Red River Area Sportsmen's Club

Author: Rebecca Truesdell

  • July 16, 2026 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:30 p.m.

    Attendance: Curt M., Josh B., Leroy S., Kevin M., Pat B., TJ T., Greg B., Justin K., Rich T., Greg G., Becci T., Melissa S.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Curt/Greg G) to approve June 18 minutes

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Bank signee paperwork has been started. Greg G and Brad are being removed and Rich and Justin added. Need to check on the current debit card under Greg G and set up one for Rich.
    • Still need to get to the post office.

    Vice President

    • The Operation Zero Bikes & Brews is on August 15. Would the club be interested in being a sponsor again
      Decided on $550 – MSC (Greg/Josh) Approved. Justin will be there for KFO and said if he had help could have a table for the club.

    Secretary

    • The Bailey Bernstein 5K is on September 26. Does the club want to sponsor again this year? Decided on $500 (Justin/TJ) – Approved.

    Treasurer

    • Checking $56,429  / Thrivent $37,473 / Legacy Fund $27,116
    • Expenses: $84.87 Catfish Tournament, $550 Operation Zero, $500 Bernstein Foundation
    • MSC (Greg G/Mel)
    • Tuesday July 27 meeting with Tom and his team at Thrivent to set up charitable fund to receive online donations through Thrivent.

    Board of Directors

    • Greg G let us know that Mooreton has applied for a grant through us with ND Game & Fish and it was approved..

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • July 30 – Preserve the Tradition Museum. Will leave at 5:15 p.m.
    • August 20 – Zoo Tour
    • Will have to have Junior Wildlife at Hughes Shelter in November because of Zoo Wild Game Night.

    Public Relations

    • Upcoming Community Events
      • NDSCS Block Party on August 23 is a booth opportunity for us to be visible in the community and sell raffle tickets. Items to have with include information about area shooting ranges, Jr Wildlife schedule. Need three volunteers to help with it.
      • August 23 – NDSCS Block Party, September 19 – Headwaters Parade,
        September 26 – NDSCS Parade, October 24 – Zoo Boo
      • August 29 – KFP Experience from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with Archery, Fishing, Displays & Booths, Food
    • Website redesign is complete. If anyone notices content updates or performance issues let Becci know.
    • Please use the new canopy, table cloth and sail flag at all club events and those events we go to.
    • Please remember to share your photos with the club (redriverareasportsmen@gmail.com) and follow and share our social posts.

    Smoker

    • Pre-sale tickets have been decided on and the permit is going to be submitted to the city.
    • Church and community center are set for October 23 and 24
    • Need to talk to Driftwood about doing the bar again
    • Greg G has a Savage 6.5 gun package to sell to the club ($400)

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Fall Hunts
      • September 12 – Goose Hunt
      • September 19 – Marv Manock Waterfowl Hunt
        • Set up online registration for 15 kids
        • Also set up a mentor/volunteer registration form
      • October 3 – Youth Pheasant Hunt
        • Should we check with Hankinson about sharing both ours and their dates to give more opportunity for people to sign up?
      • October 24 – Ladies Hunt
      • TBD – Band of Brothers Hunt

    Internal Club Contests (must be submitted by the end of the March meeting)

    • RRASC Internal Hunting Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Deer/Elk/etc.
      • Turkey Beard
      • Pheasant Tail Feather
      • Waterfowl, # of species harvested 
    • RRASC Internal Fishing (Fresh/Salt Water) Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories 

    Other Business

    • Building Plans – Robert Jensen has notified that the new city wellness center is not planning to include space for senior citizens center. Will continue to check into other possibilities.
    • Mooreton Pond – Still working on cable request to fix a couple of the docks. The fishing pier could use hooks to help attach the cable to instead of having to go underneath.
    • Brushvale Dock – It is not in the river. Richland County Park Board is responsible for this, Greg is going to reach out to see what is going on.

    Correspondence

    • Thank you from MN DNR for our donation to the fish rearing ponds.
    • Twist of Fate donation request for their annual hunt. $500 (Curt/Justin) Approved

    Other Upcoming Area Events

    • KFO Family Day – August 29
    • Mooreton Trap Range Labor Day Shoot – September 7
    • Wild Game Night – November 21 

    The next meeting is August 20 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    The meeting adjourned at 8:29 p.m.

  • June 18, 2026 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:31 p.m.

    Attendance: Rich T., Josh B., Greg G., Greg B., Becci T., Curt M., Justin K., TJ T., Kelly C., Cindie V., Melissa S.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Kelly/Justin) to approve May 21 minutes

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Thank you to the group that helped put the docks in at Mooreton Pond (Greg G., Curt, Jerry, Corey).
      • There was only one of the repairs completed. Greg G. has notes on the remaining repairs.

    Vice President

    • Kelly has chosen to step down from his new position as VP because of strong interest by Justin to fill the role. He has enough other responsibilities personally and is happy to remain in his previous role as a Board of Director.
      • As president, Rich has appointed Justin Kratz to the VP role (approved by Board).
      • Rich also appointed Kelly Carlson to Justin’s board position (approved by Board).
      • These will remain in place until the next elections.

