National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum
Anyone who considers themselves a true fisherman must visit Hayward, Wisconsin; home of the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum. It’s a true experience. Stuck between everything from lures to antique motors, there are many, many fish mounts of world record fish. Some so large, you must see them to believe the enormous sizes.
Personally, the best part of the visit was hearing my dad tell the stories of his father and how my grandparents once owned the Marine Mart in Lac du Flambeau. Back when my dad was a kid, they were selling everything boat & fish related. In turn, his stories of the old motors, lures and other fishing stuff were extremely interesting. And remarkably, he once knew some of the celebrated fishermen in the pictures throughout the museum.
I recommend anyone (angler or not) passing through Northwest Wisconsin to stop by the place. You’ll love it!
Lunch at Otto's Beer & Brat Garden
This place downtown Minocqua, WI is filled with atmosphere. But you really wouldn't guess it from the sidewalk. You have to venture through the door to find an extremely nice bar and front dining room. Continue roaming through the dimly lit back hallway and you'll find a beautiful, open-air restaurant.
Reminiscent of a German beer hall, they have created a gorgeous place to enjoy great food (veggie burger, in my case). And if you happen to catch them during their lunchtime period, they usually have live polka music performed by the local legend, Skip Wagner & band.
If you're up in the Northwoods, check 'em out. You won't regret it.
The Bear River: Lac du Flambeau's Scenic Gem
I love this river. It flows from the Lac du Flambeau chain of lakes, winding along the beautiful woods of Northern Wisconsin. There are a few bridges along the river. Most of which, are fun to fish from.
Today, my Dad, Brother and I took a quick Sunday road trip to this bridge along the Bear River. Taking in the view, I couldn't help but snap some pics with my blackberry:
The Thirsty Whale in Minocqua, Wisconsin
A restaurant and bar built over Lake Minocqua. With pretty remarkable atmosphere and beautiful scenery during the summer.
I highly recommend the Perch Sandwich. And better choice yet, the Spotted Cow on tap. It's pretty popular, so it's always super fresh.
Crystal Lake Beach
I'm not sure if this lake is man-made. Extremely modified. Or if this is somehow a natural miracle. In any case, this lake is amazing. The entire thing is a beach and the water is crystal clear. Most importantly, the place is unknown. So on the busiest weekend in the Northwoods, it was relatively deserted.
To bring you these shots from my iPhone, I braved the rogue waves and random splashes from kids. I hope you get a chance to visit this place.
Albino Squirrel Spotted in My Parent's Backyard
Almost 4th of July Extravaganza
Amazing food, a kid's swimming pool filled with ice & beer, lawn games, a 12-person raft and a ton of dangerous fireworks. Who could ask for more?
And luckily, the impending storm never arrived.
Shish Kabobs in Slinger, WI
Carrie & Ryan had me over on Friday. After a Piggly Wiggly run, we grilled some glorious shish kabobs (shrimp & veggie for me).
The lady in the meat department gave me the low down on grilling shrimp. By leaving them in the shell after marinating for a while, they seemed to steam themselves. And believe me, they were extremely tasty. Everyone enjoyed them.
Father's Day Golfing & Brunch in St. Germain
Min-Aqua Bats Waterski Show
Minocqua, Wisconsin is a popular tourist destination. And the town has semi-interesting attractions. One such performance is the Min-Aqua Bats Waterski Show. Remarkably, they are in their 60th year.
My friend Ashley came to visit. Of course she wanted to do the tourist thing. So we decided to check them out. (I've seen this show countless times before, as a few of my friends in high school were performers)
Here are a few shots from my Blackberry:
