Meet Mike Ernst

When it comes to what Mike enjoys about his life the most, the outdoors definitely would be the first answer from anyone who knows him at least a little.  Of course not to forget about family and friends, his passion for nature is something that words cannot explain.  Hunting, Fishing, Outdoor Photography, Camping, etc.., the list could go forever as long as it includes being part of Gods beautiful creation. 

As soon as he could walk, his father had him in the boat trying to pull in those monster little panfish with his snoopy rod.  He wanted to tag along with every fishing or hunting trip his father took.  Sooner than later he could go out on his own and fished and hunted every time he could.  He eventually got a job at the In Towne Marina on Lake Waconia.  He worked there for 9 years washing boats, building docks, and what he enjoyed the most, helping people get on some good fishing!  He just couldn't get enough of having customers come back in after taking his advice and show them their catch!!  Being on the water everyday of work and then fishing in his free time meant he was doing what he loved every day of the summers. 

Mike fished many local club tournaments, mainly he fished bass tournaments on Lake Waconia.  Bass and Walleye was the main target that he pursued growing up.  One day at the marina, Mike met Travis and they started fishing together and Travis introduced Mike into Muskie fishing.  Now he loves the sport as much as Travis and goes crazy for the giant toothy critters.  He loves to watch someone who has never caught a muskie before catch there first with him.  It is such an accomplishment for him to share the experience with others.  He loves to take new people duck hunting, fishing, or anywhere in the woods or on the lake.  Watching the new people get hooked on the outdoors is just as good as doing it himself. 

Now Mike is 27 years old and still fishes and hunts every moment he is awake.  And most of the winter when he is sleeping!!  Mike travels to many many lakes across the state throughout the year trying to fool many different species.  He is currently pursueing his dream by doing the best he can with outdoor photography and is taking people out fishing whenever he can!  If anybody is interested in booking an icefishing trip with Mike or just has any questions in general you can contact him by email - mike@trophyencounters.com - or cell -  612-306-4641 .  He looks forward to seeing all you in the field, on the water, or on the ice!!