Published Monday, September 24, 2007

Fall fishing in Otter Tail County is gaining in popularity. Along with the thrill of landing a fish is being outdoors is the cool and crisp air and witnessing the rich colors of changing leaves near the shorelines.

Fewer boaters this time of year also means that those trying to lure fish, for the most part, have the lake pretty much to themselves — especially on weekdays.

These days well-equipped tech-savvy anglers are more likely to push their fishing seasons past Labor Day in pursuit of walleye, bass, pike, and muskies.

"The popularity of fall fishing has definitely increased," walleye fishing guide Ross Hagemeister said. "This fall I’ll be taking people on fishing outings well into October.”

Hagemeister, other guides and savvy fishermen have increased their knowledge of lake ecology and fish behavior in the fall.

He’s been a guide on Otter Tail Lake and area lakes for 10 years. While spending 60 to 70 hours a week on the lake guiding, Hagemeister has developed a solid grasp and strong working knowledge of walleye fishing.

“I try hard to ensure fishing success for people who come out with me onto the lake,” he said. “My techniques on both the guiding level and fishing level are very refined — in order to ensure that success.”

His service includes boat, rods, reels, tackle, life preservers, bait and rain gear. After the trip his clients have the opportunity to take pictures of their catches. Hagemeister cleans the walleyes and sends his clients home with fresh fillets.

“Sometimes people surprise themselves, especially those who are a little wary of heading out onto the water when it’s a little cold or when there are rain clouds on the horizon,” he said. “I’d say that 99 percent of those people, who venture out with me and catch fish, come back to shore really feeling good about their fishing experience — and what they’ve accomplished.”

Twenty years ago area fishing boats were not as big or as powerful as they are today.

“The older boats weren't as steady and stable as the larger and newer class of boats,” Hagemeister said.

“It was common to get wet from slashing waves while riding across a lake. That’s not the case today.”

Today's boats, such as Hagemeister's large Lund boat, offer a dry and comfortable ride for his clients while they fish the lakes of Otter Tail County.

Anglers can also fish more comfortably on chilly fall days because they stay warmer and drier in high-tech clothing. Sophisticated depthfinders and navigation tools, such as GPS, have made it easier to find both the fish and fishing locations, Hagemeister said.

He’s a busy fishing guide whose schedule fills up quickly, and already is taking reservations for walleye fishing for the 2008 season. In recent years Hagemesiter also has been a guide for winter ice fishing.

His phone number is 218-495-3140, or you can call toll-free at 877-540-6087.