On March 6, 2026, Hometown Hero Outdoors launched its annual Lake of the Woods ice fishing trip, bringing together 17 veterans and first responders for a three-day outdoor experience in northern Minnesota.
Participants traveled more than 12.5 miles out onto Lake of the Woods, where they spent the weekend fishing, building connections, and creating lasting memories on the ice.
Three Days on the Ice
The trip offered a full immersion into one of the Midwest’s premier ice fishing destinations. Over the course of three days, participants experienced consistent fishing action, shared meals on the ice, and embraced the unique environment that Lake of the Woods is known for.
From early mornings to evenings in the fish houses, the group enjoyed steady success — with plenty of fish caught and even more stories shared.
But as with every Hometown Hero Outdoors trip, the impact went beyond the catch.
Connection, Camaraderie, and Reset
Time spent on the ice created space for participants to unwind, connect, and step away from the demands of daily life. Whether inside the fish house or out on the frozen lake, conversations came naturally and camaraderie grew quickly.
Trips like this highlight the mission of Hometown Hero Outdoors — providing outdoor experiences that support mental wellness, peer connection, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Community Support Made It Possible
The success of the 2026 Lake of the Woods ice fishing trip was made possible through the support of local businesses and partners who stepped up in a meaningful way.
Special thanks to:
- Borderview Lodge for allowing access to their plowed road and donating a sleeper fish house
- Outdoors Again for donating bait for all participants
- Lake of the Woods Pizza for providing pizza for the group on the first night
These partnerships continue to play a critical role in making high-quality outdoor experiences accessible to veterans and first responders.
More Than a Fishing Trip
While Lake of the Woods is known for its world-class ice fishing, this trip represented something more.
It was about:
- Strengthening relationships
- Creating shared experiences
- Supporting mental health through the outdoors
- Building a community that extends beyond the weekend
For those who traveled out onto the frozen lake, the memories made will last long after the ice melts.
