Brainerd Ice Fishing Extravaganza

Highway 371 between BIR and Hole in the Day Bay on Gull Lake will be a very busy stretch Saturday, as thousands of anglers venture out on the ice for the annual Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza.

State Patrol Sergent Curt Mowers is asking motorists to slow down, and be alert for lane closures. Highway 371 traffic will be single lane at Gull Lake to allow for a shuttle bus - vehicle drop off site. Contest participants and spectators are encouraged to use the shuttle service, which is provided from BIR north of Baxter.

Motorists not involved with the contest are encouraged to use an alternate route before noon and after 3 p.m.

Brainerd Area Fisheries Supervisor Tim Brastrup is asking participants to bring a plastic bag with them, and fill it with water for their catch while waiting in line to register for prizes. Brastrup says the fishing contest has little impact on the health of the fishery on Gull Lake.