About Us
We’re Not Just “Eye Catchers”!
Dan and his brother John fishing in the 1970s.
From Dan to Walleyedan:
The man behind the guide service
“My birth name is Daniel, but these days I’m better known as Walleyedan (thanks to Bud Reponen). I grew up fishing about every body of water in Eden Prairie, but once I was introduced to the Brainerd Lakes Area by my parents while vacationing, I knew it was where I was called to be. My first and one of my most lasting memories was one day on Dutchmans Bluff on Gull Lake with my dad and brother. We were given advice from legendary guide Marv Koep and ended up with a fish story that will never be forgotten! As the years marched on, I did end up moving to the area and started up Gull Lake Guide Service. Around this time I was also introduced to my better half, my beautiful wife Shelley.”
“Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves with 3 beautiful, God fearing children who are starting families of their own. It’s been over 30 years since the start of the guiding life and we have introduced alot of people to our passion and some of them are now following in our footsteps. I thank you for reading part of my story, and I hope that if you are in our neck of the woods and have the itch to fish (open water or ice), that you call Shelley and book a trip with one of our talented guides.“
Walleyedan
Grandma and Grandpa Eigen with a stringer of Lake Mille Lacs walleyes.
October 4, 2025
This fishing tournament is about two things: Walleyes, of course, and raising donations to support The Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes. Walleyedan helped start this tournament in 2013 and it has raised thousands of dollars to help fight hunger in our area.
“We had a phenomenal experience with Dustin from Walleye Dan. He took 4 of us out for 3 hours. Of the 4 of us 2 were children under the age of 8. He was great with the kids and we never had a hook without a leech or fish on it. Dustin moved us to a few different spots until we landed on a few hot spots. So highly recommend this outfit. We will definitely be back.“
– Ryan Vossen
“Had a great day on the lake with our guide Dustin. My father has been fishing with him for the last 5 years, and this year’s trip didn’t disappoint. Clean boat, great guide, and loads of fish! Highly recommend a day on the lake with Dustin“
– James Gardner
“Over the last 8 years, I’ve booked 1-3 trips a year, with Walleye Dan’s Guide Service, for my boys and me or my brother and me. Dustin Erickson has always put us in fish and we’ve had a great time. Have another couple of trips booked through Shelley, this summer, and we are looking forward to it!“
– Bryan Walworth