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      For the love of MN based companies     

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NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 03:35PM  
I have recently started to strictly purchase from Minnesota based gear/clothing companies if at all possible. I will list the ones that I am familiar with, but I'd love to hear from anyone that might know of any not listed! The companies products don't need to be Minnesota made necessarily, the company just needs to be located here. Thanks!

Duluth Pack
Sportsman's guide
Frost River
Cooke Custom Sewing
Empire wool and Canvas
Clam Outdoors
Lester River Bushcraft
Northstar Canoe
Storm Creek
Wenonah canoe
Vasque/Red wing
Sanborn canoe
Minnetonka Moc.
Askov/Finlayson
Steger
Northern Toboggan
Wintergreen Northern wear
Tradition Creek
Spring Creek Manufacturing
Gander Outdoors
Superior Fleece
Onyx Outdoors
Rapala
North star Fur and trade

Anyone else?
 
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02/16/2021 04:11PM  
Northland Fishing Tackle - Bemidji, MN
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 04:16PM  
Thanks bobbernumber3! I will have to look them up!
 
TreeBear
distinguished member(533)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 04:18PM  
Kondos Outdoors out of Ely (about to become Portage North and Sundog)
Merrimack Canoes (part of Sanborn)
Henry's Shoe Repair (makes a lot of cool gloves/mittens/choppers/belts among other things)
Alumicraft
Midwest Mountaineering
Fisher Maps
True North Maps (I am pretty sure is Minnesota based)
McKenzie Maps

Plus dozens of different retailers from gear exchange and consignment shops, outfitters, and everything in between. It's amazing how many incredible outdoor companies are in this state.
 
JimmyJustice
distinguished member(735)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 04:18PM  
Danlure Jigs - Waseca MN
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 04:21PM  
JimmyJustice: "Danlure Jigs - Waseca MN"


Thanks JJ!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 04:31PM  
It's crazy how many options we have! That's why I recently decided to strictly purchase Minnesota-based from now on. While there are many amazing products from all over, there is no real need to look elsewhere.
 
02/16/2021 05:46PM  
Superior Gear
 
02/16/2021 05:53PM  
In case you are looking for a pair of Cement overshoes :-) on your next paddling trip try these two Minnesota companies, from the same small town and probabaly the largest cement truck manufacturers in the world.

McNeilus Truck and MFG

Con-tech, Concrete Technologies.
 
IndyCanoe
distinguished member (163)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 07:04PM  
Enlightened Equipment is in Winona, MN

Enlightened Equipment
 
billconner
distinguished member(8600)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
02/16/2021 07:04PM  
Rutabaga - assuming you're in the group that believes Madison is in MN. :)
 
Sandman2009
distinguished member (348)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 07:08PM  
The Boundary Waters Business Coalition


Click on the menu and then click on business supporters list. While not all are gear related, and some have been mentioned before, this is a pretty good list.
 
02/16/2021 07:11PM  
Voyageur Maps
Chosen Valley Canoe Accesories (CVCA)
Paddle North
Grey Duck Paddleboards
The BDB Company
Strikemaster



 
02/16/2021 07:40PM  
Isn't Granite Gear out of Two Harbors?
 
02/16/2021 07:46PM  
MN_Lindsey: "Isn't Granite Gear out of Two Harbors?"


Yep!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 07:50PM  
fadersup: "Superior Gear"

Forgot about them. Didn’t realize they are out of Osseo though. Thought they were up towards Duluth.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 07:52PM  
LindenTree: "In case you are looking for a pair of Cement overshoes :-) on your next paddling trip try these two Minnesota companies, from the same small town and probabaly the largest cement truck manufacturers in the world.


