The objective of the Minnesota Angler “Meet-Up” is to create a welcoming environment for passionate anglers to get together and foster fellowship, camaraderie, and learn from each other while engaging in a fun “bragging rights” fishing tournament. It is modeled after the Minnesota Valley In-Fisherman tournament which has been happening on Lake Vermilion for more than 25 years. It could help you learn in a few days skills and tactics that might otherwise take you a lifetime!

 

Anglers of all skill levels are welcomed. It is a multi-species catch-and-release tournament hosted by Twin Cities Walleye Unlimited and Minnesota Valley In-Fishermen. 

The tournament spans four days: Thursday afternoon for pre-fishing, Friday and Saturday for the tournament, and Sunday morning for fun fishing, followed by lunch and farewells.

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During the tournament meetings on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings in the VDL Event Center, participants will hear from guest speakers as well as from each team-- who will share on a projected map of Lake Vermilion where they caught fish and the presentation they used. Learning from each other and the willingness of anglers to go into detail about where and how they catch fish is what makes this event so unique.

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Sign up with a family member or friend. If you are coming on your own with a boat we may be able to help you find a partner. There are also boats available to rent at Vermilion Dam Lodge.

Cost is $550 per person plus tax. This includes 3-nights lodging, breakfast, lunch & dinner, launching, boat slip, bait, ice, and evening networking. During the Saturday evening meeting, winners of the “Bragging Rights” Tournament will be recognized with trophies . There will also be an optional “Big Fish” pot. Lodging for those wanting to come early and pre-fish is $75 plus tax per night (meals are not included for those who come early to pre-fish, i.e. Monday, Tuesday and/or Wednesday.

The Team!

Kay Hawley - Tournament Director
Kay, is a unique individual with a wealth of experience and a strong passion for fishing. With 30 years of teaching experience and being a member of the MVIF Club since 2014, Kay brings a unique perspective to the role. In her first year with the club, she was awarded the title of MVIF "Rookie of the Year" and made history as the first woman to win first place in the annual MVIF Fall Tournament on Lake Vermilion in 2019.

Kay has dedicated countless hours to studying structure fishing and scientific angling, both on and off the water. Her goal is not only to excel in her own fishing pursuits but also to serve as a role model for other women who share her passion for fishing. She also has an impressive number of tournament wins including coming in 8th as a Co-Angler in last summer’s National Walleye Tournament in Sault Ste. Marie.

What sets Kay apart is her involvement in three fishing clubs: Minnesota Valley In-Fisherman (MVIF), Twin Cities Walleye Unlimited (TCWU), and Women Anglers of Minnesota (WAM). Through her observations, she noticed that these clubs share a common mission: to help their members become better anglers. Inspired by this shared vision, Kay conceived the idea of the Minnesota Angler Meet-Up. By uniting these clubs and fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, Kay believes they can make a significant impact on the Minnesota fishing community.

Kay’s organizational skills have been demonstrated through her successful coordination of various events, including the Open-Water Trolling Clinic at Vermilion Dam Lodge last summer. Her passion for fishing, combined with her teaching background and organizational skills, positions her to create meaningful and impactful experiences for all attendees of Minnesota Angler Meet-Up!

 

John Larson - Co-Tournament Director
John, a Navy veteran, is a highly accomplished individual with a rich background and a deep passion for aviation, fishing, and conservation. As a long-time member of MVIF and current Vice President, John has played an integral role in organizing and running the annual Fall Tournament on Vermilion for decades and  has been a pillar in the MVIF club.

John was also the President of the Airlake Aero Flying Club for an impressive 18 years and has shared his love for fishing with countless guests by taking them to beautiful Lake of the Woods near Kenora. However, his most cherished role has been serving as Ron Schara's private pilot for over 30 years. This experience has allowed John to combine his love for aviation with his passion for fishing, creating unforgettable memories.
John still bow hunts, showcasing his commitment to nature and the outdoors. John's remarkable achievements, leadership, and commitment to his hobbies and community make him a wonderful addition to the Angler Meet-Up Team.

 

Jack Naylor - Co-Tournament Director
Jack is a veteran and served as a Chinook Helicopter Pilot Instructor for two tours during the Vietnam War before becoming an air traffic controller in Minnesota. In 1995, Jack joined the MVIF club, where he quickly became a legend and a beloved member.

Jack's passion for fishing and his exceptional skills have earned him numerous accolades within the MVIF club. He has been crowned MVIF Angler of the Year an impressive 11 times. Additionally, Jack's mastery of fishing has led him to claim victory in the MVIF Fall Tournament on Vermilion not once, but three times.

Beyond his fishing achievements, Jack is known for his friendly and approachable nature. He has formed deep connections with fellow club members, who have affectionately given him the nickname "Bass Whisperer". Jack's wealth of experience and his ability to connect with others make him an invaluable asset to the team.