    Secretary

    • The club has been contacted by the Red River Folkways Market in Fargo to see if we would be interested in having a club booth one weekend during the season (July 11-October 31).
      • It is on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Broadway in Fargo downtown.
      • They offer this to two non-profits each weekend.
      • Based on their information, we would mainly be able to share details about Junior Wildlife and our fishing/hunting activities.
      • Concerns about conflicting with Cass County Wildlife – Kelly will check with them
      • Possibility of the NDWF helping out with it if we are interested in pursuing.

    Treasurer

    • Checking $58,569  / Thrivent Accounts $64,388
    • Expenses: Catfish Tournament Prizes $250, Jr Wildlife/Econo $174.91, Smoker/Guns $5,205.51
    • Income: $200 donations
    • MSC (Greg G/TJ)

    Board of Directors

    • Justin discussed his wanting to be the VP and how he wants to make sure we continue to keep the club in a good position and it doesn’t go anywhere.

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • June 11 – Family Fishing Night
      • Had 11 kids and 8 adults participate. They all had a good time, but would like to do more fishing and less talking.
      • Thank you to TJ, Steve, Cindie, Justin, Melissa, Greg B., Rich and Becci for helping out.
    • July 30 – Preserve the Tradition Museum
      • Bus is in working condition and can be utilized for field trip. Will leave at 5:15 p.m.
    • August 20 – Zoo Tour
    • Will have to have Junior Wildlife at Hughes Shelter in November because of Zoo Wild Game Night.

    Public Relations

    • Upcoming Community Events
      • August 23 – NDSCS Block Party, September 19 – Headwaters Parade,
        September 26 – NDSCS Parade, October 24 – Zoo Boo
      • August 29 – KFP Experience from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with Archery, Fishing, Displays & Booths, Food
    • Website redesign is complete. If anyone notices content updates or performance issues let Becci know.
    • Please use the new canopy, table cloth and sail flag at all club events and those events we go to.
    • Please remember to share your photos with the club (redriverareasportsmen@gmail.com) and follow and share our social posts.

    Mooreton Pond

    • This fall when they are removed, we should plan on trying to get repairs done.
      • Fishing pier needs cables, did not get the float fixed, up rights are bent.
      • Boat ramp is okay.
      • SW dock needs wheels replaced, cables and the decking is aging.
      • NE dock needs cables.
    • River rock needed. Richland County request to have them add more. This would help with dock installation in the spring.

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Dick Bell Catfish Tournament (Recap)
      • Improved turnout from last year with 10 adults and 15 kids (13 of the kids caught catfish)
      • Thank you to Greg B., Rich and Becci for helping Justin run it.
      • Looking in to be a part of an area tournament series that would increase the number of participants.
      • Discussed having more club funds set aside to start the cash prizes out higher next year.
    • Fall Activities
      • September 12 – Goose Hunt
      • September 19 – Marv Manock Waterfowl Hunt
      • October 3 – Youth Pheasant Hunt
      • October 24 – Smoker / Ladies Hunt

    Internal Club Contests (must be submitted by the end of the March meeting)

    • RRASC Internal Hunting Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Deer/Elk/etc.
      • Turkey Beard
      • Pheasant Tail Feather
      • Waterfowl, # of species harvested 
    • RRASC Internal Fishing (Fresh/Salt Water) Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories 

    Other Business

    • Boy Scout NLC request for donation – pass as we already donated straight to Camp Wilderness to update air rifles.
    • MN DNR rearing ponds – $1,000 donation MSC (Cindie/Melissa)

    Other Upcoming Area Fundraiser Events

    • KFO Family Day – August 29
    • Wild Game Night – November 21 

    The next meeting is July 16 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

  • May 21, 2026 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:37 p.m.

    Attendance: Becci T., Rich T., Josh B., Patrick B., Justin K., Joe K., Greg B., Greg G., Cindie V., Kelly C.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Greg B./Cindie) to approve March 19 minutes

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Spring Banquet
      • Thank you to Cindie for planning the food and speaker
      • Thank you to presenter Luke Schalekamp from the MN DNR
      • Congratulations to all 2025-2026 Awardees
    • Special thank you to Wayne Beyer for his Daily News article “Faces of the Wildlife Club”
    • Work day needs to be scheduled for the Mooreton Pond docks.
      • Corey Skovolt needs to be contacted for use of payloader. We will also need a welder that day.
      • Wheels need to be replaced on the SW dock.
      • We will try to do it in the afternoon/evening.
    • BJ Krantz (with ND G&F approval) is requesting assistance for shells to remove Cormorants in the Richland County area – $500 total
      • RWC committed $250, RRASC is asked to cover the balance of $250 MSC (Kelly/Justin)
    • RRASC received $3,000 from the ND G&F Encouraging Tomorrow’s Hunters Grant Program
      • This grant supports our fall hunts (shells, supplies, etc.)
      • We should inventory what is in storage before purchasing for this fall
    • Elections for President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, 2 Directors
      • President – Rich Truesdell (MSC Kelly/Justin)
      • Vice President – Kelly Carlson (paper voting)
      • Secretary – Becci Truesdell (MSC Kelly/Cindie)
      • Treasurer – Greg Braun (MSC Cindie/Rich)
      • Directors – Cindie VanTassel, Patrick Brejcha, Greg Gerou (MSC Pat/Greg B), Justin Kratz

