More Than a Season Opener—A Celebration of Small Towns and Big Traditions.
The first weekend in May is sacred for many Wisconsin anglers—and for me, it’s become something I look forward to every single year. The opener is more than just the green light to fish and harvest on inland waters again; it’s a celebration of our state’s rich outdoor heritage, small-town hospitality, and a tradition that runs deep in our hearts.
This year, that celebration brought me to Barron County, nestled in the northwest pocket of Wisconsin where winding rivers, clear lakes, and charming communities paint a picture of everything I love about this state. I’ve been fortunate enough to attend the Wisconsin Governor’s Fishing Opener for the past three years, and each time has offered something new—but this year, one message stuck with me more than anything: “Better Together.” Keynote Speaker Captain Barb Carey shared those words during the Friday night banquet, and I couldn’t agree more. Whether you’re casting lines, connecting communities, or lifting up local businesses, this tradition proves that Wisconsin shines brightest when we do it together.
Arriving in the Rain, Dreaming of Sun
The weekend always kicks off with a showcase tour—giving us a behind-the-scenes look at some of the standout destinations and businesses in the host county. It’s one of my favorite parts of the opener. You’re not just passing through a place to fish, but rather getting to know the heart of the community.
We pulled into the boat launch at Stout’s Island Lodge just before noon on a misty Friday. The skies were gray, the water choppy, and the air smelled like damp pine. I didn’t mind the dreary weather—it actually felt kind of perfect. From the moment we stepped onto the boat for the short ride over, I could feel the weekend’s energy starting to build. Despite the drizzle, I paused to film my intro story for Instagram, knowing I was about to document something special: a weekend filled with fishing, connection, and storytelling.
The island has this quiet kind of magic that makes you forget everything on the mainland. It’s remote in the best way—no TVs in the rooms (only one on the island, tucked in the game room), cozy fires flickering in sitting areas, and a peacefulness that makes even non-readers want to curl up with a book.
Built in the early 1900s by Frank D. Stout—heir to one of Wisconsin’s wealthiest lumber families—Stout’s Island was originally a private summer escape. Nicknamed the “Island of Happy Days“, it was inspired by the rustic luxury of the Adirondack Great Camps. Today, that same charm lives on, inviting guests to slow down, breathe deep, and soak in the serenity of Northwoods life.
A Peek Behind the Scenes at Henry Repeating Arms
Next on our tour was Henry Repeating Arms in Rice Lake, a stop that truly surprised and impressed me. While our tour was brief due to time constraints, it left a lasting impression. One section of their facility alone is responsible for producing over 800 firearms per day, which is absolutely mind-blowing. But beyond the numbers, it was the pride, precision, and purpose behind every step of their process that really stood out.
Henry Repeating Arms is a family-owned business known for crafting classic, American-made rifles and shotguns with a commitment to quality and tradition. Originally headquartered in New Jersey, the company has made a powerful investment in the state of Wisconsin by relocating all of its manufacturing operations to Rice Lake and finalized the transition just a few months ago. This move not only brought hundreds of jobs to the region, but also reaffirmed Henry’s belief in American craftsmanship and Midwest values.
Their slogan—“Made in America, or not made at all” is more than just a tagline. It’s a promise you can feel throughout the factory floor. Every detail, from hand-checkered stocks to polished brass receivers, speaks to their dedication to excellence and heritage. Touring their operation was a reminder of the incredible industries we have right here in the Northwoods—and how much pride goes into every product made in Wisconsin. You could see and feel the literal pride in each worker we passed by in the factory.
A Walk Down Memory Lane at Pioneer Village
We wrapped up our showcase tour with a visit to the Pioneer Village Museum in Cameron—a place I hadn’t seen since a grade school field trip. I still remember learning how to make rope using an old loom. Walking through it again as an adult gave me a whole new appreciation for the dedication it takes to preserve these stories. There’s something truly grounding about seeing where we came from; it reminds me of how far we’ve come while holding onto the values that got us here.
Operated by the Barron County Historical Society since its founding in 1960, the museum spans 40 acres and features over 40 historic buildings and structures dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore a blacksmith shop, town hall, doctor’s office, post office, and more, each meticulously preserved to showcase the region’s rich heritage. The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including Native American Heritage Days, a Strawberry Festival, and a Classic Car Show, offering immersive experiences that celebrate the area’s diverse history.
The museum is entirely volunteer-run, with dedicated individuals contributing their time and talents to operate and maintain the museum. Many volunteers dress in period costumes, sharing their knowledge of the displays and demonstrating a variety of pioneer skills and crafts, bringing history to life for visitors. Their efforts ensure that local history and culture continue to be honored and preserved. If you’re passionate about history and community, the museum is always looking for more volunteers to join their mission. Whether it’s guiding tours, assisting with events, or helping with maintenance, there’s a place for everyone to contribute. To get involved, visit their website or call 715-458-2080.
