Looking back at past winters

This is the time of year when I am usually in limbo waiting for the hard water season, which is usually right around the corner.

 

Some folks are still having good luck fishing in our area lakes. I am having all that I can do to get my boat ready for storage. I also have a few other things to do to get ready for winter. It is easy to say, but I am physically not able to do the things that I once did.

 

In a better light, I can still do a lot of things that I have always done. I can still drive to the cabin and enjoy some quality time close to nature. This will give me something to look forward to over the next few months. I have been reluctant to face the fact of the coming winter, not because I don’t embrace the season, but because I am not as mobile as I once was. My sons and grandkids would never mention my name in the same sentence as the word running, and ice is not my friend when walking.

 

I have always embraced the first snowfall of winter, and I also enjoy watching the birds at the feeders during the winter months. I have the feeders ready and waiting for the birds to show up again.

 

When I coached hockey, I would get excited for winter because of the season ahead. When my sons were in hockey, I worked nights at Wilson’s for part of their time in the sport. I would come home after work and hear the sound of pucks banging off of the boards at Academy Park. This sound brings back fond memories and still gives me a warm feeling whenever I hear it.

 

Deer harvest numbers available online

People who are interested in deer harvest data can find preliminary data for 2026 and final past year harvest information on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ deer reports and statistics web page (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/mammals/deer/management/statistics.html). The current numbers are updated twice each week on Monday and Thursday. The page also features an interactive map and graph.

 

In Minnesota, archery deer season began Sept. 19 and continues through Thursday, Dec. 31. The statewide firearms deer season begins Saturday, Nov. 7, with various closing dates depending on a hunter’s deer permit area. Muzzleloader season begins Saturday, Nov. 28, and continues through Sunday, Dec. 13.

 

Please take the time to remember our troops that are serving now and those that have served before them. They are the reason that we have all of the Freedoms that we enjoy today.