Red River Area Sportsmen's Club

Author: Rebecca Truesdell

  • 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.

  • November 20, 2025 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:30 p.m.

    Attendance: Rich T., Curt M., Brad G., LeRoy S., Kelly T., Bob R., Cindie V., Kevin M., Owen S., Jack M., Nate A., Josh B., Greg G., Justin K., Greg B., Becci T.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Brad/Jack) to approve October 16, 2025

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Mooreton dock repairs needed for next summer – new cables, metal repair, new tires. ND G&F will reimburse for repairs.
    • Boy Scout in need of a project idea for their Eagle Scout project.
    • Dick Bell passed away. Funeral is on November 24 in Wyndmere. He was a long-term club member. Greg B. will submit for the Tewaukon Tree.

    Treasurer

    • All accounts $139,090 (Checking / Thrivent / Cash in Safe)
    • Expenses: $667.40 Smoker, $199.88 Ladies Hunt, $179.69 Smoker Econofoods, $250 Smoker Bartenders, $67.09 Smoker Manock Meats, $655 Smoker Fairmount Locker, $311.74 Smoker, $47.94 Smoker, $26.15 Smoker, $75 Smoker Boy Scouts, $50 Smoker Wahpeton Clay Target, $100 Smoker NDSCS Clay Target, $1,355 Econofoods, $652.86 Smoker Daily News, $525 Deer Processing
    • Deposits: $48,826 Smoker, $7,140 Smoker
    • MSC (Curt/Rich)

    Board of Directors

    • Cindie
      • MN DNR Round Table is on January 9 and she will attend for the club.

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • November is Horse Care – held at Truax River Ranch, 6 kids participated
    • January 15 – Learn about Ice Fishing and Making Decoys

    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.

    Smoker

    • Thank you to everyone who helped before, during and after!
    • Thank you to the committee for all their hard work!
    • Very good turnout and had good profits this year.
    • Planning on increasing ticket numbers on walking raffles next year to make sure we can cover more people.
    • Thinking about having a 2nd gun registration person help out.
    • Consideration to move to the 4th weekend next year – October 24 (unanimously approved) Will check with Park & Rec for availability.

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Ladies Rooster Round-up – October 18 Recap
      • Lots of birds were shot, event was well-organized and the girls had a lot of fun
    • Band of Brothers was held on October 24-26

    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. – Ryker Stroehl (youth – Buck)
      • Turkey Beard – Joe Keller 6-⅞”
      • Pheasant Tail Feather – Chuck Haus 26.75” / Joe Keller 24-3/16”
      • Waterfowl, # of species harvested 
    • RRASC Internal Fishing (Fresh/Salt Water) Contests (April – March) – Youth & Adult categories
      • Chuck Haus – 12.5” perch

    Other Business

    • Club Christmas Party – December 5 at Hughes Shelter
      Social at 6 pm / Meal at 6:30 pm
      RSVP to Cindie 218-643-4374 by November 26
      Vote to have it catered instead of doing potluck. MSC (Becci/Justin)
    • We need to update our call list for the police/sheriff department when there is a deer kill.
    • Reminder to call RAP if you see people hunting land that they shouldn’t be on.
    • Abby Carlson’s grandmother passed away this week.

    Other Upcoming Area Events

    • Chahinkapa Zoo Wild Game Night – November 21
    • Richland Wildlife Club Fundraiser – December 6 – Doors open at 5 pm, Meat at 6 pm
    • ND Wildlife Federation Annual Meeting – January 9-10 in Fargo
      • Friday Social 6 p.m. / Saturday Meetings 8 a.m., Banquet Following that evening
      • Register to attend online at https://www.northdakotawildlife.org/annual-meeting
      • They have invited the ND Gaming Commission to attend and speak to the group about state gaming rules and here about concerns about how difficult it has become to raise money as non-profits.
    • Richland Renegade Toms Banquet – February 6 – Doors open at 5:30 p.m., Meal at 7 p.m.
      • 20th Annual Banquet
      • They are looking for new club membership

    Communication/Correspondence

    • Thank you from Bernstein Foundation for their 5K

    The next meeting is January 15 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

    Meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m.

  • Community rallies for 26th Annual Sportsmen’s Smoker

    The 36th annual Sportsmen's Smoker was held on Oct. 18 at the Wahpeton Community Center.
    The 36th annual Sportsmen’s Smoker was held on Oct. 18 at the Wahpeton Community Center.