McNeilus Truck and MFG


Con-tech, Concrete Technologies. "


Lol. had never heard of them before today. Sounds like a major operation.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 07:56PM  
IndyCanoe: "Enlightened Equipment is in Winona, MN


Enlightened Equipment "


Thanks for sharing Indy. Gonna have to do some research on this company. Very interesting .
 
gymcoachdon
distinguished member(599)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 07:59PM  
Andersen Forge? I believe this knife maker is located in MN, and is a frequent contributor to threads in this forum. Some day I may have the extra cash to splurge on a hand made knife, hope it will be from Karl!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 07:59PM  
billconner: "Rutabaga - assuming you're in the group that believes Madison is in MN. :)"


Great shop:)
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:13PM  
Sandman2009: " The Boundary Waters Business Coalition



Click on the menu and then click on business supporters list. While not all are gear related, and some have been mentioned before, this is a pretty good list."


Awesome resource! Thanks for sharing.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:21PM  
GopherAdventure: "Voyageur Maps
Chosen Valley Canoe Accesories (CVCA)
Paddle North
Grey Duck Paddleboards
The BDB Company
Strikemaster "

Hmmm, I wonder if cvca produces the product sold on wenonah’s site. Looks exactly the same if it isn’t. Tried looking up the BDB company with no luck. Who are they?
 
02/16/2021 08:25PM  
Country Ways www.snowshoe.com
Sven-saw
Littlbug (twig stoves)
3M (Ultrathon insect repellant, 5200 Marine adhesive (shoe repair), medical tapes etc., probably lots of other things...)
Surly bikes (if we're not limited to boundary waters gear)
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:27PM  
gymcoachdon: "Andersen Forge? I believe this knife maker is located in MN, and is a frequent contributor to threads in this forum. Some day I may have the extra cash to splurge on a hand made knife, hope it will be from Karl!"


Ah yes, just learned of them recently when Karl posted a comment on my video I posted here. They are beautiful looking knives!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:31PM  
MN_Lindsey: "Isn't Granite Gear out of Two Harbors?"


Ope, forgot to list them. Thanks for adding them to the list!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:42PM  
brulu: "Country Ways (www.snowshoe.com)
Sven-saw
Littlbug (twig stoves)
3M (Ultrathon insect repellant, 5200 Marine adhesive (shoe repair), medical tapes etc., probably lots of other things...)
Surly bikes (if we're not limited to canoe camping gear)
"


Wow, not sure how I’ve never heard of the Sven saw, but gosh that thing is slick! Thanks for sharing.
 
02/16/2021 08:44PM  
Dam Goods & Gear, Rice Lake/Duluth for paddles, rods, snowshoes and more: https://www.damgoodsandgear.com/
 
ayudell
distinguished member (156)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:49PM  
Things that are loud:
Mercury marine
Polaris industries
Lund boats
Crestliner

 
JWilder
distinguished member (411)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:49PM  
August Schell Brewing Company.

Sorry, I couldn't help myself ;)

JW
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 08:54PM  
QuietSolo: "Dam Goods & Gear, Rice Lake/Duluth for paddles, rods, snowshoes and more: https://www.damgoodsandgear.com/
"


Just checked them out. Seems like they make some really nice gear!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 09:01PM  
JWilder: "August Schell Brewing Company.


Sorry, I couldn't help myself ;)


JW"


Lol, no need to apologize when spreading some Minnesota love!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 09:02PM  
ayudell: "Things that are loud:
Mercury marine
Polaris industries
Lund boats
Crestliner "

Thanks for sharing, ayudell! Pretty impressive all these belong to Minnesota.
 
JWilder
distinguished member (411)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 09:08PM  
Hormel Foods, maker of Spam.

Some here may have a Spam single (or two) in their food pack...
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 09:17PM  
JWilder: "Hormel Foods, maker of Spam.

Some here may have a Spam single (or two) in their food pack..."

Love their museum down in Austin!
 
