The Minnesotan accent is well-known and easily mocked. Yah, sure we use phrases like “you betcha” and could easily trademark “ope, sorry,” but no place is more proud of the unique blend of German and Scandinavian heritage that contributed to the long vowels used so frequently in this northern dialect. The accent isn’t the only thing we held onto, though. Traditions keep us going through the long, slow end to winter. As we usher in spring, we’re one of the last places up north to see the ice disappear on the lake and the snow mounds melt for good. By gathering to celebrate spring holidays, we take time to reflect on a few traditions and soak up the last days of winter and the first days of spring.

Starting with a night-time hike on Friday, March 6, grab your snowshoes and hit the Oberholtzer Trail to explore the woods and wildlife that come out at night with the “Night Eyes Snowshoe Hike” from 7 to 8:30 PM. It’s a method of travel used for centuries and it’s a heck of a lot quieter than the engine of a snowmobile or the roar of an ATV. Get ready for some serious quiet time to connect with nature in a whole new way. This is a self-guided hike, so you’ll be free to go at your own pace and stop to see the owl or fox that share the trail. Start at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center and let your curiosity guide you deeper and deeper into the dim-lit woods that are humming with nocturnal creatures.

In mid-March, celebrate the Finnish or Irish Saint (or both) that are traditionally synonymous with the start of spring. St. Urho’s Day is quirky and just what we need to break our late-winter cabin fever. This holiday that takes place on March 16 celebrates a make-believe saint who is said to have driven away the grasshoppers from Finland in order to save their grape crop. Originating in Virginia, MN, Northern Minnesotans take this holiday pretty seriously and welcome anyone to celebrate this bizarre and fun holiday.

St. Patrick’s Day, on March 17, celebrates a saint who is said to have chased unwelcome snakes out of Ireland. This impressive feat was given an entire holiday celebrating Irish culture and history. Pack something green or risk being pinched, or so says tradition.

All of this foreshadows the first official day of spring in the northern hemisphere, March 19. It might not feel like spring up here, but this sweet spot between winter and spring means wildlife galore. Between the heavy walleye activity on Rainy River and wildlife that is just starting to come out of hibernation, there’s plenty to see and do. Whether you choose to celebrate a saint or discover one of the most beautiful landscapes in Minnesota by ​snowshoe, there’s an activity for you up here. It’s all waiting to be explored, don’t cha know?

Come March, who isn’t itching to get out on the water, soak up the sun, and float the day away while waiting for the big one? This month, we celebrate the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere but it might not feel or look like it. Ice still covers the lakes, the threat of late winter snow storms looms over us, and the temps aren’t quite warm enough to bury your winter coat in the back of your closet yet. But just as winter starts to retreat, migrating season begins for walleye making their way to spawning grounds and that means it’s prime season for many anglers looking to catch the big one.
​
Anglers migrate to the north every spring for one big reason: catch-and-release season. Fishers with cabin fever can delight knowing that they don’t have to wait for the May fishing opener in Minnesota to get out on the water and start casting. This catch-and-release season is in effect from March 1 to April 14 on Rainy River. With anglers migrating from all over the region for the extended season, here’s what you need to know:

1. License: Just like the regular season, anyone 16 and older will need a fishing license before they cast. You can buy online here or search for a license agent near you.
2. The Right Gear: Start off with safety. Pack enough life jackets for everyone on the boat and make sure you’re cleaning in and cleaning out. To help avoid the spread of aquatic invasive species, follow these tips from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). For equipment, fishing trips don’t have to break the bank. Know what you’re angling for and what lures or jigs they like best. In this case, anglers are casting in hopes of catching a mighty walleye that they can snap a photo of before releasing. New to walleye fishing? Don’t worry; we’ve created a list of a few essentials that we recommend for fishing on Rainy Lake here to get you started. The Minnesota DNR also shares a few tips here.
3. The Right Location: Rainy River has a few water access options to get you closer to that perfect spot. Whether you choose a rocky spot or a shallow bottom, plan to spend a few hours looking for the sweet spot that keeps them biting. Explore Minnesota suggests learning the seasonal patterns of walleye, which will help you place the big one with a little more accuracy.
4. The Right Clothes: This is likely a tip you already know, but dress in layers. March tends to be a cooler month but there are exceptions to this. Come with waterproof winter gear and easy to remove layers that will help insulate you in case of colder temps.
5. The Right Knowledge: Beyond knowing the basics of jigging, you’ll need to know what you can and can’t keep. Again, this is a catch-and-release opener and the regulations in place for this season safeguard the walleye species and ensure that the females make it to their destination to spawn. Any walleye will need to be immediately released after you snap your picture of the big guy. Here’s more info on these regulations and how to make sure you’re following the rules.

Now that you’re ready to go, make sure you have a place to stay. From hotels to resorts and cabins to B&Bs, we’re here to help you find a place to rest your head after a long day of fishing. Let the season begin!

Ever heard the old adage “Leave a place better than you found it?” Year round, Rainy Lake welcomes visitors in masses. Winter months bring visitors that pride themselves in hardiness and bravery against the cold. Spring brings fishing opener enthusiasts in troves. Summer months bring families looking to rent houseboats and forge memories not soon forgotten. Fall brings hunters and foliage fans ready to admire the beauty of the changing seasons. There are visitors that know the hard work it takes to keep this place pristine and magical all 365 days of the year. As visitors continue to make Rainy Lake a return destination, the bonds that form become harder to break and full-time residents grow fond of the familiar faces that become forever friends.
​
The natural landscape and wildlife of this region make this place a sight to behold, but it’s the residents that give their time and devotion to a remote corner of the region to ensure that this place never loses its wonder. For visitors that want to make a difference wherever they go, there’s an upcoming event that allows participants to leave a lasting impact on Rainy Lake while enjoying an activity you already love.

Need some practice before your sign up? There is a plethora of well-groomed trails to discover. Visitors have been traveling to Rainy Lake for years to ride the trails and sightsee the beauty of the north under a thick blanket of white snow. Voyageur Trail Society keeps up-to-date trail conditions on their site here throughout the winter months.
​
​If you’d like to find some straight shots or wide open space, check the trail map. We’ve prepared a checklist to review before you get on your sled to ensure you stay safe and are prepared for the conditions.