    Secretary

    • We received a thank you from Cedric Lofberg. Steve Truesdell fixed a fishing rod for their family.
    • The Red Door Art Gallery reached out about donating a bunch of prints then no longer needed for displaying.
      Becci will reach out to set up a time to collect them.

    Treasurer

    • Checking $63,794  / Thrivent Accounts $63,600
    • Expenses: $75 Heitkamp Derby, $1228.47 Website, $92.48 Jr Wildlife & Heitkamp Derby, $8.00 Clip Boards, $660 NDSCS Clay Target, $350 Hankinson Trap, $800 Rocky Mountain Elk, $990 EMS Storage, $25 Dan Onchuck Memorial, $25,000 moved to Thrivent, $110 Grippers Spring Banquet, $230 Chamber Bucks Spring Banquet, $419 Wahpeton Deli Spring Banquet, $108 Daily News Herding Fishing Derby, $12.49 Econo, $100 Mooreton Sportsmans Club, $4602.46 Vince Herding Fishing Derby
    • Income: $745 donations
    • MSC (Cindie/Kelly)

    Board of Directors

    • Rich – Taking on trophies for tournaments to be made in-house. He currently has all the materials and we are going to work with Dustin Hill to print up a bunch of plaques. Need to make sure all the old materials have been picked up from City Hall storage. If anyone reaches out to donate old trophies, we will take them.

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • May 21 Outdoor Cooking – 10 kids attended, Justin planned the cooking activities
    • June 11 – Family Fishing Night at Kidder from 6-8:30 p.m. We will need volunteers to help with stations. Open to all families.
    • July 23 – Taxidermy Museum Tour. Unless the bus is fixed by then, we will need to use volunteer driver vehicles.
    • August 20 – Zoo Tour

    Public Relations

    • Upcoming Community Events
      • June 6 – Blue Goose Parade, August 23 – NDSCS Block Party, September 19 – Headwaters Parade,
        September 26 – NDSCS Parade, October 24 – Zoo Boo
      • August 29 – KFP Experience from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with Archery, Fishing, Displays & Booths, Food
    • Website redesign is complete. If anyone notices content updates or performance issues let Becci know.
    • Please use the new canopy, table cloth and sail flag at all club events and those events we go to.
    • Please remember to share your photos with the club (redriverareasportsmen@gmail.com) and follow and share our social posts.

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Vince Herding Fishing Derby (May 2)
      • Thank you to Rich and Becci for organizing and to all the volunteers who made the event a success.
      • We had great weather and new families. Lots of returning families again.
      • Approximately 120 kids participated.
    • Dick Bell Catfish Tournament (June 6)
      • Flyers are ready. Volunteers will be needed that day.
      • Using up the trophies we have for Dick Bell Tournament and are planning to do something different moving forward.
    • Fall Activities
      • September 12 – Goose Hunt
      • September 19 – Marv Manock Waterfowl Hunt
      • October 3 – Youth Pheasant Hunt
      • October 24 – Smoker / Ladies Hunt

    Internal Club Contests (must be submitted by the end of the March meeting)

    • RRASC Internal Hunting Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Deer/Elk/etc.
      • Turkey Beard
      • Pheasant Tail Feather
      • Waterfowl, # of species harvested 
    • RRASC Internal Fishing (Fresh/Salt Water) Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories 

    Other Business

    • Mooreton Sportsman’s Club
      • Joe Pikarski Trap Range opens Wednesday, June 3
      • They are doing a gun raffle for the 2026 season. Tickets currently available.
    • Head of the Red Trap Club opened May 3
    • ND G&F is asking for volunteers for the ND State Fair July 17-25 in Minot
    • ND G&F Advisory Board Meeting – Recap from Joe K.
      • Bow tags will be bucks only this year. Non-residents can’t hunt on public land for the first 9-days of the season.
      • Late season goose hunting will be all day.
      • Possible NE black bear season.
      • Valley City hatchery can only stock ponds in the area that already have zebra mussels.
      • New fishing regulations, make sure to look at the proclamation.

    Other Upcoming Area Fundraiser Events

    • Wild Game Night – November 21 

    Communication/Correspondence

    • Lisa Pinkney reached out with a donation of her late husband’s fishing equipment. A small group of members is going to go over and look through everything and make recommendations of what she could sell or that we would be interested in.

    For the Good of the Order

    • Thank you Greg for your 20 years of service as president!

