Leech Lake Blog

In Minnesota, the groundhog gets so scared he stays inside for a few weeks longer. But, no matter how long it is before warm weather truly arrives up north, you don’t have to hide in your den. You can get out and enjoy the outdoors at Trapper’s Landing.

The period between March 1 and May 13th is a transitional period at Trapper’s Landing. The main fishing season is on pause and winter is fading away at various rates in various years. Still, there are many options.

It turns out the fishing option never really goes away if you realize there are other fish in the lakes. Some fish like eelpout and pan fish never go out of season.

The period when you can’t fish on Leech Lake is small—Trapper’s manager and guide Josh Bullivant says about two weeks. When you take in account the many other nearby lakes that may thaw faster, the non-fishing window practically disappears. Josh points out that many of these smaller lakes are good for pan fishing. When you are at the lodge, ask Josh for some advice on how to get some fishing in, whenever you happen to be there.

During this period the outdoor activities are in transition. If you come early enough in the season, there may still be some trails that are still skiable. Also, you can walk the trails or bike them with your own or one of the resort’s complimentary bikes.

If the trails are too muddy you can walk or bike on the roads. From these roads you can still get great views of nature, which is also in a state of transition.

This is the time to watch nature come alive. The lake may still be frozen or the ice might be cracking up and big chunks are being splashed up and down. You can watch swollen streams bursting from the release of locked up water. You may see birds returning and watch the ground becoming green.

Whatever you do this time of year, you are sure to have less competition as most tourist traffic is centered around summer or winter.

Trapper’s Landing also has options to enjoy this slower time of the year that fit your budget. There are the luxury townhomes, complete with Jacuzzis, kitchens, and other amenities. Then, there are the Merit Cabins. They offer a simpler but still nice way to enjoy the area. You can stay at the cabins and still save up to come back in the summer.

Wherever you stay, the resort has many year-round amenities that are available to all guests. The lakeside sauna is nice year-round but especially when it is cold. The bonfires are a lot of fun during this period. Depending on the weather, you can use the complimentary canoes and kayaks or play a few yard games.

This spring be braver than the groundhog and dare to escape cabin fever.

All photos are from Odyssey Resorts