The importance of fishing in Minnesota goes back thousands of years: first as a means of critical subsistence and then, in the last 200 years, as a major economic influence. In the 1800s, anglers seeking pristine lakes with ample fish traveled to Minnesota on the railroads. The widespread use of automobiles and an improving road system rapidly increased the state's accessibility in the 1900s, and resorts sprouted everywhere. During the early tourist boom, the state was also home to countless boat builders, tackle manufacturers, and other fishing-related businesses. Images of America: Minnesotas Angling Past provides a view of the time when boats were made from wood and propelled by rowing; when great fishing spots were found through experience rather than electronics; and, for some, a suit or dress was proper attire for a day of fishing. This book includes rare images from across the state that capture memorable days of angling, such as the 1955 Leech Lake Muskie Rampage.

I spent many weekends during 2012 traveling across Minnesota to visit museums and searching through archives for interesting photos of anglers from years past. There are a lot of great photos sitting in boxes and binders and I enjoyed having the opportunity to share those in this collection.

Where to Purchase

You will find Minnesota's Angling Past at national retailers such as Barnes & Noble and many online retailers such as Amazon.com. If you are in Minnesota, please visit these fine local organizations to purchase the book:

A Darling Gift Shop Alexandria, MN

Bob Mitchell's Fly Shop Lake Elmo, MN

Books Revisited Saint Cloud, MN

Charlie's Bazaar Alexandria, MN

Cherry Street Books Alexandria, MN

Department of Natural Resources Gift Shop Saint Paul, MN

Douglas County Library Alexandria, MN

Emily's Used Books Brainerd, MN

Halls House Of Optics Saint Cloud, MN

Minnesota Fishing Museum Little Falls, MN

Northland Arboretum Brainerd, MN

Sunnies General Store Alexandria, MN

Trumm Drug Alexandria, MN

Walgreens #2713 Minneapolis, MN

Walgreens #3101 Saint Cloud, MN

Walgreens #5635 Brainerd, MN

Walgreens #12403 North Oaks, MN