    The next meeting is June 18 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

  • First Fish is Special

    By Wayne Beyer

    May 21, 2026 at 3:00 PM – Wahpeton Daily News

    Fishing is a terrific outdoor recreation activity. It was a thrill to fish with 5-year-old grandson Leo, for his first time.

    Experienced grandfathers fishermen who enjoy passing on their passion and knowledge, a tradition my family has experienced for five-generations.

    My first fish was a catfish from the Red River, caught while fishing with Grandpa Beyer near his farm in Brushvale, Minnesota. Daughter Brittany’s first fish was a carp caught on a kernel of corn in a Chahinkapa Park pond after the 1997 Red River flood inundated the park. Daughter Kayla’s first fish was a sunfish caught while ice fishing on Prairie Lake near Pelican Rapids, Minnesota. Ice fishing and peering through an 8-inch hole into the underwater world from a heated shelter is a great way to introduce young people to fishing.

    I also watched two grandsons catch their first fish, including George hooking a largemouth bass in a pond in The Woodlands, Texas, and Jack reeling in a sunfish at Dobmeier Pond near Huntsville, Texas. First fish become treasured lifetime memories.

    An inexpensive Zebco 202 spincast reel and fiberglass rod make good starter equipments. Leo has been practicing casting on the lawn with excited anticipation. We look forward to filling a tackle box with hooks, sinkers and lures.

    Like in farm days, we dug for worms to use a bait. In the Twin Towns, Blazer Express was our go-to bait shop for nightcrawlers and minnows.

    It is important to keep the experience fun and short to hold a child’s interest. Packing a lunch is also a good idea. Throwing rocks and branches into the water is expected. Searching for bugs along the shoreline adds to the adventure. Patience is key.

    Live bait under a bobber works well. The thrill of seeing a bobber disappear beneath the surface never gets old.

    We fished the Fox River that runs through Batavia, Illinois. It is reminiscent of the Red River of the North, with plentiful catfish and smallmouth bass. You never knew what you would pull out of the Red — walleyes, carp, northern pike, suckers, drum or even sturgeon.

    Find an open shoreline fishing area or use a fishing pier. Mooreton Pond and the many lakes in nearby Otter Tail County provide plenty of opportunities.

    Grandfather Rob located a fishing hot spot where a stream flowed into the Fox River. Leo caught a bluegill and smallmouth bass. We fished for nearly two hours, and he said he was “very happy.” We took many pictures to preserve the memories.

    The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club sponsors the Vince Herding Youth Fishing Derby on the first Saturday in May and the Neil Heitkamp Ice Fishing Derby in mid-February. Circle the calendar for these opportunities. Children ages 8 to 16 are encouraged to join the Junior Wildlife Club, which offers fishing events.

    The North Dakota Game and Fish Department and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources both offer First Fish certificates to celebrate an angler’s first fish.

    The following day, Leo asked me, “Are you proud that I caught my first fish, Pops?” My smile answered the question, and I added, “Yes, I am. And it was a bluegill, the state fish of Illinois.”

    A child’s first fish is special.

    Wayne Beyer is the former Wahpeton Parks and Recreation director and Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club member.

  • Annual Vince Herding Spring Fishing Derby Brings Families Together for a Day Outdoors

    Annual Vince Herding Spring Fishing Derby Brings Families Together for a Day Outdoors

    Young anglers and their families gathered at Kidder Recreation Area on Saturday, May 2, for the annual Vince Herding Spring Fishing Derby hosted by the Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club (RRASC).

    A tradition spanning more than 30 years, the derby welcomed youth ages 18 and under for a fun-filled day of fishing, friendly competition, and outdoor adventure along the riverbanks.

    With sunny skies and strong participation, approximately 120 kids and family members took part in this year’s event. The derby continues to honor the legacy of Vince Herding, one of the RRASC’s founding members whose passion for the outdoors and commitment to community helped shape the event into a longstanding local tradition.

    Participants enjoyed lunch, prize giveaways, and the opportunity to compete for trophies awarded to the largest catches in several age groups and fish categories. Every participant also received a thank-you bag and door prize provided by the RRASC.

    Some of our Largest Fish Caught by Age Group

    6 & Under

    • Redhorse Sucker – Laundry G. 1 lb. 15 oz.
    • Smallmouth Bass – Christian U. 1 lb. 8 oz.

    Ages 7–12

    • White Sucker – Miya W. 4 lb. 6 oz.
    • Carp – Evelyn R. 2 lb. 11 oz.

    Ages 13–18

    • Catfish – Caleb S. 6 lb. 11 oz.
    • Northern – Mason K. 3 lb. 3 oz.

    Casting Contest Winners (Closest to the target)

    • 6 & Under – Grantley K. 74”
    • Ages 7–12 – Jules M. 36”
    • Ages 13–18 – Mason K. 27”

    The RRASC credited the event’s success to the volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who helped make the day possible. Their continued support allows the club to provide free youth activities and promote conservation efforts throughout Richland and Wilkin Counties, as well as across North Dakota and Minnesota.

