This Weeks Show

Episode 4

Jumbo Bluegills of the North

Show Date: January 24, 2026

Location: Longville, Minnesota

Guide: Ryley Hansen [507-217-1276 | crazyloonguideservice.com]

Winter has fully settled into northern Minnesota, and with miles of ice to explore, we couldn’t ask for a better guide than Ryley Hansen. Ryley lives for ice fishing and is well known for his conservation-minded approach, focusing on quality fish and unforgettable experiences rather than filling buckets. His specialty is targeting jumbo panfish, giving anglers the chance to hook into true trophy-class bluegills beneath the ice.

Joining us on the ice is Pete Maina, and we also had the opportunity to catch up with our longtime friend Rusty Lilyquist. Rusty was recovering from major surgery and wasn’t able to join us on the ice this time, but we’re wishing him a strong and healthy recovery and look forward to seeing him back out soon.

Our primary focus on this trip is giant bluegills, and jigging for fish that could be the biggest of your life is hard to beat. We’re using ACME tungsten jigs, along with Kastmasters and MoonShine spoons, to trigger aggressive bites. As the afternoon wears on and the wind picks up, we shift gears and set up for an evening walleye bite. Right as the sun dips toward the horizon, the Beaver Dam tip-up flags start flying, putting a perfect finishing touch on a memorable day on the ice.