     By Shoba Dasari – October 20, 2025 Wahpeton Daily News

    The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club’s 36th Annual Sportsmen’s Smoker proved once again why it remains one of Wahpeton’s most anticipated fall traditions.

    Families had a great night at the event. Pictured are Rhonda Edwardson, Ashley Komrosky, Brandon Edwardson and Fischer Komrosky.
    Families had a great night at the event. Pictured are Rhonda Edwardson, Ashley Komrosky, Brandon Edwardson and Fischer Komrosky.

    Held Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Wahpeton Community Center, the event drew a large and enthusiastic crowd eager to support local outdoor programs through raffles, games, and a hearty wild game meal.

    “The 2025 Smoker was very successful,” said Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club President Greg Gerou. “Guests were enthusiastic and eager to participate in the games and raffles. Ticket sales for the meat raffles went quickly, and many of the games and gun boards sold out in record time.”

    As the evening unfolded, volunteers worked efficiently to move through dozens of raffles and prize drawings, allowing the event to wrap up slightly ahead of schedule.

    Volunteers Jeremiah Dampie, on left, and Casey Erovick served the food.
    Volunteers Jeremiah Dampie, on left, and Casey Erovick served the food.

    Proceeds from the smoker help fund the club’s annual youth fishing and hunting events, as well as conservation and access projects across Richland County.

    “We are grateful for the support and encouragement from everyone that attended,” Gerou said. “The success of this event is what keeps our programs going year after year.”

    Cheryll Schillinger looks over the raffle items.
    Cheryll Schillinger looks over the raffle items.

    The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club thanked its many volunteers, donors, and community partners who made the event possible, emphasizing that the continued success of the smoker ensures future opportunities for youth and conservation efforts across the region.

  • October 16, 2025 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:32 p.m.

    Attendance: Justin K., Melissa S., Denise H., Greg G., Paul S., LeRoy S., Cindie V., Greg B., Brad G., Bob R., Curt M., TJ T., Chuck H., Kelly T., Jack M., Josh B., Carter F., Nate A., Rylan S., Rich T., Pat B., Kathy L., Becci T.

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Curt/Brad G.) to approve September 18, 2025

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Volunteers need to sign an event report for the waterfowl hunt. A sheet was passed around for signatures of those in attendance.
    • Letter of interest has been sent to the Senior Citizens Center on September 29, 2025 in the case of the new community center being built.
      • Need to develop plans for building use and income generation
    • NDWF is hiring Eastern North Dakota Conservation Specialist
    • Membership with the ND Sportfishing Congress – are we interested. This affects tournaments and guide services up in the Devils Lake area. Membership is $100 per year if we choose to continue.
    • Grants are now open with the Richland/Wilkin Grand Foundation.
    • Dick Bell is currently at St. Catherines in Hankinson.

    Treasurer

    • All accounts $95, 292 (Checking $76, 711 / Thrivent $11,521 / Cash in Safe)
    • Expenses: $1,015 Insurance, $155 Smoker Coolers, $155 Debit Card, $1,250 Raffle Gift Cards, $150.93 Econo, $44.67 Econo, $598.50 Ladies Hunt, $4,000 Pheasants, $3,722 Smoker
    • Deposits: $2,980 Smoker, $7,690 Smoker, $1,500 Smoker, $1,800 Blue Raffle, $600 Orange Raffle, $2,005 Orange Raffle, $3,700 Blue Raffle, $2,600 Orange Raffle, $1,181 Smoker, $500 Ladies Hunt (ND Wildlife Fed)
    • MSC (Justin/Melissa)

    Secretary

    • Received a link on the ND Game &  Fish special allocation lottery. Will send to Greg for club submission.

    Board of Directors

    • Cindie
      • One of the youth goose hunter’s grandma is making a donation to the club.
      • Dee Nelson with Breck schools is looking for someone to help teach outdoor skills after school. 6 week program, 1 hour each time. Will be paid $40/hour.

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • Maplewood – 10 kids participated. The park’s bus did not work properly so volunteers drove the kids.
    • Indoor Archery – 15 kids participated.
    • November is Horse Care and is already full.

