Virtual tournaments are becoming increasingly popular as smartphone apps such as Fish Donkey have designed platforms to create a virtual tournament. Virtual tournaments promote catch, record, and release while fishing on your lake, on your time! 

Anoka Ramsey Outdoors will use Fish Donkey to organize youth tournaments. Tournaments typically run for one month. Prizes are awarded for winners in different fish categories. A candid photo category will also allow those kids that don't catch a fish to submit a picture of them fishing and potentially win. We understand those bad days of fishing happen. We just want kids to fish!

Virtual Fishing Tournaments have been postponed for 2024 due to ice conditions.

It is our goal to hold a community event on the ice during the winter. All families and kids are welcome. Ice fishing pros and members of our summer Jr. Bassers team will be on hand to answer questions and show kids ice fishing basics. We encourage participants to bring their own ice fishing rods and reels. However, we will also have equipment to use for those who have never ice fished. 

When: Saturday, February 24, 2024
Time: Noon - 4pm
Where: Twin Lakes Park (Boat Launch), Nowthen, MN

This event is free for Anoka/ Ramsey youth of all ages. Parents are encouraged to assist. No equipment is necessary to participate.

Due to our unprecedented warm weather and ever-changing ice conditions, pre-registration is required to ensure we can keep everyone updated. The safety of our families is our number one priority. Follow the link below to pre-register today!

This event was cancelled due to ice conditions. We look forward to seeing you all next Winter!

For those that want to start gearing up for this fun sport, we have compiled a list of must haves that will get you and your family started!

1. Ice fishing rod and reel combo
2. 5 gallon bucket to carry equipment, it also doubles as a chair!
3. Ice line, 2-4 lb recommended for panfish
4. Tungsten jigs
5. Soft plastics (or live bait)- soft plastics hold up better fish after fish, they are a great choice for young kids
6. Tip up- setting up a tip up for northern pike can lead to a thrilling fight for kids! As a bonus, you won't have to worry about them jigging that rod just right or a tangled line on a rod. Just wait for the flag to go up and the race is on!
7. Ice auger
8. Slush scoop
9. Ice fishing sonar, such as a Vexilar- while these units are not absolutely needed, they will significantly increase the likelihood of catching fish
10. Comfortable and warm winter clothing- being comfortable will keep you on the ice longer