    Special thanks to this year’s sponsors and contributors:

    Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, Minn-Kota Ag Products, Inc., Old National Bank, Wahpeton-Breckenridge Kiwanis, Comstock Construction Inc., Farmers Union Insurance – Kyle DeVries, Wahpeton Optimist Club, Red River Valley & Western Railroad, Scheels, Storo Construction, Hornstein Family Chiropractic, Burchill Construction, Bell Bank, Fastenal, Wahpeton Deli, EconoFoods, Blazer Express, and North Dakota Game & Fish.

    For more information about the RRASC and upcoming events, visit RRASC.net or follow the club on Facebook and Instagram.

  • March 19, 2026 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:30 p.m.

    Attendance: Rich T., Becci T., Josh B., Nate A., Bob R., Curt M., Justin K., Cindie V., Jerry O., Greg B., Brad G., Leroy S., Greg G., Melissa S.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Cindie/Curt) to approve February 19 minutes

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • All award nominations are due by the end of today’s meeting.
    • Owen Skovholt Mooreton Lake Project
      • Approved by ND G&F. 
      • He added rocks on the ice over the winter to create new fish habitats.
      • Bait fish to be transported
    • NDGF Food Plot Seeds available to landowners to make plots on their land.
    • ND Sportfishing Congress Invitation to rejoin – We are going to pass, their mission doesn’t help our area.
    • NDWF Explorer Program for students – program open to kids 16-18 years old. More information on their website at https://gf.nd.gov/education/youth/explorer-program.
    • NDGF Leaving a Legacy article in the latest ND Outdoor magazine. Highlights the new soil health and habitat program introduced by Gov. Kelly Armstrong.
    • W/B Chamber – 2026 membership has been paid
    • Club member Del Hoefs – had heart surgery, currently recovering at home
    • ND G&F Big Three lottery deadline is March 25 

    Treasurer

    • All accounts $128,725 (Checking / Thrivent)
    • Expenses: $150 taxidermy, $25,000 moved to Thrivent acct., $27.89 Econofoods (meetings), $262.38 Smoker, $75.00 Heitkamp derby, $1,228.74 Website and Jr. Wildlife, $92.48 Jr. Wildlife and Heitkamp Derby, $8.00 Office Supplies
    • Income: $2,376 Hides, $200 Herding Fish Derby Donations
    • MSC (Cindie/Brad)

    Board of Directors

    • KFO Night Out on March 21 from 6-9 p.m. at Firehouse Pub

    Grant Requests

    • Hankinson Trap – Looking for money to buy targets and shells for the next season. They are also adding skeet and a 5-stand. $350 MSC (Justin/Cindie)
    • NDSCS Clay Target – Want to attend Jamestown Collegiate State Tournament. Money will cover fees for 10 students to attend. $660 MSC (Rich/Justin)
      • NWTF will add addition $100 for incidentials

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • March 19 – 25 kids built houses. Lots of fun. Hand lots of new/younger kids participate.
    • April – TBD

    Public Relations

    • Website is being redesigned into a WordPress site. If anyone notices content updates or performance issues let Becci know.
    • Please use the new canopy, table cloth and sail flag at all club events and those events we go to.
    • Please remember to share your photos with the club (redriverareasportsmen@gmail.com) and follow and share our social posts.

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Vince Herding Fishing Derby (May 2)
      • Volunteers needed to help the day of.
      • Currently working on prizes.
      • Need to decide on the trophy process for future years.
      • Check into what we have for G&F tackle boxes in storage.

    Internal Club Contests (must be submitted by the end of the March meeting)

    • RRASC Internal Hunting Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Deer/Elk/etc.
      • Turkey Beard
      • Pheasant Tail Feather
      • Waterfowl, # of species harvested 
    • RRASC Internal Fishing (Fresh/Salt Water) Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories 

    Other Business

    • Spring Club Banquet & Awards – April 16 at Hughes Shelter 6 p.m.
      • Award nominations due by end of today’s meeting
      • Speaker will be Luke from MN DNR Fishers
      • Wahpeton Deli catering
      • Members free, guest $15
      • Membership renewals also due
    • May Board Elections – need a nomination for President
    • NWTF also has food plots available for those that need them to plant.

    Other Upcoming Area Events

    • Fish Fry March 20 & 27 at the Mooreton Community Center
    • Rocky Mountain Elk – April 11 at Wahpeton 

    Communication/Correspondence

    The next meeting is May 21 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    Meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

  • Neil Heitkamp Ice Fishing Derby draws record turnout

    By Manisha Reddy Reporter • Feb 23, 2026

    Youth anglers bundled up for a colder-than-last-year event as the Neil Heitkamp Ice Fishing Derby drew a record crowd Feb. 21 at Heitkamp Pond, with organizers crediting community donations and volunteers for keeping the long-running event growing.

    Gary Page, owner of Heitkamp Construction, noted that the event’s purpose is “about getting kids outdoors.” Heitkamp Construction and the Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club helped organize the derby.

