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“Poor Man’s Lobster” coming up on Prairie Sportsman

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eelpout, a freshwater cod known for its lobster-like flavor
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Download a photo of an eelpout also known as "poor man's lobster."

 

GRANITE FALLS, Minn. —  Host Bret Amundson is angling for eelpout, a freshwater cod known for its elongated body and lobster-like flavor, and checks out Ken Schmitz’s paintings on old tools and wood. “Poor Man’s Lobster” is coming up on Pioneer PBS Sunday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. 

Fishing for burbot, also known as eelpout, has become increasingly popular in recent years. What was once considered a non-desirable catch is now targeted by anglers, and the Minnesota DNR has reclassified burbot as a game fish. Lure companies have even ramped up production of jigs designed for eelpout angling. While diehards have known that the firm meat is tasty, the sustainability of the species has been a concern and catch-and-release is encouraged. Host Bret Amundson travels to northern Minnesota to learn more about targeting burbot with guides Jason Rylander and Jason Durham, who have become known for their pout prowess. Stops at local bait shops reveal increased angler interest, and Matt Erickson, owner of the Big Nasty Jig company in Cass Lake, shows Bret how specialized lures are made. 

After retiring from his county road grader job, Ken Schmitz of Big Bend was inspired to paint horses and wildlife scenes on skulls. When his grandchildren encouraged him to enter three of his first paintings in the county fair, he took first and second place ribbons. Then the self-taught artist started painting on a variety of junked items, such as hand saws and disc blades, and he won grand championships. While Ken continues to paint on whatever looks interesting, like a dented cream can or deer hide, his preferred medium is old wood.  

About Prairie Sportsman

Prairie Sportsman an Emmy-awarded series that celebrates our love of the outdoors to hunt, fish and recreate, while promoting environmental stewardship. Prairie Sportsman’s team includes Cindy Dorn, producer/writer; Bret Amundson, host/editor; and Dylan Curfman, editor/videographer. The 2022 season is made possible by funding from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, SafeBasements of Minnesota, Live Wide Open, Western Minnesota Prairie Waters and members of Pioneer PBS.

About Pioneer PBS

Established in 1966, Pioneer PBS is an award-winning, viewer-supported television station dedicated to sharing local stories of the region with the world. For more information visit www.pioneer.org.