Better Together: The Friday Night Banquet
Later that evening, we gathered at the Elks Lodge in Rice Lake for the VIP dinner—and the energy was something you could feel the second you walked in. Every seat was filled, the chatter was loud with excitement, and the buzz in the room was unlike any of the previous openers I’ve attended. In my three years attending the Governor’s Fishing Opener, this was hands-down the most packed and lively dinner I’ve experienced.
Governor Evers and Lieutenant Governor Sarah Rodriguez were both in attendance, along with representatives from the DNR, outdoor journalists, local tourism teams, small business owners, and fellow storytellers like Krysten Potega and Kyle Tyree. It was one of those rare moments where so many different parts of the outdoor community—government, media, business, and recreation—came together under one roof, all bound by a shared love for Wisconsin’s wild places.
Barb Carey, founder of Wisconsin Women Fish and fierce advocate for women in the outdoors, delivered an unforgettable speech. Her theme, “Better Together,” wasn’t just a catchphrase—it was a powerful reminder of what makes events like this, and fishing in general, so impactful. She spoke about how fishing has the power to transform lives. It’s not just about catching fish, she said—it’s about building confidence, healing from hard things, and connecting with others in a way that few other experiences can offer. I found myself nodding throughout her speech, thinking about how true that has been in my own life, too.
The DNR followed with encouraging updates—fishing license sales are on the rise, hatchery programs are thriving, and the state continues to recognize outdoor recreation as one of its most vital economic drivers. It was a proud moment to be a Wisconsinite—to see the momentum growing around something that means so much to so many.
Each year, the event also features silent auctions from every participating county in the Northwest Wisconsin region. Jay and I were lucky enough to win the Barron County basket this year—which was packed with goodies from local businesses, plus a side-by-side rental that we can’t wait to put to good use this summer. It was such a fun surprise and a reminder of how much heart these communities pour into making the event special.
For me, this evening wasn’t just a dinner—it was a celebration of everything this tradition stands for: unity, storytelling, stewardship, and a shared belief in the power of the outdoors. It reminded me why I keep coming back every year—and why I’ll keep showing up for the people, places, and waters that have shaped my story.
Switching Lakes, Chasing Bites
Saturday morning brought blue skies and a fresh start. While our original plan was to fish Rice Lake, Jay and I decided to venture to Red Cedar Lake instead. The water clarity was promising, and with fewer reports circulating online, it felt like a worthwhile gamble.
And, well, it was a gamble. The fish didn’t cooperate—Jay managed to land three jumbo perch, while I came up empty-handed. But the lake itself? Absolutely stunning. With water temperatures hovering around 48 degrees, it served as a gentle reminder that spring in Wisconsin can be unpredictable. Still, we navigated around scenic islands, basked in the sunshine, and appreciated the tranquility the lake offered.
What made this experience even more special was knowing that Red Cedar Lake holds a significant place in Wisconsin’s fishing history. In 1968, it hosted the very first Wisconsin Governor’s Fishing Opener, marking the beginning of a cherished tradition that continues to this day.
Spanning approximately 1,897 acres with a maximum depth of 53 feet, Red Cedar Lake is part of the Red Cedar Chain of Lakes, which also includes Balsam and Hemlock Lakes. The lake is renowned for its diverse fishery, offering opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and perch.
For anglers looking to explore the lake’s intricate structure, modern tools like onX Fish provide detailed contour maps, highlighting depth changes, underwater features, and potential fishing hotspots. These resources are invaluable for planning and enhancing your fishing experience on Red Cedar Lake.
Even without a successful catch, the day on Red Cedar Lake was a memorable one, filled with natural beauty, historical significance, and the ever-present hope that the next cast could bring a big one.
The Heart of the Weekend: Veterans Memorial Park
After fishing, we made our way to Veterans Memorial Park in Rice Lake for the community celebration—and this is where the weekend truly comes alive. The shoreline buzzed with families, kids, and curious newcomers casting lines into the water, many for the very first time. Booths from organizations like Take Me Fishing, Travel Northwest Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources offered interactive, educational experiences. TNF handed out emergency tackle kits for kids who completed a fish scavenger hunt, while another (Clean Boats, Clean Waters) showed invasive species demos and prevention tools. The DNR even had a fyke net on display filled with live fish—giving kids a rare, up-close look at the species swimming beneath the surface.
