek, rid of the trout stream designation, so Minnesota River. Last year, DNR Trout Habitat Specialist in Lakeville. Trout could find the same they can build something incompatible. Mark Nemeth offered to help us gather kind of refuge on Naas Creek, if we However, removing the trout stream All but Kennealy are on the DNR’s temperature data on Naas and the other breach the pond. Breaching would nar- designation would relieve the City of metaphorical Death Row. The DNR streams on Death Row. In the spring he row the creek and cool it. Breaching also Burnsville from its responsibility to last year proposed dropping the three put in loggers to record temps every 15 would allow trout to move upstream into stop thermally polluting Lower Naas from the DTS, removing protections. minutes. He pulled them last fall though spring tributaries that have been inacces- Creek with excessively warm summer In paperwork, DNR officials argued not very easily. Mark had to dig through sible since the Naas family dammed the stormwater. the streams currently had no trout in the debris from a high bank that col- trout ponds 60 years ago. them, and they were small and “unfish- lapsed into the stream, right on top of Minnesota rules protect trout streams able.” We (Twin Cities TU and MNTU) his Lower Naas Creek logger. He used I was amazed by how much habitat there with a thermal water quality standard argued that the DNR was jumping the a metal detector. The first two times, he is in these seemingly-small rills. From a that says a discharge cannot materi- gun. These streams used to have trout found only an old railroad spike. The typical surface photography angle, I shot ally increase the stream’s temperature. in them when the DNR stocked them. third time, he came up with the logger a watercress-choked tributary that didn’t “Materially” is a disputable term. In They haven’t been stocked in years, and its crucial evidence. Mark told me seem to have any habitat. But when I put 1994, water temperature monitoring and in the case of Unnamed #4, the recently the preliminary data from that my GoPro camera underwater, a mini on Eagle Creek showed that the city’s DNR had filed a restoration plan in logger shows the temperature on the water world opened up. I noticed how conversion of a spring-fed tributary the early 2000s, but never followed main stem of Naas Creek, below where sparking clear the water is. No sediment, into large stormwater pond for new through. Recent temperature and fish- the City of Burnsville’s stormwater from just this pristine, rocky bottom, which development was “materially increas- eries survey data was lacking too. River Hills runs into it, has rose above is an insect factory and spawning area. ing” the temperature of the main stem 72 degrees during summer thunder- I also noticed the watercress created ex- of Eagle Creek, below the tributary’s In Part 1, I wrote about discovering that storms. 72 is considered the threshold tensive overhead cover for small fish to inflow. The city decided the best way Unnamed #4 actually used to be the for a trout stream designation. hide under. By the way, it turns out wa- to mitigate it was to divert the tributary Cedar Hills Trout Farm in Burnsville in tercress is actually a non-native invasive away from Eagle Creek. Thanks to the the late 1950s and early 1960s. I even He says his Upper Naas Creek logger, species that spreads across the surface of Lower Naas Creek logging data, we found the 88-year-old owner, Marianne upstream of the stormwater inflow, also cold springs. This is fine for tiny trout, appear to have documented that Burns- Naas, who showed me newspaper ar- spiked above 72 at times, but not during but not great for aquatic vegetation that ville’s stormwater inflow from Cedar- ticles and photos of its hey-day. Since stormwater events. Instead it was during doesn’t appreciate watercress blotting bridge Creek is materially increasing then, it is “Unnamed #4” no more to the sunniest hot summer days. The log- out the sun. Even further by the way, I the temperature of Naas, making it too me. I call this little watery ger monitored the stream after it flowed read on the web that this is the same kind warm for the stream’s existing desig- 16 time, both feet went through the sedge ville’s stormwater system flow joins it, mat, and I was suddenly sunk up to my showed instances when the water tem- waist, and sinking fast, in 20 years of silt perature spiked slightly above brook that had settled behind this beaver dam. trout levels. First-hand observations It was getting into my hip boots. “How also show that massive erosion results deep did this slow, thick quicksand go?” from the stormwater. I thought. “Nobody knows where I am, and I’m going to sink here. All they’ll The cool thing about trout streams in find is my tennis shoes along the tracks, Minnesota, pun intended, is their cool- where I took them off to put on my hip ness is protected. Thermal pollution of boots.” Then I remembered some advice trout streams is not allowed. I read somewhere about this situation. You’re not supposed to struggle. You’re In 1994 on Eagle Creek in Savage, just supposed to spread out your