As autumn colors sweep the Brainerd Lakes Area, local anglers are heading out for prime walleye, bass, and northern pike fishing.

 

Gull Lake delivers standout walleye action, especially after dark on shallow flats and at dawn along deeper breaks.

 

Fishing sharp drop-offs near weed beds with live minnows or chubs on Lindy rigs, as well as jigging spoons, can boost catches.

 

Pelican Lake remains productive—live bait rigs trailing large minnows or nightcrawlers attract fish around structure and weed edges, while spinners or spoons work well as water cools.

 

Mille Lacs Lake tempts anglers with diverse opportunities: walleyes shift from deep daytime haunts to shallow flats at dusk, and smallmouth bass are aggressive in rocky bays.

 

Locals report increased walleye activity around 18 to 28 feet on Gull, while bass bite well on various lures in Pelican’s warm shallows.

 

This fall, experimenting with bait sizes and targeting wind-blown shorelines can make for memorable days.

Loonfest 2025 will energize Brainerd, Minnesota on September 19–20, bringing two nights of top country and rock acts to Stewart C. Mills Field.

 

Friday features a lively country lineup, with local favorites If Nothing Else, the emotional energy of Eddie & The Getaway, Texas star Chase Bryant, and Nashville hitmakers LANCO.

 

Saturday’s focus shifts to rock, including Bullets & Butterflies, Midwest rockers Make Fire, alt-metal mainstays Earshot, hard-hitting Drowning Pool, and crowd-rousing Saliva.

 

Tickets are on sale online and locally at SE’z Bar.

 

Organized by Brainerd entrepreneurs, the festival aims to boost the city’s music profile and benefits Vigilant Guardians, supporting veterans.

 

Discounted rides from Brainerd Taxi help ensure everyone gets home safely.

 

Don’t miss the inaugural Loonfest — a new highlight for local live music lovers.

Wadena, Minnesota — At age 84, Lolita Myers has become a taekwondo grandmaster, defying age expectations with her remarkable achievement.

 

Myers first stepped onto the mats at 52, driven by a lifelong passion for martial arts.

 

Her steady dedication led her to create Mid-Minnesota Tae Kwon Do in 1996, where she’s taught countless students.

 

Reaching grandmaster required years of expert instruction and mastery of technical skills.

 

In July, she passed her Seventh Dan exam, impressing with advanced forms, weapon training, and self-defense.

 

Grandmaster Eric Greenquist, her mentor, calls her an inspiration—especially for women aspiring in a once male-dominated field.

 

Myers’ achievement celebrates the growing opportunities for all ages in Wadena's taekwondo scene.

 

Her journey proves that perseverance and learning have no expiration date.

The Bridge on 7th overnight shelter has reopened in Brainerd, offering adults facing homelessness a safe place to stay during the colder months.

 

Run by the Bridges of Hope nonprofit, the shelter welcomes guests nightly from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m., operating seasonally from September through April.

 

Since launching in December 2021, the Bridge on 7th has delivered over 11,400 nights of shelter for more than 480 people.

 

In March 2025, Bridges of Hope called for year-round access due to new city bans against unauthorized camping, but the Brainerd City Council opted in April to keep the shelter on its seasonal schedule.

 

This decision has raised concerns about support for the unhoused during summer.

 

Still, Bridges of Hope and Executive Director Jana Shogren remain dedicated to connecting guests with long-term housing solutions and assistance.

 

The community continues to seek lasting ways to protect its most vulnerable residents.

UPDATE 09/04/25: Nisswa Police confirm the individual has been identified, no confirmed information about arrests or charges yet.

 

Residents of Nisswa and Pequot Lakes are on alert after a series of graffiti incidents have defaced homes and businesses in recent weeks.

 

On August 25, a Nisswa homeowner and the Nisswa Motel were both targeted by vandals, prompting swift investigation by local police.

 

Similar damage was reported earlier in August on Government Drive, and again in June on County Road 11 in Pequot Lakes, marking a disturbing pattern of vandalism across both communities.

 

Authorities urge residents to stay vigilant, promptly report suspicious activity, and secure their properties with deterrents like cameras or motion lights.

 

The continued partnership between Nisswa and Pequot Lakes Police shows a strong commitment to protecting residents and restoring community pride.

 

If you have information about these incidents, contact the police—your help is crucial in keeping Nisswa and Pequot Lakes safe.

Balsam Moon Preserve welcomes the community to its second annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 6, from 2 to 7 p.m. at 3148 Bungo Creek Lane SW in Pine River.

