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2026 Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza

Kavanaughs Lakeside Living

In the early 1990’s a core group of Brainerd Jaycee members came up with an idea to help raise money for the the Camp Confidence Learning Center and numerous other local charities as well as showcasing the Brainerd Lakes Area and of course, its great fishing! What an idea it was and now 36 years later it has grown into the largest ice fishing tournament in the world and has world wide exposure on numerous networks, including the NBC Today Show. Today the Ice Fishing extravaganza generates over $1 million in area revenue and raises over $150,000 for more than 45 local charities. Since its inception 36-years ago it has donated over $3 million to numerous area organizations. It is without question, a very unique experience as you share the ice with more than 10,000 anglers fishing for hundreds of valuable prizes on frozen Gull Lake in the heart of the Brainerd Area. Purchasing that $50 ticket can mean some great prizes that may even include a brand new truck from the Mills Auto Group as well as some great Polaris items and much, much more. This year the contest will be held on Hole in the Day Bay on Gull Lake on Saturday, January 31, 2026 with a 12-3:00 pm event time. It is a great event for both the avid and rookie fisherman and if you are interested make sure to go to the website www.icefishing.org to get information and find where you might purchase a ticket for the event. Just a few of the sponsors include Mills Automotive Group, Fleet Farm, Ice Castle Fish Houses, Strike Master Ice Augers, Aqua View, Mike’s Tree Service and many more. Make a weekend of it and come on up and enjoy a stay with us at Kavanaugh’s Resort and take advantage of our 20% Off Winter and enjoy a wonderful and special weekend at a legendary event! Make this the year to tell everyone that you have fished the largest ice fishing tournament in the world!!!