Spring is in the air and most of my friends have escaped our record-setting Minnesota winter for warmer climates. Our family tradition has been to go north for spring and when we head north, our favorite destination is Walker, MN and Chase on the Lake.

Walker is a quick 3.5 hour drive and Chase on the Lake is a gem on the south shore of Leech Lake. Within 10 minutes of our arrival the kids were in the pool and my wife Kristin and I made happy hour in the 502 Bar to plan our weekend. Kristin prefers to explore Walker and its shops while my boys and I explore the lake.

Hard core Minnesotans know spring is a relative term. At Leech Lake spring means you can swap out your 20" auger extension for a 12" extension!

Aaron Petrie Holds on the our Strikemaster Auger
Ice conditions on Leech are very good. 36" to 42" inches on most areas means your extension is a must. We fished today in 6'-8' of water on Sand Point. My boy Aaron was first on the board with a short but sweet perch.

Aaron is the leader in the clubhouse with first, biggest and most fish of the day!

We sorted through a lot of small ones and fought off a couple northern to land a couple keeper perch this morning. But with 40 degrees and sun, it was ideal spring fishing conditions.

Theo Petrie holds two Leech Lake Jumbo Perch

We're back to the Chase for lunch and a nap, then back to Sand Point for the evening bite. Evening will consist of an epic bowling match at Chase followed by some NCAA basketball. Who needs beaches and heat when the accommodations are luxurious and the fishing is hot! Not bad for a last minute weekend getaway!

Happy fishing!