arms and up the Minnesota River from Burns- The underwater world of a Naas Creek Tributary legs and belly flop down, to spread your ville, studies showed that Savage had weight across the top of the mire. So I ponded a tributary and send stormwa- nated use: a trout stream. to the tracks. The flooding had washed did. ter runoff into it, raising water tem- But the DNR knew that, already. away tons of rock and soil alongside the “God,” I thought, “I hope the people peratures on Eagle Creek. Rather than If you Google “DNR unnamed stream tracks. I shot pictures and emailed them driving by on the Cedar Avenue Bridge redesign expensive changes upstream, #4”, you’ll come to a MNDNR web- to the city staff, who alerted the railroad can’t see me. I look like an idiot.” Savage avoided the problem by di- page describing it. It says: “Stream to the damage. They responded, but not So I stretched my arms out in front of verted the tributary away from Eagle #4 is the largest of the designated in the way I had hoped. Instead of re- me, holding with my nine-foot fly rod Creek. Problem solved. trout streams in this area, but it is still storing Cedarbridge Creek’s own culvert sideways with both hands, and pushed it a small stream. This creek has been at that location, spending a little more down into the quaky surface, speculating Burnsville had the same idea back in compromised repeatedly by urban de- money up front to fix years of problems, whether I would break it when I pulled the mid-1960s when it designed the velopment in the adjacent headwaters (and saving Naas Creek at the same myself forward, but it didn’t break, and stormwater management system for area. Storm water is discharged into time), they stuck with the Control of I was able to lift my legs out behind me this area. All urban runoff was piped the upper reaches of the watershed Nature philosophy: Just pile MORE rip- as I pulled. So, I just kept pulling myself to flow into an existing, unnamed creek after routine storm events. These dis- rap in that place, armor the tracks some forward on my belly across the top of the that flowed under the railroad tracks charges increase the temperature of the more, and continue sending the polluting goo like that, until I got close enough to through an opening that had been creek making it unsuitable for trout for stormwater downstream to Naas Creek. the old dam. Then I lunged across the in place for decades, rolling merrily some time after the storm event. No It’s not a stellar stream. But heck yeah, short stretch of open water behind the along until it reached Black Dog Lake. trout were sampled in the last two as- we should be breaching dams and open- dam, grabbed a branch, and pulled my- If you look at any map, any GIS sys- sessments, and it is unlikely any trout ing up fish passage to upper Naas Creek! self out. Man I smelled bad. I washed tem, and talk to just about any official, remain in this stream. The stream Now, before you go looking for your out my shirt in the stream, and put it it looks like that is still the case. does has (sic) value in maintaining the pitchfork and torch to storm DNR Head- back on.And then, I went on to catch the unique biota found in the adjacent fen.” quarters in St. Paul, realize this little trout biggest brown trout of my life. However, now we know that the rail- stream has little fishing value, compared road or someone else closed the under- One way to save Naas Creek from to major streams. The DNR is focusing No. I went home. So remember to crossing and filled it in. So stormwater the Cedarbridge stormwater inflow is efforts and money on trout fisheries that to divert it, like Savage did. Reopen provide the most fishing opportunities, a dedicated culvert under the railroad such as stocking more rainbows in the bed just for Cedarbridge. Then its Vermillion River. People can take home stormwater would never reach Naas these hatchery trout for dinner (it’s still Creek. catch- and-release only for wild brown trout). The Vermillion has about 19.5 I have been told by many different miles of designated trout water. people in government that the railroad Naas Creek has about 728 feet of rea- does what it wants to do within its sonably fishable water, according to my right of way, and isn’t very responsive. Google Maps measuring tool. That’s if They did respond one day, when they you fish from the railroad tracks down- couldn’t control Nature. John McPhee stream to the overhead power lines, wrote an awesome book in 1989 called which lead to Xcel Energy’s Black Dog “The Control of Nature”. He featured Plant. Its smokestack dominates the several essays about ambitious public skyline. works projects designed to bend Na- ture to our will. One of his stories pre- I walked along the grassy stream bank dicted New Orleans would be flooded under the power line, headed for Black someday, despite massively expensive Dog Lake, I noticed the grasses had flood control projects. It took until changed to sedges. With my next step, 2005, but Hurricane Katrina proved my left foot plunged through the float- him right. ing sedge mat, sinking until I was down A former trout pond warms the water on NAas