Northwoodsman
distinguished member(2057)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 09:20PM  
Maybe I missed them but:
Cache Lake (freeze dried foods) - Bemidji
Camp Chow (freeze dried foods) - Grand Marais (Gunflint Trail)
 
JWilder
distinguished member (411)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 09:25PM  
Northwoodsman: "Maybe I missed them but:
Cache Lake (freeze dried foods) - Bemidji
Camp Chow (freeze dried foods) - Grand Marais (Gunflint Trail)"


The last two years I have re-fueled with Packet Gormet. I am inspired to order a few and try them out.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 09:26PM  
Northwoodsman: "Maybe I missed them but:
Cache Lake (freeze dried foods) - Bemidji
Camp Chow (freeze dried foods) - Grand Marais (Gunflint Trail)"


Super cool. Never knew we had dehydrated food companies in mn!
 
02/16/2021 09:44PM  
One of my favorites is the Lupulin Brewery in Big Lake.
 
02/16/2021 09:55PM  
NorthstarNick: "The BDB Company "

If BDB is Bungee Dealee Bob, that would be OldScoutOutdoorProducts.com.
 
02/16/2021 10:05PM  
Snowtrekker tents, the gold standard for cold winter camping, are made just a measly 20 miles over the border into Wisconsin. Local enough for this thread I’d say.
 
02/16/2021 10:19PM  
There is also Stearns (pfds, etc.), now owned by Coleman, but still a mfg plant in Sauk Rapids.
 
02/16/2021 10:25PM  
Also, barely across the border is Bending Branches in Osceola, WI. Their shop is less then a mile from the border on the St. Croix River.
 
02/16/2021 10:28PM  
NorthstarNick: "
QuietSolo: "Dam Goods & Gear, Rice Lake/Duluth for paddles, rods, snowshoes and more: https://www.damgoodsandgear.com/
"



Just checked them out. Seems like they make some really nice gear!"


Geoff has built 2 custom paddles for me and a 3rd, double blade, is under discussion. He's got some mad skills. I am envious!
 
Jackfish
Moderator
  
02/16/2021 11:16PM  
Remackel Canoe Trailers are made in Forest Lake. I believe I've heard Mocha (Sheryl) rave about their quality.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 11:29PM  
Lightfoot: "
NorthstarNick: "The BDB Company "

If BDB is Bungee Dealee Bob, that would be OldScoutOutdoorProducts.com."


Seems to be the case. Thank you!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2021 11:31PM  
GopherAdventure: "Also, barely across the border is Bending Branches in Osceola, WI. Their shop is less then a mile from the border on the St. Croix River. "


Which originated in Minnesota. They use to also make hockey sticks.
 
AluminumBarge
member (47)member
  
02/16/2021 11:44PM  
Voyageurs Outdoor Gear
 
Sierracup
member (8)member
  
02/16/2021 11:45PM  
Battle Lake Outdoors - Clarissa, Mn

"High Quality Packs and Bags Handcrafted in Minnesota USA"
 
outsidethebox
distinguished member (172)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 06:01AM  
We love our little Scamp trailer!
 
02/17/2021 06:41AM  
NorthstarNick: "It's crazy how many options we have! That's why I recently decided to strictly purchase Minnesota-based from now on. While there are many amazing products from all over, there is no real need to look elsewhere. "

On its face I think I understand why you prefer to do so, but what if some of the products you are purchasing are inferior and/or pricier than out of state products? Why would you reward that?

And what if such a trend took hold in a significant way? How many of those MN producers would remain in business after they lost out of state business?

I am all for individual choice. And I do appreciate that this is a voluntary effort. But I do worry about the mindset that this produces some societal benefit. Certainly some will benefit. But at what cost? If it gains momentum, you then get politicians trying to capitalize off of it. It is a well known and observable economic fallacy.
 
OldTripper
distinguished member (240)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 07:20AM  
Productive Alternatives maker of the Rattle Wheel out of Fergus Falls, MN.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 07:26AM  
Argo: "
NorthstarNick: "It's crazy how many options we have! That's why I recently decided to strictly purchase Minnesota-based from now on. While there are many amazing products from all over, there is no real need to look elsewhere. "



On its face I think I understand why you prefer to do so, but what if some of the products you are purchasing are inferior and/or pricier than out of state products? Why would you reward that?


