official update for the Pout fest

Go to ://www.eelpoutfestival.com/ for an update on driving on Leech for the Pout Fest

Interesting…I read the press release and it states that vehicles with the exception of ATV’s and Snowmobiles are allowed on the ice from 8 a.m Friday to 3 p.m Sunday.

Does this mean that you cannot leave your ice shack on the ice during this time period either?

If you read the press release they stated.

From the Cass County Sheriff’s Office: Due to poor ice conditions, vehicle traffic on the Walker Bay area of Leech Lake will be restricted to Class 1 and 2 ATVs and snowmobiles from Friday, February 18th at 8 AM until Sunday, February 20th at 3 PM. This is to ensure the safety of the participants of the International Eelpout Festival. This closure is pursuant to MS 86B.

Ice conditions have been especially unstable this year. Remember that it’s extremely important to be aware of the varying ice conditions that exist when you are on area lakes.

We appreciate the public’s cooperation and understanding in this matter. If you should have any questions or concerns, please contact the Cass County Sheriff’s Office.

What does this mean: You may navigate the ice in Walker Bay up until 8:00 a.m. Friday Feb 18 with the vehicle of your choosing. After 8:00 a.m. your car, truck or auto must be off the ice. You may use a snowmobile or class I or II ATV after 8:00 a.m. on Friday. You will be permitted unload on the ice and turn around to immediately exit at the access in Walker City Park and the access by Cochran’s Marina throughout the weekend. As in years past there should be many individuals willing to help transport your camp gear for a small donation. Be advised the ice thickness varies from 15″-18″ throughout Walker Bay with pockets of slush and water scattered throughout the area. Compounding the problem is 1-2 feet of snow weight on the ice making road creation difficult if not impossible in some areas. Ice travel will be challenging, but the 2011 International Eelpout Festival is all-systems-go.

We recommend: if you plan to set-up an encampment choose a location near the Cochran’s access or set-up close the Walker City Park for easiest access to you encampment. Fishhouse parking will be allowed along the railroad grade road near the park and at several other parking lots throughout town. As in 2004 those pouters hardy enough to scoff at adversity will choose to attend and will carry on the pouting tradition. All scheduled events on the events page are still on. Diggy reports the ice track at Garfield Lake is in prime condition and ready for the running of the 8th annual Eelpout 500.

A Note on Littering — Some concern has been raised about open fires on the ice. Fires are allowed if in a burning container and all residue is removed finished. You must burn clean wood, no pallets with nails allowed on the ice. PLEASE use the many litter receptacles located in the area or take your trash with you. Don’t let a few ice pigs ruin the event for everyone. While we contract to have the ice cleaned after the event, we need your cooperation in dealing with those individuals that don’t care about the condition of the lake. Littering citations will again be issued in 2011 by the area law enforcement with fines starting at $300.

Portable Restrooms: We have secured a special rental rate from Port-Able John Rental Service in Bemidji. They are the Official Potties of the International Eelpout Festival. You can pre-order a portable restroom for $60 for the weekend. Additional pumping and cleaning $25 per visit. Their number is 1-800-924-9453. Please take advantage of this offer.

Walker, MN weather current conditions

Bob Auel

Leech Lake Guide

218-836-2014

Pro-Staff Strikemaster Augers

Vexilar, St. Croix Rods, Northland Tackle

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