Creek over my left hip boot. I sat back, and Cedarbridge Creek had its own little pushed away with my right foot and grab a sturdy branch as a walking stick is managed to flow farther down the Katrina on August 16, 2015. Four walking stick until I could scoot back when you go exploring these little trout tracks, into Naas Creek. This doesn’t inches of rain fell in just a few hours. to less shaky ground. Lesson learned: streams in Burnsville and Eagan. impact the upstream areas where we It continued raining the next two days. Always have a walking stick down here. can still put back the brookies. But I wondered if Cedarbridge Creek was There are plenty of fallen branches in Going Forward on Naas Creek there is no question this unwelcome being overwhelmed by the system that the woods to choose from, as you’re stormwater is degrading trout habitat directly shunts water from the streets, walking toward the stream. You should Draft results show upper Naas Creek is in lower Naas Creek. through short culvert pipes, into the also watch for floating quagmire behind cold enough to support brook trout. The stream’s narrow valley. I slogged down old, breached beaver dams along the best improvement will be breaching the The best way to restore lower Naas to the impoundment at the bottom of creek. Try bouncing up and down on the old trout ponds that are warming the wa- Creek, is to restore the stormwater cul- Cedarbridge’s ravine, and was stunned ground when you get near one. If a lot of ter by spreading it out. The short length vert that puts the polluted runoff back to see water overflowing the impound- the surrounding area bounces with you, of this spring creek means it won’t be a on its original, intended course. ment’s banks, creating a waterfall that head for higher ground. robust fishery, but certainly a valuable was eroding away a huge area of dirt stream to restore native species to the And as a side benefit, all the maps will below it. The water was surging back I learned this lesson about eight years U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Min- be correct again. into the stream’s original course—the ago, trying to fish behind an old beaver nesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. one it followed before the railroad pond on Harnack Creek, the Eagan trout The DNR decision makers should drop Editor’s Note: Go visit Naas Creek for closed its culvert, the one it followed stream on DNR Death Row. I was wear- plans to drop this stream from the desig- yourself! Find the directions on how before the City of Burnsville decided ing hip boots, and started walking on the nated trout streams list. It deserves con- to get to this hidden gem on page 13. to divert the creek through an under- upstream side of the old beaver pond, tinued protection. Don’t forget to let us know if you hap- ground pipe to deal with this kind of down toward the dam. The footing was pen to catch a trout when you’re there! massive erosion. a little shaky, but I figured it was fine, Monitoring results for lower Naas I followed the flow through the woods that it would get more solid. Nope. This Creek, below where the City of Burns- 17 MNTU Chapter News

by the recent heavy rains, but over all 26, 2017. Friday night we tie the fly and dji. Fifty-five children from two differ- Gitche Gumee are still doing very good. Our annual Saturday we fish the fly and that night ent classrooms participated in this year’s fall meetings at the Izaak Walton League we eat the fish. (see photo) We have program. On May 24th the students re- Chapter Cabin will begin September 12th 2016 conducted membership assessments and leased approximately 85 rainbow and 95 through March of 2017. Meetings are on members want fun, educational group brown trout in the Clearwater River. In- We continue to need volunteers to help the first Monday of each month except activities and this event fills the bid. terestingly, this year the rainbows grew out with the North Shore Trout Stream September being the 5th is Labor Day so We started last year with Brian Berge- significantly bigger than the browns and Temperature Refuge Project. The field that meeting will be Sept. 12th. Times son tying one of his beautiful articulated hopefully will have better survival in the survey continues through the end of and speakers TBA. October we will have musky flies. This year, as you can see in river as a result. Thank you Steve Young summer 2016, but more volunteers will our annual chili feed and fly tying night the photo, we tied a similar fly but with for all the hours in coordinating this pro- be needed to spend a half day or more at the Izaak Walton Cabin. The Board extra select craft fur using some of Bri- gram. helping to map the locations of ground- of Directors make chili and the chapter an’s techniques. Several members really water. We expect to sponsor several provides all the fixings and beverages. I got into the spirit of this event. Spec- - Thank you to all our committed, combined fishing/survey weekends to hope as many of you can join us as pos- fial thanks to John Lueth and Charlie dedicated volunteer members who made concentrate on watersheds in Lake