And what if such a trend took hold in a significant way? How many of those MN producers would remain in business after they lost out of state business?


I am all for individual choice. And I do appreciate that this is a voluntary effort. But I do worry about the mindset that this produces some societal benefit. Certainly some will benefit. But at what cost? If it gains momentum, you then get politicians trying to capitalize off of it. It is a well known and observable economic fallacy."


I see your logic behind your statement Argo and I do understand what your getting at. However, I know that my decision to keep things in state is not going to become a norm for the rest of the country or world for that matter. If it was going to endanger the well being of the greater good I would certainly avoid it. The reality is, things will continue on as usual and my decision to support local business’s will go all but unnoticed. In theory what your saying makes sense, but price point and availability rules the real world market. The vast majority wants the absolute best product at the absolute lowest price. Many of these businesses rely on locals to keep their doors open. I’d just rather put my money into them.
 
Duckman
distinguished member(526)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 07:34AM  
Argo: "
NorthstarNick: "It's crazy how many options we have! That's why I recently decided to strictly purchase Minnesota-based from now on. While there are many amazing products from all over, there is no real need to look elsewhere. "



On its face I think I understand why you prefer to do so, but what if some of the products you are purchasing are inferior and/or pricier than out of state products? Why would you reward that?


And what if such a trend took hold in a significant way? How many of those MN producers would remain in business after they lost out of state business?


I am all for individual choice. And I do appreciate that this is a voluntary effort. But I do worry about the mindset that this produces some societal benefit. Certainly some will benefit. But at what cost? If it gains momentum, you then get politicians trying to capitalize off of it. It is a well known and observable economic fallacy."


If I'm buying toilet paper or light bulbs, I want the best cheapest version I can get, wherever it's from.

I don't live in Minnesota anymore. The BDUB and Christmas are the two big reasons I go back. Buying Minnesota made gear, to me, is an added part of the trip. We do hobbies to bring us joy. Using Minnesota gear while going to the BDUB increases the joy I get from my hobby.

And I do enjoy supporting good local businesses.

That's enough for me, it adds to the benefit I get from my hobbies.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:02AM  
outsidethebox: "We love our little Scamp trailer!"


So cool, didn’t know scamp was from mn!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:05AM  
OldTripper: " Productive Alternatives maker of the Rattle Wheel out of Fergus Falls, MN."


Thanks for sharing! First I’ve heard of them.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:07AM  
Jackfish: "Remackel Canoe Trailers are made in Forest Lake. I believe I've heard Mocha (Sheryl) rave about their quality."


Nice to know of another local business I was unaware of. Thanks Jackfish!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:13AM  
Duckman
If I'm buying toilet paper or light bulbs, I want the best cheapest version I can get, wherever it's from.


I don't live in Minnesota anymore. The BDUB and Christmas are the two big reasons I go back. Buying Minnesota made gear, to me, is an added part of the trip. We do hobbies to bring us joy. Using Minnesota gear while going to the BDUB increases the joy I get from my hobby.


And I do enjoy supporting good local businesses.


That's enough for me, it adds to the benefit I get from my hobbies."


Yep! Very well said Duckman!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:20AM  
3Ball: "One of my favorites is the Lupulin Brewery in Big Lake."


Can’t say I was familiar with them. Thanks for sharing 3 ball.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:22AM  
brulu: "There is also Stearns (pfds, etc.), now owned by Coleman, but still a mfg plant in Sauk Rapids."


Yep, I wonder if onyx has any connection to stearns. Same type of product, same general St. Cloud area.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:27AM  
Jaywalker: "Snowtrekker tents, the gold standard for cold winter camping, are made just a measly 20 miles over the border into Wisconsin. Local enough for this thread I’d say. "


I see those all over YouTube. Definitely seem to be amazing tents.

 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:32AM  
Sierracup: "Battle Lake Outdoors - Clarissa, Mn


"High Quality Packs and Bags Handcrafted in Minnesota USA""



Another new company to me! Thanks for sharing sierracup!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:35AM  
AluminumBarge: "Voyageurs Outdoor Gear"


Really like what I saw from their website! Thanks for sharing AB.
 
02/17/2021 08:40AM  
Garage Grown Gear in Minneapolis. Small shop that sells primarily small cottage brand/startup outdoor gear.
 
02/17/2021 08:46AM  
I buy Bob Dylan music if that helps :)
 
CabinAfter
distinguished member (191)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:52AM  
Duluth Pack is still on the oust for me because of last July. Frost River and CCS!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:55AM  
Argo: "I buy Bob Dylan music if that helps :)"


Lol, Gotta love Dylan. he is a beauty. Noticed you are from Canada. Love it up there! One of my best buds from college is from the Kitchener area. Coast to coast, it’s hard to beat how beautiful Canada is.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 09:15AM  
geotramper: "Garage Grown Gear in Minneapolis. Small shop that sells primarily small cottage brand/startup outdoor gear."


Thanks! I will check them out!
 
02/17/2021 09:25AM  
billconner: "Rutabaga - assuming you're in the group that believes Madison is in MN. :)"


Hahahahaha! Minnesota ain't Wisconsin.
 
02/17/2021 09:27AM  
Castle Danger Brewing
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 09:36AM  
arctic: " Castle Danger Brewing"


Such a cool name for a town. It’s no surprise there have been multiple things named after it! I’d love to know the story behind the naming of the town.
 
02/17/2021 10:19AM  
NorthstarNick: "
GopherAdventure: "Also, barely across the border is Bending Branches in Osceola, WI. Their shop is less then a mile from the border on the St. Croix River. "



Which originated in Minnesota. They use to also make hockey sticks."


Lol, I had a couple BB hockey sticks growing up! I also taught in Osceola for a decade and was always trying to get cheap blemish or factory seconds models from them. Funny story for you...After the 35W bridge collapse, they were doing emergency checks of all the other bridges in the state built with similar construction around the same time. The Osceola Bridge between Minnesota and Wisconsin was deemed unsafe and needed to be fortified. They shut it down for months of repairs and rather then drive an extra 20+ miles to get around it, me and another teacher who lived in Minnesota had a canoe stashed on shore and we would canoe across the St. Croix and hike up to the road and hitchhike the last mile to the schools. Often times it was high school students giving us a ride and it became a “thing” in the community. People would be waiting for us to pop up on the road from the river to give us a ride. That went on for about 6 weeks.

Tony
 
inspector13
distinguished member(4164)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
02/17/2021 10:28AM  
NorthstarNick: "
arctic: " Castle Danger Brewing"

Such a cool name for a town. It’s no surprise there have been multiple things named after it! I’d love to know the story behind the naming of the town."

The answer for that is more ambiguous than for Pork City Hill.

 
mschi772
distinguished member(801)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 11:59AM  
TreeBear: True North Maps (I am pretty sure is Minnesota based)
"


Wisconsin, actually. Hudson, WI I think, so almost MN, but not quite.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 12:06PM  
it became a “thing” in the community. People would be waiting for us to pop up on the road from the river to give us a ride. That went on for about 6 weeks.


Tony"

Haha, that's a fun story, Tony! Love how the students and community rallied together to help you guys out on your last part of the journey to get to school.
 
FTLOSBW
  
02/17/2021 12:21PM  
Trailtopia out of Byron
 
02/17/2021 01:28PM  
ayudell: "Things that are loud:
Mercury marine
"


Headquartered in Fond du Lac, WI. I think that would be WI based company?
 
Sierracup
member (8)member
  
02/17/2021 01:52PM  
Nick, another for your list would be...Egger's spinners - Rochester, Mn
 
02/17/2021 02:39PM  
Berkley is just across the border!
 
02/17/2021 04:49PM  
Bourquin yoke pads are the best out there, and made in Ely!
 
WaveRunner
member (23)member
  
02/17/2021 04:49PM  
Bemidji Woolen Mills, Fourth generation family business that makes wool sweaters, blankets and other items. They also sell other outdoor related products from other sources.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 06:36PM  
FTLOSBW: "Trailtopia out of Byron"


Looks like they have some tasty options! Thanks for sharing!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 06:40PM  
unshavenman: " Bourquin yoke pads are the best out there, and made in Ely! "


Those look high quality!
 
02/17/2021 06:56PM  
And I bet more than a few of us go the the BWCA with toilet paper, paper towels and perhaps a few other things supplied by Target!
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 07:19PM  
WaveRunner: "Bemidji Woolen Mills, Fourth generation family business that makes wool sweaters, blankets and other items. They also sell other outdoor related products from other sources."


Can’t believe I forgot to list Bemidji woolen mills. Been in their shop a few times. Great shop. Thanks for adding them.
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 07:25PM  
Jaywalker: "And I bet more than a few of us go the the BWCA with toilet paper, paper towels and perhaps a few other things supplied by Target!"


Yep! can’t leave out target.
 
straighthairedcurly
distinguished member(1944)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:19PM  
IndyCanoe: "Enlightened Equipment is in Winona, MN


Enlightened Equipment "


I was going to add them, but saw you beat me to it. I just ordered new raingear from them. Excited for it to arrive.
 
straighthairedcurly
distinguished member(1944)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:26PM  
Red Wing Shoes (boots).
 
straighthairedcurly
distinguished member(1944)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:28PM  
geotramper: "Garage Grown Gear in Minneapolis. Small shop that sells primarily small cottage brand/startup outdoor gear."


I am addicted to this site :)
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 08:39PM  
straighthairedcurly: "Red Wing Shoes (boots)."


An absolute Minnesota staple!
 
casualbriday
distinguished member (106)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2021 09:20PM  
Limit Creek fishing rods out of spring valley.

Spin Doctor inline spinners (somewhere in the greater rochester area)

Minn-kota is in mankato if you're lucky enough to snag a motor permit.
 
02/17/2021 10:00PM  
Pearson’s candy company... I usually have several Salted Nut Rolls, Goodie Bars and Bit O’ Honey’s in my food pack.
 
Jackfish
Moderator
  
02/17/2021 10:24PM  
BWCA.com is based in Minnesota. Adam is one of those Twin Citian dudes. And Bogwalker is a FAR northern Twin Citian. As for Arkansas Man, Beemer and me... well, we're just some out of state relatives. :)
 
Minnesotian
distinguished member(2314)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/18/2021 08:16AM  
arctic: "
billconner: "Rutabaga - assuming you're in the group that believes Madison is in MN. :)"



Hahahahaha! Minnesota ain't Wisconsin."


*pushes glasses up nose*
Actually.....there is a Madison in Minnesota.
Source: I was born there.

NorthStarNick, thanks for putting this list together. I am with you in that I like to buy local as much as possible as well. This list has been a real eyeopener on who is actually based here in Minnesota.
 
IndyCanoe
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02/18/2021 08:30AM  
straighthairedcurly: "
IndyCanoe: "Enlightened Equipment is in Winona, MN



Enlightened Equipment "



I was going to add them, but saw you beat me to it. I just ordered new raingear from them. Excited for it to arrive."


I love my quilt from them. I have been looking at their rain gear for a while now and that is my next planned upgrade.
 
NorthstarNick
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02/18/2021 08:44AM  
Minnesotian: "
arctic: "
billconner: "Rutabaga - assuming you're in the group that believes Madison is in MN. :)"

Hahahahaha! Minnesota ain't Wisconsin."

*pushes glasses up nose*
Actually.....there is a Madison in Minnesota.
Source: I was born there.

NorthStarNick, thanks for putting this list together. I am with you in that I like to buy local as much as possible as well. This list has been a real eyeopener on who is actually based here in Minnesota. "

It has been eye opening for me too, Minnesotian! I thought I had a fairly good grasp on Minnesota based companies, but I couldn’t have imagined I’d learn of so many new ones. I have really appreciated and enjoyed all the feed back!
 
NorthstarNick
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02/18/2021 08:49AM  
GopherAdventure: "Pearson’s candy company... I usually have several Salted Nut Rolls, Goodie Bars and Bit O’ Honey’s in my food pack. "


Oooh, yes. Good one Tony! My dad also told me the other day that mars candy indirectly started in Minnesota. The guy who started mars candy was from here. Then moved away and started a business. It didn’t go great so he moved back to MN and then restarted his business which turned into mars candy.
 
dele
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02/18/2021 09:04AM  
Faribault Woolen Mill.

Their stuff isn't cheap but you get what you pay for. Wonderful blankets and various other items. If you don't have $300 to spend on a blanket (ours was a wedding gift; maybe our favorite of all we received), I can personally recommend their knit wool caps for winter. Very warm, comfortable, and durable for about $35-40.
 
02/18/2021 09:08AM  
Abdullah's chocolates

Burnsville or Apple Valley.

I mean...it's essential...especially if your wife likes (loves) chocolates. A necessary diet supplement for the backcountry :)
 
NorthstarNick
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02/18/2021 10:08AM  
HighnDry: " Abdullah's chocolates

Burnsville or Apple Valley.

I mean...it's essential...especially if your wife likes (loves) chocolates. A necessary diet supplement for the backcountry :)"


SWEET (pun intended)! Lol, yep also have a wife that loves chocolates:) thanks for sharing HD!
 
NorthstarNick
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02/18/2021 10:11AM  
dele: "Faribault Woolen Mill.


Their stuff isn't cheap but you get what you pay for. Wonderful blankets and various other items. If you don't have $300 to spend on a blanket (ours was a wedding gift; maybe our favorite of all we received), I can personally recommend their knit wool caps for winter. Very warm, comfortable, and durable for about $35-40. "


I really like their stuff! Haven't invested in any of their blankets, but I actually got my wife a bag of theirs for Christmas one year that was a collaboration between them and target. Really quality and it was very reasonably priced ($35ish if i recall correctly) .
 
NorthstarNick
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02/18/2021 10:19AM  
Jackfish: "BWCA.com is based in Minnesota. Adam is one of those Twin Citian dudes. And Bogwalker is a FAR northern Twin Citian. As for Arkansas Man, Beemer and me... well, we're just some out of state relatives. :)"


It's amazing how a passion for a certain place or thing can really bring people together from all different places! Pretty sure that anyone who has been to the boundary waters can not deny their is something very special about it. Out of all the traveling I have done, I still feel like its truly one of the greatest places on the planet. Obviously I'm biased in saying that being a Minnesotan, but even national geographic listed it as being amongst the 50 places of a life time to see... so it seems to stand out even on a global scale.
 
02/18/2021 11:42AM  
Republic of Durable Goods.

They are a Minnesota start up that makes a stand alone Hammock. I have not had a chance to try one but a friend of mine loves his!

Mock One
 
Northwoodsman
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02/18/2021 11:56AM  
OldTripper: " Productive Alternatives maker of the Rattle Wheel out of Fergus Falls, MN."


My home town!
 
02/18/2021 12:00PM  
Minnesotian: "
arctic: "
billconner: "Rutabaga - assuming you're in the group that believes Madison is in MN. :)"




Hahahahaha! Minnesota ain't Wisconsin."