    Organizers estimated more than 300 kids and families attended, a jump from about 240 last year. A results sheet from the derby listed 233 youth registrations and said 325 fish were recorded, caught and released during the event.

    Cindie Van Tassel, coordinator with the Sportsmen’s Club, said this year marked the derby’s 21st year. She said cold weather is always a factor but most families came prepared with small portable shelters, warming stations and winter gear.

    Beyond fishing, the derby is designed as an all-ages winter outing. Registration ran from noon to 1 p.m., followed by fishing and weigh-ins through the afternoon. Hot dogs were served, with Van Tassel noting the food line stayed busy.

    Both Page and Van Tassel said every child leaves the derby with something in-hand, including welcome items handed out at registration and, for some, prize items drawn during the day. Prizes were awarded both by random drawings and by derby results in fish categories. First-, second- and third-place winners in each fish category received trophies and gift cards worth $25, $15 and $10.

    In the perch division, Ali Pacada took first place, Logan Mauch placed second and Jackson Krump placed third. In crappie, Arianne Griffin won, followed by Elija Kubela, then Paisley Gerou. In walleye, Elijah Wanek placed first, Caleb Houle took second and Amelia Houle took third.

    Grand prizes were also awarded by age group. Spencer Budke won the age 0-6 boys grand prize, an ice fishing camera. Auvy Loeks won the age 0-6 girls grand prize, an Ugly Stick backpack and fishing chair. Rogan Stroehl won the age 7-11 boys grand prize, an Ugly Stick backpack and fishing chair. Baily Miranowski won the age 7-11 girls grand prize, an ice fishing shelter. Jordan Teberg won the age 12-18 boys grand prize, an ice fishing camera. Bristol Paulson won the age 12-18 girls grand prize, an ice fishing shelter.

    Wanek also landed the day’s largest fish, a 22 1/2-inch walleye, and received a donated pail of fishing items for the catch.

    Page said the biggest challenges each year are weather, collecting prizes and keeping the community engaged, adding that area businesses and supporters do very well in helping donate. Van Tassel echoed Page, calling the derby a community effort powered by volunteers and contributions.

    For those who missed the event, organizers encouraged families to watch for next year’s date on local postings and the groups’ social media pages.

  • February 19, 2026 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:30 p.m. by President Greg Gerou at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    Guest: Liam Intveld was the recipient of the pheasant mount from the fall youth hunt at Chuck’s. He shared a thank you message to the club and all involved. In total the event had 16 participants and 23 birds harvested.

    Attendance: Rich T., Justin K., Bob R., Nate A., Rylan S., Jack M., Cindie V., Greg B., Curt M., Greg G., Melissa S.,
    Becci T.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Melissa/Cindie) to approve January 15 minutes

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Financial support for the trap ranges. Each year we host events at both ranges and usually provide a donation per event. 2 were held at Joe Pikarski and 3 at the Head of the Red. $500 total ($100 per event) – Rich/Ryland
    • Woodie Camp financial support. The event is August 2-8, 2026. $300 – Greg/Ryland
    • The club won some prizes at the NWTF Banquet (Winchester Super X 12 ga., Heritage 22 LR revolver & case, fixed blade knife, folding knife and flashlight set, winter cap, 22” Blackstone with stand)
    • Mooreton Sportsmen’s Club is applying for a NDG G&F Range Grant through the RRASC
    • Thrivent Financial Meeting
      • The decision was to totally fund an endowment of $25,000, modify our current investment to a more conservative plan, open a money market account $25,000 to utilize as a savings account.
      • The endowment will allow us to receive specific donations, land, etc. in the future.

    Treasurer

    • All accounts $132,010 (Checking / Thrivent)
    • Expenses: CC Service Charge $56.18, Econofoods $25.51, Web/Promotional $475.12, Fishing Derby and Fall Hunt Materials $1,147.20, Mooreton Trap $200, Head of the Red $300, Woodie Camp $300
    • MSC (Bob/Curt)

    Board of Directors

    • Twin Town Archery event sponsorship for their local tournament, includes logo signage at event – $1,000 (Cindie/Rich)
    • State NASP request for state tournament – $250 (Cindie/Rich)
    • New reels for our summer rods are needed. Once purchased a night will be planned before May fishing tournament to get the rods set up.

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • February 19 – Air Rifle Instruction. Mandy and TJ instructed the activity, we had 13 kids attend (many were new).
    • March 19 – Building Birdhouses (need to determine style to build)

    Public Relations

    • Website renews in April. Becci is going to reach out to the company to see what other options there are that are less expensive.
    • Please use the new canopy, table cloth and sail flag at all club events and those events we go to.
    • Please remember to share your photos with the club (redriverareasportsmen@gmail.com) and follow and share our social posts.

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Heitkamp Ice Fishing Derby (February 21)
      • Prizes and food are ready. This year they will be setting up a large tent for the registration and prize area. Currently there is good ice thickness.
      • Need volunteers to help drill holes on Friday and during the event Saturday. Parking attendants are lined up.
      • Vern is picking up the minnows on his way into town.
      • Need to collect items from storage and the Community Center that morning. A couple of trucks should be enough.