and sible. It’s a lot of fun and you can learn Parson for brewing the Brown trout ale another 5th grade fly fishing program Cook Counties. Sites with nearby camp- some tying skills from some of our very a success. You guys are amazing; 14 ing have been selected to allow volun- experienced fly tying members. Stay years, 500 5th graders that is something teers to set aside a weekend or two for tuned to our web site www.hiawathatu. to be proud of. camping, fishing and monitoring - tem org for all of the directions and details. perature. Come up on a Friday and fish - Speaking of amazing volun- the evening, take the opportunity to ex- Yours Truly, HTU President teers, a quick and true story to recognize plore North Shore streams on Saturday our most senior volunteer. This spring looking for cool-water input, fish the Phil Pankow steelhead fishing on the Knife River I evening and Sunday morning while en- met Andrew Larson, a full time DNR joying conversations with other fisher- fisheries employee who was conducting folk. Contact Peder Yurista to sign up creel census. Andrew and I were chat- and learn more at: Headwaters ting about our mutual affection for fly fishing (can you imagine that). Andrew [email protected] Chapter was explaining with great delight about a brook trout he had caught the day be- We hope to see you this summer on the - Our fall membership meeting fore. When I said I was from Bemidji, North Shore. will be held on September 20, 5:30- his eyes and mouth sparkled out an en- 9:30pm at the new C.K. Dudley’s Bar thusiastic “that’s where I learned how and Grill (formerly Cattails). A double to fly fish, 20 years ago.” It turns out Jon Aspie feature program including veteran fish- three of our most senior board members, ing guides offering great fishing adven- Bob Frazey, Vince Carffaro, and the tures to check out right here in Minne- most senior at 90, Gale Brooks taught sota. Darwin Sumner, Red Lake Native a fly fishing class in Andrew’s middle Hiawatha Chapter and long-term fishing guide will get you school class. Andrew remembered the hooked up to big rainbow, brook and man and the name, Gale Brooks. An- Hiawatha Trout Unlimited (HTU) has lake trout on the unique, intimate ice Beer brewed especially for the drew said, “He taught me how to cast had a busy summer. We had our annual block lakes of the Red Lake Indian Res- Headwaters Chapter’s “Great Esox and they took us fishing on the Clearwa- Senior Fishing Day in June in Lanes- ervation. Brian Bergeson, author, guide, Slime Event” ter River.” I will never forget the look boro, MN. Hiawatha TU, the Depart- master tier and fly designer for Montana of enthusiasm and thankfulness on An- mnet of Natural Resources Fisheries, Fly Company will share some of his lat- and Esox IPA. John also contributed a drew’s face when he recalled the name and Chester Daniels and his family have est fly designs and fishing techniques. hat and t-shirt fundraiser. Jeff Korbel of Gale Brooks. Gale continues to be one of made this event happen for more than 25 Brian’s experience centers on trout, Korbel Rods donated tying instruction our most consistent, positive volunteers. years. In May we helped out the DNR steelhead, pike and muskies. Brian was and the fish fry site, we fed 21 people. Including helping this year with our 5th again with MinnAqua a youth/adult fly born, raised and still lives in Minnesota. Several others brought boats, including a grade fly fishing program in both tying fishing education weekend. In June Social hour: 5:30pm, dinner 5:45, and Clacka Craft drift boat, for the drift boat and casting. Gale, Vince and Bob are our T.U.N.E. Camp was held at Eagle Bluff. 7:10 Program, fly raffle and door prizes. experience, thanks to Keith Behn. Call three founding fathers, great guys and T.U.N.E. Stands for The Ultimate Na- next year by May 1 to sign up. committed volunteers. Volunteers make ture Experience. July was the Interna- - We just concluded our super a difference. tional Federation of Fly Fishers (IFFF) successful second annual Pike Hunt - Our women’s initiative fly fish- fly casting boot camp and much, much also known as “The Great Esox Slime ing weekend retreats were held June 10- Bob Wagner more. Event”. If you enjoy casting streamers 11 and 24-25. Fourteen ladies had a great with lots of action this event is for you. time learning, practicing and fishing. Some of our streams have been affected Mark your calendars for next year May Six women caught a fish on the fly rod for the first time which was an “exciting Mid-Minnesota big deal!” Their evaluations were really positive and encouraging. The majority Chapter want to come back next year, but more importantly they gained the knowledge, skill and increased confidence they were The Mid-Minnesota Chapter is excited hoping for. The almost gourmet meals to announce that funding has been se- were a hit, and happy hour social time cured for addtional work on Little Rock was great to ask questions and share sto- Creek. Look to hear more about the ries. (Which we all know is an important project and upcoming planning as the part of fishing.) We plan on doing this year progresses. next year, so give a us a call. For more information on the Mid-Min- - Two new fundraisers include an nesota Chapter and to get involved with Esox hat and a “Stay Calm and Tie Flies” the Little Rock Creek project, contact T-shirt. Call if you need one or both. chapter president Micah Barrett at (320) 241-0870. - TIC update: Our chapter has just completed its ninth successful year of the Trout in the Classroom program at Michah Barrett A young angler’s first trout on the clearwater River Northern Elementary School near Bemi- 18 MNTU Chapter News

at 6:30pm at Wood Lake Nature Center We worked with Whitewater State Park their outdoor program. Casting instruc- Twin Cities Chapter in Richfield. Learn about fishing metro staff on June 11 for the annual “Take A tions were given on June 7. The kids area trout streams. Kid Fishing” program. Our members involved in this class had a chance to Twin Cities Chapter has had a very busy volunteer to take kids, and sometimes try their skills the following Tuesday, spring! We are happy to announce that our first parents, for an exposure to fishing June 14, on Lake Winona. Our board and many members attended Fall Fundraising Social is Friday, Octo- within the state park’s boundary. Also and helped staff the Great Waters Fly ber 14, at the Eagan Community Cen- in June, we helped the Lewiston Sports- Joe Lepley Fishing Expo which was hosted this year ter. We have enthusiastic volunteers on men’s Club with the fishing aspect of by our MNTU state council. We were our events committee, and welcome able to talk with many attendees about you to join us in making this a great TU’s great work in Minnesota and near- event. Watch for more information in ly 100 new members joined our ranks! your email. If you aren’t already receiv- ing regular emails about our upcoming Our first workday of the year was held events, like stream work days and fly on April 2nd at Hay Creek. 25 volunteers fishing clinics, subscribe by sending an removed three beaver dams and a dozen email to [email protected]. large trees, many of which were in the creek. It was another job well done by There are many ways for you to get in- our dedicated TCTU volunteers. Watch volved! We always need volunteers for our website and your email for upcom- habitat work days on Hay Creek, the ing opportunities on Hay Creek, the Ver- Vermillion River, and elsewhere. Not million, and other projects. your thing? How about connecting with veterans through Project Healing Wa- It’s been great to see the success that ters? Helping us organize events like at- TU’s acclaimed “Trout in the Class- tending state or county fairs to promote room” has had in its first year at ten TU? Helping with the website, social Minnesota schools. Starting in the fall, media and other communications, or kids raise trout from eggs, and study the monitoring local watershed meetings, importance of healthy streams to fish, development proposals, or environmen- invertebrates, and the rest of our ecosys- tal reviews? We would love to have your tem. About 450 of these students met on help! We can be reached here: info@ April 15th at Metro State University to twincitiestu.org or check out our web learn more from a dozen natural resource site at: www.twincitiestu.org professionals, share each other’s work, and try their hand at casting and fly ty- Dean Campbell ing. Students finish the school year by releasing the trout fingerlings they raised into local trout streams. It’s another way that TU connects with our communities, and especially with the youth who will Win-Cres Chapter be the future stewards of our planet. In early April, Win-Cres members cleaned up the highway stretch assigned On April 25th, our chapter hosted about to the chapter. Members collected sev- 100 people at Surly Brewing Co. for eral bags of trash along Lake Boulevard our first-ever film event, a screening of overlooking East Lake Winona. In May, the 2016 International Fly Fishing Film two Win-Cres members, Jim Clark and Festival. The evening began with a so- Joe Lepley, helped Mark Reisetter with cial hour of fishy conversation among his fly fishing class at Whitewater State old and new friends with light appetiz- Park. We had a work day on Garvin ers and Surly’s great beer selection. The Brook on May 7 to clear debris from the two-hour film consisted of eight seg- stream corridor and scout for Japanese ments with a variety of themes, from knotweed. Eleven members showed up destination fishing in locations like New to work. Brats and refreshments were Zealand and the Arctic, to closer-to- enjoyed after the work. Results of our home sequences such as fly-fishing for herbicide spraying last fall are look- muskellunge in Canada and for tuna near ing very positive. We will need to go San Diego, to more thoughtful segments back and spray again because the weed like the legacy of fishing passed from fa- is persistent. We worked with Jaime ther to son to grandson shot on the Big- Edwards of the DNR in June to spray

Paddlers explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Read about the BWCAW on page 8 and learn about some of the issues that threaten our northern wilderness. Brian Okeffe Photo.

