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
“We have booked Walleye Dan 3 times and have caught tons of fish each time. His boat and set up are amazing and he knows Gull Lake like the back of his hand. Fantastic guide, definitely recommend.”
– Brian Balsbaugh
“Dan took us out on Gull Lake. It was cold! He had extra gear on board including wind pants for me. In all, we caught 2 pike and 5 bass. He showed us the places to fish on our own. It was great for me-he handed me a baited rod and reel and took my fish off the rod as I caught them. All I had to do is hook them! Great guy. I highly recommend.”
– Julie Andberg