    Internal Club Contests (must be submitted by the end of the March meeting)

    • RRASC Internal Hunting Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Deer/Elk/etc.
      • Turkey Beard – Justin Kratz 8”
      • Pheasant Tail Feather
      • Waterfowl, # of species harvested 
    • RRASC Internal Fishing (Fresh/Salt Water) Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Cater Gerou 16” Walley and 11” Perch
      • Barret Gerou 10” Perch

    Other Business

    • Annual club award nominations are due by the end of the March 19 meeting. Previous winners and list of awards and descriptions can be found online. https://rrasc.net/member-recognitions
      • Nominations can be made online or by contacting Greg Gerou.
    • Recommended the club look into a trailer. 14-16’ would work great for events and could leave items in it that are used seasonally. Great opportunity to brand for the club (moving billboard).
    • Our current conceal carry instructor we have been using for certificates is moving to Oakes.
    • Spring Banquet will be on April 16.
    • Christmas Party will be on December 4 and needs a coordinator.
    • Doug Leier was asked about the ND G&F standing on the coyote bounty activities in the state. G&F is neutral on the promotion of such activities, but also noted that it is not recommended from a sporting side.

    Other Upcoming Area Events

    • Richland County Pheasants Banquet – March 14 at Wahpeton Community Center
    • Rocky Mountain Elk – April 11 at Wahpeton 

    Communication/Correspondence

    The next meeting is March 19 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

  • January 15, 2026 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:30 p.m. by President Greg Gerou at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    Attendance: Rich T., Melissa S., Patrick B., Bob R., Cindie V., Brad G., Greg B., Curt M., Jerry O., Owen S., Kelly C., Becci T.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Rich/Brad) to approve November 20

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Contacted by Drew Robinson about making a donation to the club towards youth activities.
    • Fred Bucholz would like to donate a model tractor made from a Singer sewing machine to the Smoker.
    • Wes Erdle (ND G&F) has the parts we need to repair the docks at Mooreton Pond. He will bring them in May. If anyone goes to Bismarck before and wants to pick up the parts, let Greg know.
    • ND Wildlife Federation will be holding its October meeting in Wahpeton the same weekend as our Smoker (October 24). They plan to have the members attend our event.
    • ND Wildlife Federation Annual Conference Update
      • They have accounts with funds able to provide more grants.
      • Clay Target grant adjusting to all shooting sports (archery, etc).
      • $2,500 each available to Clay Target teams.
      • $6 million available in various grants including funding to help with purchasing a building.
    • We are looking for a new Christmas Party coordinator for 2026. If interested, let Greg know. Would need someone in place by October. Greg will go ahead and get the shelter booked now so we will have the date.
    • Local scout looking for an Eagle Project. Talk to Greg if you have any ideas.
    • Deer Hide collection for 2026. Going to reach out to Manock Meats to see if they would be interested in having a hide dumpster at their location. If the would like one, we will schedule with T&J Sanitation.
    • The club would like to purchase four 8’ of the heavy duty plastic tables to donate to Chuck for his place to use during the youth hunts.
    • Building Committee – We will review our tentative plans with account and connect with legal counsel in 2026 to see what our next steps should be.

    Treasurer

    • Financial Review of the 2026 proposed budget – MSC (Pat/Rich)
    • Financial Review of the proposed investment plan
      • Transfer funds to Thrivent to get investment to endowment level (needs a minimum of $25,000)
      • Transfer money into CDs that we can withdraw for cash for the Smoker (short term)
      • Check into Thrivent savings accounts and other long term investment options
      • Next step to meet with Tom at Thrivent
    • All accounts $136,446 (Checking / Thrivent)
    • Expenses: $389.70 Christmas Party, $88 PO Box, $80 Membership NWF, $51.46 Jr Wildlife, $3,206.25 Heitkamp Derby, $25 Dick Bell Memorial, $122.58 Smoker, $624.84 Smoker, $25.01 Beverages, $180 Chamber Dues, $737 Insurance, $141.98 Miscellaneous, $75.73 Miscellaneous
    • Deposits: $2,500 Donation, $30 Memberships, $100 Donation, $35 Smoker, $20 Memberships
    • MSC (Curt/Cindie)

    Board of Directors

    • It was brought forward wondering if the club would be interested in working with a couple of area groups for the paid bounty on turned in coyotes. Currently receive $10 per coyote with a chance into a gun drawing. Would want to make sure ND G&F approves of these types of promotions before we make any decisions.
    • Camp Wilderness request to help replace their 22 cal. rifles (20 total).
      • Cost is $735 each with site upgrade and installation ($600 each value – Savage Mark II Syn SS with Williams site added by a gun smith)
      • Motion for $1,000 donation (Brad/Cindie) – Approved
      • Ask about having club name/recognition on guns or at shooting range
    • Waterfowl Brigade Camp in Washburn for ages 13-15 – application deadline is March 15.

