Back to the Cabin That Started It All

Fishcamp Creative headed north this fall, back to the Northwoods cabin where it all began. A place rooted in tradition. A place where upland bird hunts, muskie strikes, and walleye witching hours have shaped stories for years.

We were welcomed by the full embrace of autumn, cold air rolling through the pines, leaves falling steady, and that unmistakable stillness only the Northwoods can offer.

The trip kicked off strong. Muskies showed up early, with multiple fish in the 35 to 42 inch range coming boatside on suckers, and a few more crushing Kramer Crankbaits @kramerbrostackle as the light began to fade. Each evening ended the same way, gathering wood, firing up the old stove, and letting the crackle of the fire push back the chill. Cabin walls lined with years of photos sparked stories of seasons past, old hunts, bigger fish, and the ones that got away.

Mornings came with bacon in the pan and coffee thick in the air. After breakfast, we laced up and stepped into the timber chasing grouse and woodcock. Bird numbers felt lower this year, making for tough hunting. A few quick flushes kept us sharp, dogs working hard, hearts jumping at the distant thunder of wings. Some days ended without a bird in hand, but never without gratitude for the chase.

Afternoons leaned in our favor.

We shifted focus to some of the region’s best walleye water. A surprise five pound smallmouth kicked off the evening bite, but everyone was waiting for walleye witching hour. It did not disappoint. Bernie and Jody put on a clinic, boating more than twenty two walleyes as the sun slipped below the treeline and the lake went calm.

As we wrapped the trip, we raised a glass to another Northwoods chapter written. Not because every hunt was perfect or every cast connected, but because tradition carried on.

The cabin that started it all reminded us again.

It is never just about the harvest.It is about the people, the place, and the stories that keep calling us back.