Cold, Snow, Ice, and Untimely Death Mark Another BWCA Fishing Opener
About this episode
The episode covers the challenges and experiences of the Paddle & Portage team during the 2026 Fishing Opener in the Boundary Waters, including the passing of Scott Stahnke.
It snowed across most of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness during the 2026 Fishing Opener. Indeed, Saturday, May 9 was marked by cold, snow and lingering ice across most of the eastern side of the wilderness. Nonetheless, the team from Paddle & Portage traveled into the BWCA once again for the fishing opener. Lake trout were caught. As were walleye. Despite numerous snow squalls, relentless gusts of wind, and cold temperatures, the trip was by all accounts a wonderful experience. After departing the BWCA on the Monday after the fishing opener, we were informed that Scott Stahnke, 73, had passed away. Scott was the owner of Ugly Baby Bait and Boats on the Gunflint Trail. The day before the opener, we'd featured Scott in a P&P article. Travel with us for all of this in this episode of the podcast, which is supported by Sawtooth Outfitters, Borderland Lodge, and Bending Branches Canoe & Kayak Paddles. Music in this episode courtesy of the Upstream Drifters and Ian Tamblyn.
Sponsors
Sawtooth Outfitters, Borderland Lodge, Bending Branches Canoe & Kayak Paddles
More episodes of Paddle and Portage Podcast
- The Magazine Story That Brought an Ohio Kid to the Boundary Waters
- Flying Over the Boundary Waters - Rescue & New Book
- Talking Gunflint Trail Coffee and BWCA Paddling with Bob from Loons Nest
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