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • January 15 – Learn about Ice Fishing and Making Decoys by Lonnie Wurst. 13 kids participated and we will be reimbursing him for materials.
    • February 19 – Air Rifle Instruction
    • March 19 – Building Birdhouses

    Public Relations

    • Please use the new canopy, table cloth and sail flag at all club events and those events we go to.
    • Please remember to share your photos with the club (redriverareasportsmen@gmail.com) and follow and share our social posts.

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Heitkamp Ice Fishing Derby (February 21)
      • Posters available to hang up.
      • Volunteers needed – you can contact Cindie to help.
      • Purchased 5 gal. pails and seats. We will order logo stickers for the club to add to them.
      • Work night to go though rods on January 28 at 5:30 p.m. at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    Internal Club Contests (must be submitted by the end of the March meeting)

    • RRASC Internal Hunting Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Deer/Elk/etc.
      • Turkey Beard
      • Pheasant Tail Feather
      • Waterfowl, # of species harvested 
    • RRASC Internal Fishing (Fresh/Salt Water) Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories 

    Other Business

    • Greg will be stepping down as President during the next elections in May. He has been club president for 20 years. Anyone interested in what it entails can reach out to him.
    • The new Eastern ND Wildlife Federation conservation specialist is Callie Lee.
    • The 2025 annual NWTF report is available.
    • $1,000 to support the Richland Renegade Toms (Cindie/Jerry)

    Other Upcoming Area Events

    • Richland Renegade Toms 20th Annual Banquet – February 6 – Doors open at 5:30 p.m., Meal at 7 p.m.
      • Club doing a $500 sponsorship (includes being the gun sponsor for the Jakes table)
      • Includes two event tickets – received by Cindie and Bob

    Communication/Correspondence

    • Thank you from Fergus Falls F&G for the support of the Woodie Camp.

    The next meeting is February 19 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

  • A tribute to Dick Bell

    BY WAYNE BEYER

    Dick Bell was an outstanding and active member of the Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club for 25 years, serving as Vice-President and being honored with the Sportsman of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award and Lifetime Membership Award. He went far beyond paying dues status and showed up for everything.

    He was a mentor to many young hunters and fishermen who affectionately called him “Grandpa.”

    It all started when the Sportsmen’s Club and 4-H co-sponsored fishing instruction on Mooreton Pond, where he connected with a young boy and taught him how to cast from shore for trout and smallmouth bass. An outdoor role model for his children and grandchildren, Dick soon expanded his influence.

    He was the figure responsible for the Dick Bell Catfish Tournament held during Blue Goose Days, so it was named after him.

    Dick was recognized as “Sportsman of the Year” by the North Dakota Wildlife Federation and attended annual conferences in Bismarck for many years. The Wahpeton-Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce honored him with the “Extra Mile Award.”

    Awards aside, his greatest gift was connecting with people, especially youth experiencing the outdoors.

    Dick holds a special place in my memories for mentoring my daughter Kayla during a spear-fishing excursion to Grass Lake near Lidgerwood. His patience, humor and appreciation for the little things, like observing the underwater world, will never be forgotten.

    Dick often volunteered for the Junior Wildlife Club. Some of his favorite times were spent hunkering in the cattails during the Youth Waterfowl Hunt, teaching girls and boys about duck calling, waiting patiently for the right shooting times and soaking in the early-morning experience, appreciating sunrises and connecting with nature.

    Over the years, Dick built meaningful relationships with North Dakota Game and Fish (as a hunter education instructor), the ND Health Department (water quality testing on Mooreton Pond), Boy Scouts (Outdoors Day at Camp Wilderness near Park Rapids, Minnesota), ND Firefighters (another catfish tournament), Wyndmere Public School (archery program), the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (youth games), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (noxious weed control), the Richland County After-School Program (fishing mentor) and the North American Hunting Club (lifetime member).

    He believed deeply in the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, particularly that science is the proper tool for wildlife policy. Dick regularly consulted with ND Game and Fish biologists on matters such as coyote bounties and was so passionate he earned the nickname “Wile E. Coyote.” It was great fun being the “Roadrunner.”

    Dick was a sharpshooter growing up in South Dakota, and he went on to teach many young people how to accurately shoot rifles, shotguns and BB guns.

    He patiently showed young fishermen how to tie a clinch knot, thread a nightcrawler onto a hook, make a spinner and accurately cast into a likely catfish hole near a fallen tree.

    In recent years, despite challenging health, his positive attitude was an inspiration. Self-pity was not in his dictionary.

    There is no finer outdoor mentor you could want your child to learn from. Sympathy and prayers are offered to the family and friends of Dick Bell, who left a lasting mark on the Dakota outdoors.

    Wayne Beyer is the former Wahpeton Parks and Recreation director.

Red River Area Sportsmen's Club

A non-profit sportsmen’s club introducing kids to the outdoors while supporting local conservation and habitat stewardship.