Meet Our Team
Jesse Thalmann - Owner
Jesse is the owner of Thalmann’s Guide Service, where he has logged thousands of hours on the water and ice.
Jesse is currently guiding open water and ice panfish trips.
Brand Affiliations:
Clam Outdoors, Vexilar, and Jeff’s Jigs and Flies.
Fun Fact: Jesse has been featured in multiple episodes of InFisherman.
Mike Stein - Guide
Mike joined the team in 2019 after spending six years in competitive ice fishing. With a background as a teacher, he approaches each trip as a day in the classroom. Mike provides patient instruction which is a great option if you have inexperienced anglers or kids in your group.
Mike is currently guiding open water and ice panfish trips.
Brand Affiliations:
Clam Outdoors, Vexilar, Della Bay Custom Rods, Dakota Lithium Batteries, and Cold Snap Outdoors.
Fun Fact: Mike has his own YouTube channel called YouBetcha! Outdoors where you can follow his other outdoor adventures.
Nick Miller - Guide
Nick joined the team in 2020. He brings great energy to the team and he is ready to go to work for you. Nick grew up in Otter Tail County and has loads of experience on many lakes in the area. His experience will enhance your day on the water or ice!
Nick is currently guiding open water, and ice panfish trips.
Fun Fact: Outside of fishing, Nick is an avid waterfowl hunter and loves to chat about anything hunting-related.
Scott Mackner - Guide
Scott joined the team in 2020 and provides a wealth of knowledge for chasing down those big bites. He has a unique skill set that is likely to impress any angler. In addition to his fishing prowess, he is an avid trapper and outdoorsman.
Scott is currently guiding ice panfish trips.
Brand Affiliations:
Tuned Up Custom Rods, Eskimo Fishing, Marcum Technologies, Lake Effect Lures, RBM Jigs, RLVNT Sunglasses, and Ice Fishing Minnesota.
Fun Fact: Scott has a YouTube Channel called 330 Maniac that showcases a wide variety of outdoor activities.
Jayden Petersen - Guide
Jayden joined the team in 2022 and has brought a great level of energy and fun. Jayden is an avid angler who has logged countless hours learning lakes in Otter Tail County. His drive for learning lakes will enhance your guided experience.
Jayden is available for ice panfish trips.
Fun Fact: Jayden is an avid waterfowl hunter and is eager to talk hunting.
Nick Torgerson - Guide
Nick joined the team in 2021 and he brings his proven walleye tactics. He competes consistently in walleye tournaments to keep honing his skills. His persistent pursuit will benefit any customers that choose Nick as their guide.
Nick is currently available for open water walleye trips only.
Fun Fact: Nick is the Western MN dealer for AquaTraction Flooring. If your boat floor is in need of an upgrade, get in touch with Nick!
Andrew Kraft - Guide (Bemidji Area)
Andrew joined the team in 2021. He is a certified multi-species angler but has a passion for big panfish. Andrew uses various methods to target crappies and bluegills, making a trip with him very valuable.
Andrew is currently available for open water and ice panfish trips.
Brand Affiliations:
Elliot Fishing Rods, 2B Fishing, Northland Fishing Tackle, P3 Plastics, Eskimo Fishing, and Ion Augers.
Fun Fact: Andrew has a YouTube Channel called Krafty Kronicles where you can follow his fishing adventures.
John Thalmann - Maintenance/Mechanic
John Thalmann has operated his own auto repair shop for 30 years. He is now in charge of routine maintenance and repair for the Thalmann fleet. His experience helps ensure fewer mechanical issues for our guides and customers.