 

Guests can watch yarn spinning by Esther Endicott and spoon carving by Mike Austad, while a 2:30 p.m. tour explores diverse building styles and solar innovations.

 

Children will enjoy croquet, nature art, a scavenger hunt, and flower arranging starting at 2:30 p.m.

 

Interactive food experiences include corn shelling, acorn biscuit baking, wild rice roll making, and cider pressing.

 

A seed sharing station encourages gardeners to swap their best seeds.

 

Attendees can stroll blooming gardens, try the labyrinth, and take in live music from Devil’s Dodger and Matthew Weiss from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

 

The evening meal at 5:30 features locally sourced pulled pork, roasted vegetables, and potluck dishes.

 

Balsam Moon Preserve operates on a reciprocity model, welcoming contributions of all kinds to ensure access for everyone.

 

Dress for the weather, and join in celebrating the harvest with neighbors.

Major construction begins Tuesday, September 2, 2025, on Audubon Way in Brainerd, Minnesota.

 

The work is set to last around seven to eight weeks, limiting Audubon Way to local traffic only, with occasional full closures for specific tasks.

 

Residents and local drivers should expect possible delays and plan alternative routes as needed.

 

Motorists are urged to pay attention to updated signage and detours throughout the project.

 

Questions can be directed to Project Engineer Alex Bitter at 218-316-3627 or alex.bitter@widseth.com.

 

Meanwhile, work has also started on a new single-lane roundabout at Business Highway 371 and Willow Street, which began August 4 and will improve safety and traffic flow.

 

Travelers should stay updated on area detours and check the City of Brainerd website for details.

The Crosslake Ideal Lions Club welcomes back its popular Music in the Square series for 2025, bringing summer nights alive in the Legacy Gardens at Crosslake Town Square.

 

This newly rebranded event will treat locals and visitors to free live music every Saturday from June 28 through August 30, with performances running from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

 

Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets to relax and soak up the fun.

 

Adding to the lively scene, Lake Country Crafts and Cones will be on hand every week serving ice cream, making each evening extra sweet.

 

Musicians interested in joining future lineups can reach out for more information via email.

 

Come celebrate community and the joy of live music right in the heart of Crosslake.

After 17 years as a beloved staple of Jenkins,  Sunset Cinema will permanently close on September 1, 2025.

 

The heartfelt announcement, shared on social media, sparked a wave of sadness and nostalgia from local moviegoers who consider the theater a cultural cornerstone.

 

Patrons recalled fond memories, marking Sunset Cinema as a place where families and friends gathered for countless memorable nights.

 

The owners expressed deep gratitude to the community and praised their dedicated staff, especially highlighting a manager with over 1,300 consecutive days of service.

 

Residents are encouraged to show appreciation to the team in the coming weeks.

 

Sunset Cinema's closure mirrors a wider trend, with iconic venues like Jacksonville’s Sun-Ray Cinema and Hollywood’s Cinelounge Sunset shutting down recently.

 

As Jenkins prepares to say goodbye, the enduring legacy and cherished memories of Sunset Cinema remain.

Lola, a charming 8-month-old Great Pyrenees-German Shepherd mix, is hoping to find her forever family at The Babinski Foundation in Pequot Lakes, Minnesota.

 

This affectionate pup boasts a soft tan and yellow coat, hinting at her impressive lineage.

 

Expected to grow large and strong, Lola already displays the loyal and graceful qualities of her breeds.

 

She is currently in the "Foster to Adopt" program, fully spayed and ready to bond with a loving household.

 

While house training is still needed due to her young age, Lola’ new family can easily guide her through this stage.

 

Visit her in Dog Kennel #10 during shelter hours, Tuesday to Saturday 8:30 AM–5:00 PM or Sunday 12:00–5:00 PM.

 

Adoption fees for puppies are $300, helping support animals in need.

 

Meet Lola and embark on a rewarding journey with this lovable companion.

The 2025 Minnesota State Sporting Clays Championship returns August 20–24 at Hunts Point Gun Club in Pequot Lakes, delivering excitement for shooting enthusiasts of all experience levels.

 

Presented by Federal, the event features over $15,000 in added prize money, creative target presentations, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

 

Esteemed setters such as Pete Melloy and Game Unlimited Crew, Ed Prechel & Top Gun Shooting Sports, and John Barr & Hunts Point Staff are crafting demanding courses to challenge every competitor.

 

Special attractions include a new non-resident division, plenty of trophies, exciting options, a vendor fair, and the fan-favorite Make-A-Break competition.