A hefty brown trout in the net from SE MN this spring horn River in Montana. Overall it was a new and old spots where the knotweed great evening, and one that we plan to is showing up. Jaime says we will be March 17th-19th, 2017 repeat in the future. able to use Vanquish once the plants have enough leaf structure to absorb the www.greatwatersflyexpo.com We’ll hold our first free public event herbicide. of the fall on Tuesday, September 27 19 Want to Get This Newsletter? There are now TWO ways!

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We’ll assign you to a local MN chapter. Chapters meet regularly to hear about The Smallest Streams fishing hot spots, discuss conservation issues, plan work days on their home By Sam Troutt waters, organize fundraisers, and of course, swap a few fish tales and learn hen I began fishing for trout, how to tie the latest fly patterns. ard to the native cutthroat. As I scuffled it was almost by accident. I along those gritty streams of my youth, was a kid with an insatiable All members also receive this publication as well as TROUT, TU’s national mag- W I grew protective of them. Buffeted by azine. Other benefits include a 16-month TU calendar, car rental & hotel dis- appetite for fishing, and I stumbled on rain, filled with sediment and choked counts and more. TU offers a variety of membership categories. to an old trout fishing volume in a dusty with non-native species, it amazes me corner of the library that mentioned that the trout hung on. Today as we face trout fishing in some of the glory years more and more challenges with our sub- Visit www.tu.org today to sign up. just after WWII. While I consumed the urban streams, it is imperative that we book with gusto and prepared to execute both restore them and continue to fish almost every technique available, I was them. Small metro trout streams like the short on locations to fish. With the lim- Vermillion River in Farmington, Browns Or Subscribe! ited distances available to youth, along Creek in Stillwater and Valley Creek in with never having caught a trout, I began Afton may not have the name recogni- For those of you who are members in other chapters in other states, or who to scour maps and books to find the clos- would like to directly support MNTU’s newsletter, we are now welcoming sub- tion of the Madison River in Montana, scribers to the newsletter. Sign up to get three colorful issues annually. Mail in est trout to my parent’s home. The “big but they offer something important: this form today to receive the next issue arriving this summer in June! name” waters of midwest fishing were The chance to raise another generation far away, and though I longed to reach of anglers who might just care enough Name______the Kinnickinnic, Whitewater or Root about their local waters to get involved. River valleys, they were simply not at- So take some time this summer to fish a Address______tainable. I was left with the small, mar- third-rate trout stream. Even if it’s just ginal waters. These small streams left a City______State______Zip______for an hour. Get on the MN DNR web deep imprint on my existence as a trout site and find the trout stream closest to angler. Success on small streams was Email Address______you and hit the water. Summertime is not measured in sheer numbers of fish, for adventure! The streams may not be Circle one below: but often simply if you managed to catch large, but the adventure just might be. a trout at all. Finding brook trout in a wa- If you find something amazing, get in One Year Subscription: $20 tershed where they had been all but lost touch with MNTU. Protecting, restor- to agriculture, logging, beaver dams or ing and conserving small things that are Three Year Subscription: $55 development was the fishing challenge amazing is what we’re all about. I grew up with. Little did I know that Only Checks Are Accepted. there would be locations with streams Editor’s Note: Read more about some brimming full of brook trout, and even Mail Completed Forms To: of our small metro streams in the “Lost in some waters in the Rocky Mountains Minnesota Trout Unlimited Trout Streams of Burnsville” series, con- far away, locations where there are so P.O. Box 845, Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 cluding in this issue. many brook trout that they pose a haz- Donate to Minnesota Trout Unlimited Efforts Minnesota TU is the leading voice, your voice, advocating for coldwater fisheries and watersheds in Minnesota and the region. Our effective advocacy work and successful habitat grant writing efforts cannot continue without your direct financial support of Minnesota TU. We receive none of the donations raised from TU’s direct mail and other fundraising efforts, and the small portion of your membership dues we receive is less than the cost to print and mail this newsletter. We need direct support from you - members and non-members alike - to keep us working effectively for you, your family and your friends. Every dollar of that donation will be used here in Minnesota.

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