Charting New Waters: How Boating Became a Family Tradition

Jenny Anderson, “The Girl of 10,000 Lakes,” never thought she’s spend as much time as she does on the water. Find out how boating became a family tradition. ~ The Editors

A New Kind of Family Adventure

If you’d told me 10 years ago that I’d one day be the “co-captain” of a family fishing boat, I’d have laughed and said, “Not me.” I didn’t grow up with this. I’m Korean American, born in South Korea, and my family moved to Minnesota when I was three. Growing up in the suburbs, my childhood was all about trying to fit in. Fishing? Boating? Not on my radar.

But here I am now, boating and fishing with my husband, Nick, and our kids, Harlan (5) and Juniper (3), like it’s second nature. It didn’t start that way, though. Learning to boat felt intimidating at first, but I’ve come to realize that you don’t have to grow up on the water to fall in love with it—or to make it part of your family’s story.

Tip: It’s okay to feel like a beginner! Boating has a learning curve, but that’s half the fun. You don’t need to know everything to get started—just jump in and learn as you go.

From Canoe to Our First Boat

Our boating journey started with a Kevlar canoe that originally belonged to Nick’s parents. It somehow found its way into our possession, and we decided to make it our own. That canoe carried us on some memorable adventures, especially in the Boundary Waters, but when Harlan was born, we realized fishing from a canoe with a baby in tow would be much tougher. Yes, it’s possible but we wanted something more stable and spacious. It was time for a change.

Continue reading how boating became a family tradition in Jenny’s family here.

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  About Jenny Anderson

  Jenny Anderson, known as 'The Girl of 10,000 Lakes' is a young mom, avid angler and outdoors enthusiast. Hailing from Minnesota, there are few places she'd rather be than canoeing in the Boundary Waters, ice fishing on Mille Lacs or enjoying lake life at the cabin. But her love for all things outdoors wasn’t something always instilled in her. It’s something she discovered later on in life and that’s why she encourages everyone to take more detours, step outside your comfort zone and try something new outdoors. View all posts by Jenny Anderson →