*pushes glasses up nose*
Actually.....there is a Madison in Minnesota.
Source: I was born there.


NorthStarNick, thanks for putting this list together. I am with you in that I like to buy local as much as possible as well. This list has been a real eyeopener on who is actually based here in Minnesota. "


Lol, my wife is from the Madison, MN area too! Grew up in Marietta, but went to school in Madison. The Lutefisk!
 
Minnesotian
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02/18/2021 12:21PM  
Yes, Madison, Minnesota Lutefisk Capitol USA!

If you want a good laugh, check out this video from the early 1990's about the "rivalry" between Glenwood and Madison over who is the real Lutefisk Capitol.

Good Morning America Lutefisk
 
inspector13
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02/18/2021 12:24PM  

Since we’re talking food now too, here are some more that were born and are still headquartered in Minnesota: Old Dutch (Barrel O Fun), Happy’s, Bernatello’s (Brew Pub Pizza), Captain Ken’s, Land O Lakes, Kemps, and the granddaddy of all, General Mills.

 
02/18/2021 12:26PM  
Don't forget Jenny-O Turkey from my hometown of Willmar.
 
inspector13
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02/18/2021 12:27PM  
But Hormel was already mentioned.
 
Sandman2009
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02/18/2021 02:12PM  
inspector13: "But Hormel was already mentioned."

Speaking of Hormel, this new bacon is delicious and will be going with me on all future trips.

 
h20
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02/18/2021 03:17PM  
Granite Gear Made in China and VietNam.
 
JimmyJustice
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02/18/2021 03:46PM  
Been sampling the Black bacon off and on. It's tasty for sure.
 
Sandman2009
distinguished member (348)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/18/2021 06:07PM  
This particular package of bacon can be found at Sam's Club.
 
02/18/2021 07:57PM  
Cricket67: "Republic of Durable Goods.

They are a Minnesota start up that makes a stand alone Hammock. I have not had a chance to try one but a friend of mine loves his!


Mock One "


This company may no longer be in business. From the multitude of customer complaints, it seems the company took money for product and then didn’t ship. Lots of people out lots of money.

Looks like a nice comfy hammock in any case.
 
CRL
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02/18/2021 08:03PM  
Four Dog Stove
Tuned Up Custom Rods
 
NorthstarNick
distinguished member (108)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/18/2021 09:23PM  
CRL: "Four Dog Stove
Tuned Up Custom Rods"


I was wondering if any Minnesota companies produced camp cook wear! Thanks so much for sharing!
 
RoundRiver
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02/18/2021 09:43PM  
Bungee Deelee Bobs (Old Scout)

Good post. I always try to buy local or regional.
 
02/18/2021 11:50PM  
This list isn't complete without Crapola out of Ely, Minnesota. For those that don't know it is a gronola (Cranberries, Apple, Granola)
 
02/19/2021 09:14AM  
Mocha: "
Cricket67: "Republic of Durable Goods.


They are a Minnesota start up that makes a stand alone Hammock. I have not had a chance to try one but a friend of mine loves his!



Mock One "



This company may no longer be in business. From the multitude of customer complaints, it seems the company took money for product and then didn’t ship. Lots of people out lots of money.


Looks like a nice comfy hammock in any case."


Did not know this. It was over a year ago that I was talking to my friend about them. Too bad, seems like a good concept.
 
straighthairedcurly
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02/19/2021 11:25AM  
GopherAdventure: "Pearson’s candy company... I usually have several Salted Nut Rolls, Goodie Bars and Bit O’ Honey’s in my food pack. "


Thanks for adding this. It isn't a canoe trip for me without some Bit o'Honey.
 
NorthstarNick
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02/19/2021 12:42PM  
HangLoose: "This list isn't complete without Crapola out of Ely, Minnesota. For those that don't know it is a gronola (Cranberries, Apple, Granola)"


YUM! Love the name:) thanks for sharing!
 
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