 

Guests can access on-site dry camping, nightly appetizers and drinks, plus live country music from Minnesota’s own Up South.

 

Enjoy BRAT NIGHT on Friday and Saturday and a memorable Von Hanson Steak Dinner on Saturday night, alongside whiskey and cigars for extra flair.

 

Don’t miss Pequot Lakes’ signature shooting celebration.

Paul Bunyan State Trail stands as a vibrant symbol of adventure and community spirit in Minnesota.

 

Transformed from an abandoned railway thanks to Terry McGaughey’s vision, this 120-mile trail is celebrated for its rich history and scenic beauty.

 

Local craftsmanship shines, with Anderson Brothers Construction paving key stretches and managing recent $2.58 million repairs ahead of schedule between Pine River and Hackensack.

 

With over 1,000 geocaches along its route and challenging terrain through Chippewa National Forest, the trail draws both adventure seekers and families.

 

Highlights include summer duck races in Pine River, the famed Bemidji Blue Ox Marathon, and year-round access for cyclists, runners, and winter sports enthusiasts.

 

Crossing 21 lakes and four rivers, the trail remains a beloved destination, recognized nationally with Hall of Fame honors and continual community engagement.

 

It endures as a true showcase of Minnesota’s natural heritage and recreational pride.

Passport Restaurant in downtown Brainerd stands out for blending international cuisine with hometown warmth.

 

Located at 606 Laurel Street, the vibrant eatery, led by Matt and Jacquelyn Calos, has quickly become a favorite stop for locals craving fresh flavors and culinary creativity.

 

Passport invites guests to explore new cultures each month, with rotating menus featuring the authentic dishes of countries from Morocco to Japan.

 

Signature items like pot pie, lasagna, curry bowl, and spring rolls are always available, while monthly specials add global flair.

 

The historic, artsy interior and inviting patio set the scene for memorable meals and lively conversations, whether indoors or outside.

 

Open daily—including brunch—Passport wins praise for its inventive menus, attentive service, and commitment to bringing world flavors to the heart of Brainerd.

Lakes Tavern in Pequot Lakes stands out as a welcoming destination known for delicious food and a vibrant, friendly atmosphere.

 

Perfect for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners, the tavern’s diverse menu ensures there’s something to please every palate.

 

Guests rave about favorites like the flavorful Scotch Eggs with andouille sausage, the house-made Ellsworth Wisconsin Cheese Curds served with sriracha aioli, and the sesame-crusted Seared Ahi Tuna paired with ponzu and wasabi.

 

For heartier appetites, the Marinated Flank Steak topped with béarnaise sauce is a top choice.

 

Daily specials, a full bar, happy hour deals, and lively summer patio events, including live music, add to the appeal.

 

Conveniently located north of Nisswa, Lakes Tavern invites both locals and visitors to savor a truly memorable dining experience.

On June 16, 2025, two EF-1 tornadoes swept through the Brainerd Lakes area, leaving significant damage and widespread power outages across Cass and Crow Wing counties.

 

The first tornado touched down near Casino in Cass County at 4:21 p.m., moving east for 11.5 miles before ending near Gull Lake.

 

Just minutes later, a second tornado began west of Merrifield, traveling nearly 11 miles before dissipating near the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.

 

The National Weather Service reported both storms reached peak winds of 100 mph.

 

Extensive tree damage blocked local roads, with around 2,000 residents losing power, according to Sheriff Eric Klang.

 

Cleanup crews quickly restored most roads by 7:30 p.m., and authorities confirmed no serious injuries or major structural damage.

 

Officials urge continued caution as neighbors unite to help the area recover.

The Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota’s 2025-26 season, “Life Journeys”, promises an inspiring reflection on the stages of life through choral masterpieces.

 

Guided by executive director Kennedy Niska and conductor Brian Stubbs, this Brainerd-area powerhouse celebrates its 24th year with dynamic programming and more than 150 dedicated performers.

 

Concert highlights include the opening Cabaret event on September 27, the intergenerational Songs for the Ages in November, and the crowd-pleasing Disney Spectacular in February.

 

Notably, the season features “Alzheimer’s Stories” in April—a moving choral work exploring the journey of Alzheimer’s from the perspectives of individuals and families.

 

Youth and adult singers are invited to audition this August at the Franklin Arts Center, with the Legacy organization especially seeking tenors and basses.

 

Visit the Legacy Chorale’s website for ticket releases, audition details, and to join in this musical celebration of life’s moments.