Rookie Reflections - by Kyle McCollor

Can hardly believe that my rookie season with MN Made is over already. Time flies when you're having fun.

First, let me clarify that this was not just my first Ice Fishing League experience this was my first ice fishing contest whatsoever. I have never held an ice rod in competition before.

My first impressions of the league was that it was very organized and professional. I was a little intimidated to say the least. I did feel a little out of place during the Zoom/Facebook live meeting, mainly because I didn't know anyone other than my partner Brian Novak. However, I do have to say that my apprehension about fitting in was over quickly.

Pre-fishing - all I can say is WOW, I had never seen anything like these guys pre-fishing before. They are running around with 3 inch augers punching holes as fast as they can, dropping a camera and moving on. Hole after hole after hole. Pre-fishing was the biggest eye opener for me. Most of these guys had the fish wired in way before the shotgun start. Speaking of the start. Until you are actually in one nothing compares to it - that arm coming down and everyone taking off to try and get to that spot first.

The choice of lakes for events must be very difficult for two reasons #1 There are just so many anglers and #2 These guys are just so good. The choice of lakes for this year I thought was perfect. They were big enough and diverse enough to be challenging.

As the season progressed I really had to come to terms with the fact that I had a long way to go to be competitive with these guys. I felt like we were one step away on each lake. We just seemed to be missing that last piece of the puzzle each time. I learned so much about fish behavior, not only because of our pre-fishing, but also just listening to the other guys talking at the weigh in. I already have used things that I learned when I have fished other lakes.
It may sound funny, but I am already looking forward and planning for next year. Speaking for myself, I left a lot on the table this year. I know we could have done so much better with just a few changes. Again, I cannot wait until next year.
In closing, I want to relate something that happened to me that really brought home the fact that these are a special bunch of guys and gals. Pre-fishing Maple Lake solo, I found myself stranded on the middle bay with a broken down wheeler. I called Brian, my partner, who lives an hour away. He told me to hang on. A couple minutes later he calls me back and told me another member is on the lake and will help me. About 10 minutes later here comes Gary Sandberg blazing down the lake in his side by side. He pulls me to the landing. At the landing, Shawn and Hunter Lankki, jump in without being asked, and help push my dead machine onto the trailer.
You guys and this league are the real deal and I feel very fortunate being involved and included.

Thanks Again!

Kyle McCollor