    Public Relations

    • Rich and Becci had a float in the NDSCS Homecoming Parade.
    • Cindie will have a booth at Zoo Boo on October 25.
    • 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

    • Thank you for all the help so far.
    • This year getting our final permit was difficult. Not allowed to play plinko, dice or card games.
      • Suggestion is to check when the state will be have a gaming meeting that we can attend.
      • Greg is talking to NDWF about a larger group discussion related to non-profit fundraising
    • Volunteers should wear their RRASC shirts. Let Becci know if you do not have one.
    • We are good on the meat and veggies for the meal.
    • Tickets are due Friday afternoon.
    • Moving the roasters Saturday at 9 am to Community Center from St. Johns

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Youth Waterfowl Hunt – 9 hunters this year. Will be sending a thank you to Tewaukon.
    • Youth Pheasant Hunt – 15 hunters out at Chuck’s place.
    • Ladies Rooster Round-up – October 18
    • Band of Brothers – October 24-26

    Other Business

    • MN Permit to Carry class coming up on October 25
    • Clint and Chuck are giving away a gun to the youth pheasant hunts
    • Mark and Bellmore are also giving a gun away to the youth pheasant hunts
    • We have a donation for the smoker that is intended to go to youth so we will draw from all the hunts (goose, waterfowl and pheasant)

    Other Upcoming Area Events

    • Chahinkapa Zoo Wild Game Night – November 21

    Communication/Correspondence

    • Reminder to pay your dues – online, by mail or attend a meeting.

    Next meeting November 20 at Hughes Shelter.
    Meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.

  • RRASC prepares for 36th annual Sportsmen’s Smoker

    Shoba Dasari – October 11, 2025 Wahpeton Daily News

    The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club’s 36th Annual Sportsmen’s Smoker is on Saturday, Oct. 18.
    The Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club’s 36th Annual Sportsmen’s Smoker is on Saturday, Oct. 18.

    For more than three decades, the Red River Area Sportsmen’s Club has gathered friends, families and outdoor enthusiasts together for one of the community’s most anticipated fall traditions — the Sportsmen’s Smoker.

    This year marks the 36th annual event, set for Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Wahpeton Community Center. Doors open at 4 p.m. and the evening will feature raffles, games, silent auction items, and a meal of homemade wild game chili and stew, free while supplies last.

    Club president Greg Gerou said the smoker began simply as a fundraiser to support the club’s early projects. What started with about 100 attendees has grown into a night hundreds look forward to each fall.

    “It evolved into what we have today,” Gerou said. “The number of people that look forward to this is just amazing.”

    Over the years, the event has adapted to state rules on gaming, creating some unique twists.

    The impact of the event stretches well beyond one evening. Proceeds fund three youth fishing events each summer and three youth hunting events in the fall, along with a ladies-only pheasant hunt and a hunt for disabled veterans.

    “We’ve partnered with landowners near Hankinson for the pheasant hunt, and it’s just phenomenal,” Gerou said. “The kids have a great time, and that’s really what we’re trying to do — get the kids interested. If it catches on, it’s a lifetime thing.”

    The club also works on projects that benefit the broader community. In recent years, funds have supported fishing access ramps, partnerships with the DNR and Game & Fish, and improvements at Mooreton Pond and other local lakes in Richland County.

    Gerou said the event takes months of planning, beginning each July, and about 30 volunteers pitch in on the day of the smoker. The chili and stew are prepared by members themselves under the direction of Curt Mund, with donated venison, and once even moose meat, forming the base.

    “It was the best chili we ever had,” Gerou laughed, recalling the moose harvest that provided an extra-special recipe.

    This year’s smoker will include around 30 firearms among the raffle prizes, along with numerous other items donated by businesses and community supporters.

    Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased from club members or by calling at 701-640-5136 or 701-403-9010. Advance ticket buyers will also be entered into additional cash drawings.

    “This is our one and only fundraiser,” Gerou said. “Everything else we do depends on how well we do at the smoker. If it’s a really good year, we can take on a couple extra projects. Even an average year still supports a lot.”

    The event is open to the public, with anyone 18 and older welcome, or under 18 if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

    “If you want something good to eat and a fun night out, come on down,” Gerou said. “We’ve got raffles and games for just about everybody.”

  • September 18, 2025 Minutes

    Call to order at 7:30 p.m.

    Attendance: Patrick B., Greg G., Kelly C., Kevin M., Mark A., Bob R., LeRoy S., Brad G., Greg B., Justin K., Curtis J., Cindie V., Kathy L., Dylan S., Nate A., Jack M., Cart F., Rich T., Josh B., Becci T.