And while the kids were casting lines, we were casting eyes toward the smell of BBQ drifting through the park. That’s where we found Shig and Shank BBQ—and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. We ordered the BBQ nachos loaded with warm queso, and they were an absolute knockout. I went with chicken, Jay got the brisket, and we both couldn’t stop talking about how good it was. Perfectly smoked, savory, and just the right amount of messy—it hit the spot after a long morning on the water.
This whole event was a beautiful example of what happens when community, conservation, and connection come together. Moments like these matter—especially for the next generation. Fishing teaches patience, respect for nature, and offers a kind of mental clarity that’s hard to find in today’s fast-paced world. I grew up fishing with my family, and I know firsthand how those memories stick with you. It’s more than just learning to fish—it’s learning to love the outdoors. And events like this help keep that legacy alive.
We wrapped up our Saturday visiting downtown Rice Lake and ending with a classic Northwoods experience at Lehman’s Supper Club in Rice Lake—and it was everything you’d hope for. From the cozy wood-paneled charm to the fresh fruit, crackers, and veggie tray that kicks off your meal, it’s supper club tradition done right. I ordered the ahi tuna special (perfection), and Jay went with the New York strip. The French onion soup alone is worth the visit. Warm, welcoming, and full of Wisconsin flavor, Lehman’s was the perfect way to end a memorable day.
A Note on Community and Connection
Tucked along the east shore of Rice Lake on a quiet five-acre peninsula, Currier’s Lakeview Lodge is peaceful, charming, and full of heart. Every room looks out over the lake, offering views that start your morning with still water and birdsong. It’s the kind of place that blends rustic Northwoods charm with thoughtful, welcoming details—cozy themed rooms, a communal lounge with coffee and pastries, and that comforting sense that you’re right where you’re meant to be.
But it’s not just about the views. The lodge has incredible access to the outdoors that makes it a haven for both anglers and families. With free paddle sports available—including kayaks and paddle boards—it’s easy to get out and explore the water without having to haul extra gear. The docks are fully accessible for boaters and fishermen alike, and the fishing right from the piers is better than we ever expected. We caught smallmouth bass, largemouth, and even pike without leaving shore.
For those bringing a boat, the lodge is outfitted with everything you need: charging stations right at your parking spot, a fully stocked fish cleaning house with knives, paper towels, and everything prepped for your post-fishing routine. There are grills available for lakeside dinners, and picnic tables for gathering outdoors. It’s pet-friendly, family-friendly, and somehow still manages to feel tucked away and private, even though it’s right in town.
Oh—and it’s the only lodge on Rice Lake. That exclusivity adds to the charm, making it feel like your own little slice of the Northwoods. Prime sunset viewing, too!
The owners are some of the kindest and most genuine we’ve met on our travels. They were so grateful to have us highlight their lodge, and their warmth reminded me exactly why I do this—why storytelling matters. It’s not just about showing a destination. It’s about helping small-town businesses thrive, sharing hidden gems with the world, and making sure places like this get the spotlight they so deeply deserve.
Final Thoughts
With over 15,000 lakes, winding rivers, and more shoreline than the entire East Coast, Wisconsin is a fishing state to its core. But if there’s one thing the Governor’s Fishing Opener reminds me of year after year, it’s that this weekend isn’t just about rods, reels, and what we catch—it’s about who we share the water with.
The opener marks more than the start of fishing season. It’s a homecoming. A handshake between tradition and tourism. A bridge between generations. It brings together local business owners, conservationists, storytellers, community leaders, and everyday anglers—all of us bound by a love for the outdoors and the memories we make because of it.
What I’ve come to learn is that adventure doesn’t always mean heading somewhere new or wild or far away. Sometimes, it means just turning down a road you’ve never taken before. Pulling into a bait shop you’ve driven past a hundred times. Casting a line into a lake you only knew by name. Staying at a lodge that quickly starts to feel like home.
When we stretch ourselves just a little—when we take the extra five miles, shake hands with a stranger, support a small business, or say yes to a weekend out of our comfort zone—we don’t just discover new places. We discover new parts of ourselves.
This year, I left Barron County with a full heart. Not because we crushed it on the water (because we didn’t LOL), but because of the people I met, the stories I got to hear, and the gratitude I felt from folks about highlighting their businesses; their passions and dreams. That’s what makes this whole journey worth it. Not the vanity metrics of the likes and the views—but the real impact. The real connection. The chance to shine a light on places and people who deserve to be seen.
So whether you’re casting for walleyes, chasing panfish with your kids, or just soaking up the sunshine from the dock, I hope this season brings you closer to the places and people that matter most.
And if you take anything from this year’s opener, let it be this. There’s always something worth discovering—just beyond the bend, at the next launch, in the heart of a small town.
Thank you, Barron County, for the memories. I’ll be back soon. But until then, I’ll be chasing fish, sharing stories, and holding tight to everything this weekend gave me.
