"I really enjoy fishing the lakes in and around Minneapolis and canoe these local lakes with friends who also like to catch and release largemouth bass. Tube jigs and wacky worms have been particularly effective, and we've safely released hundreds of nice ones already this season. This 21-inch bass took a tube jig, and made a few spectacular jumps before coming to hand. It's hard to beat the peacefulness of paddling and fishing on a calm lake in the early morning, interrupted only by some exciting fishing action. We are certainly fortunate to have so many wonderful lakes all around the Twin Cities area."

WHAT A DAY

Jackson Utermarck, 10, of Fairmont, Minn., had quite a day recently on vacation with his family on Lake Vermilion. Jackson caught a 45-inch muskie (a personal best), then a 38-inch northern (another personal best) then this 38-inch northern — all in the same day.
METRO NORTHERN

Nancy Roettger of Minneapolis caught this dandy northern on Lake Calhoun. "For over two hours prior to her catch, she'd been reluctantly serving as the picture taker," said her husband, Dan. "Finally I saw her rod bend and her jaw become firmly set, like it does whenever she has an 'important' fish on." And photographer became subject.
Trophy Tales: To be considered for our fishing page, e-mail your photo and story to fishphoto@startribune.com. Identify anglers and where they live, and include details about the fish and where and how it was caught.