    Welcome Guests (Curtis Jepson – Wheaton, MN Station Warden) and New Members (Riley, Nate, Jack and Carter)

    Minutes: (No changes noted.) MSC (Brad G./Curt) to approve September 18, 2025

    Board of Directors Reports

    President

    • Dick Bell recently had a fall with some injuries, during treatment they found a mass on his lung. Currently at St. Gerads Case Center in Hankinson. 
    • There is a local Boy Scout looking for an Eagle Scout Project. If anyone has ideas, let Greg G. know.
    • The club has tubs of t-shirts that need organizing. Something will be scheduled soon.

    Treasurer

    • $82,866 total between all accounts – MSC (Kelly/Cindie)
    • Expenses: $32.19 Jr. Wildlife (Cindie), $205 Tripes/Supplies (Greg), $300 Glow 5k donation, $592.35 Hunts/Various Expenses (Cindie), $11,643.52 Smoker/Guns/Office Supplies/Website (Becci), $91.35 Hunt Mileage, $98.91 Hunt Mileage, $1,592 Smoker (Justin)
    • Deposits: Smoker donations and ticket sales to be deposited

    Board of Directors

    • Rich – Berts Bar was hoping to have the club as the recipient of a few of their digital pull tab machines, but they cannot have them go to two different organizations. Suggestion is to have weekly meat raffles as another fundraising opportunity for the club. Agreed to have this looked into more.

    General Committee Reports
    Jr. Wildlife Club

    • Next week is Maplewood State Park – Cindie will be gone. Justin, Melissa and Rich will be attending. If the bus is unavailable, the volunteers will drive the kids.
    • Upcoming: October 23 Archery, November 20 Horse Care

    Public Relations

    • Participated in the NDSCS Block Party – had quite a few people stop by and did sell a few raffle tickets.
    • Upcoming Community Events – NDSCS Homecoming October 4, Zoo Boo October 25
    • 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

    • Tickets and Posters are available – everything due at the next meeting.
    • Lots of volunteers are needed for Friday and Saturday of the event for setup and games. Anyone interested in running the kitchen crew, reach out to Rich.
    • Working with KBMW on digital marketing for the smoker.
    • Community Center & St Johns have been confirmed.
    • Guns are all purchased.
    • We will need more wild game meat.
    • Greg is scheduling the potato pickup from Chuck.
    • Bob may know of a place to get onions.
    • We will need carrots, celery and peppers.
    • Lots of volunteers needed – talk to Rich or Becci.

    Seasonal Committee Reports

    • Cindie has water bottles and vests for the hunts.
    • MN Youth Goose Hunt – Good weather, didn’t see a lot of birds, kids had fun. Thank you to the hunt guides.
    • Youth Waterfowl Hunt – September 19 & 20
      • 9 kids signed up.
      • Head of the Red Trap on Friday, Hunting at Tewaukon  on Saturday.
      • Currently have 8 mentors and a couple of dogs.
      • Breakfast food and volunteers are lined up. Greg getting syrup.
      • Ducks may be scarce this year.
    • Youth Pheasant Hunt – October 3 & 4
      • 12 kids signed up so far.
      • Mooreton Trap Club on Friday, Hunting at Chuck’s on Saturday.
      • Currently have 10 mentors and 7 dogs lined up.
      • Ordering Subway for Friday food.
      • NWTF has door prizes.
      • Waiver sheets for hunters need to be sent out to participants.
    • Ladies Rooster Round-up – October 18
      • Hunt is full and the will be at the smoker that night.
      • Coordinate with Abby to have them help with something at the smoker.
    • Band of Brothers – October 24-26

    Internal Club Contests

    • Carter Gerou – Sunfish 9”

    Other Business

    • Gift to landowners from the Goose Hunt – Comp tickets to the Smoker and a $50 gift card to local restaurant.
    • Head of the Red Trap is having Glow Trap Shooting September 18 & 19.
    • ND Conceal to Carry – October 12 (Big John’s Conceal to Carry)
    • ND Wildlife Federation is meeting at the Community Center on September 24 at 6pm. Greg will be attending and getting everything set up at 5pm.
    • If the new rec center is built, the existing senior center would be relocated. Their current building would be available. Greg is interested in the club sending them a request that we would be interested in it. Agreed to send some communication so they will know of our interest.

    Other Upcoming Area Events

    • September 27 – Twist of Fate Hunt with Live and Silent Auction that evening
    • Chahinkapa Zoo Wild Game Night – November 21

    Communication/Correspondence

    • Thank you from the MN Field Goose Hunts.

    Next meeting October 16 at the Wahpeton Community Center.
    Meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.

Red River Area Sportsmen's Club

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