Back Roads

Downtown Fertile, Minn. was quiet on a Thursday night; most buildings were dark as businesses were closed for the evening. However, one spot had a glowing light and many sharp objects inside — just ready to be thrown. On the corner of Mill St. and Washington Ave., you’ll find the Bearded Axe Company.

Put on your closed-toe shoes and head inside for some axe-throwing merriment. The Bearded Axe Co. opened its doors in September 2021. Since then, people have enjoyed throwing axes there while celebrating all occasions like birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, football game wins or just because you need to throw an axe.

You’re not just limited to throwing axes, though; they have other sharp objects for you to hurl at the targets. There are throwing stars, machetes, spoons, shovels and meat cleavers, to name a few.

In addition to axe throwing, there’s indoor virtual trap shooting as well. Bearded Axe Co. is one of only two

axe-throwing businesses in northern Minnesota. The goal at Bearded Axe is to grow fun in Fertile. There are only so many options for entertainment in the winter in a small town. Throwing axes is another option for folks in Fertile. It’s owned and operated by Fertile residents Reid Jensrud and Jasper Olson.

The quick rules for axe throwing are that the person must be 12 feet away from the target when throwing; you may throw using one hand or two. The World Axe Throwing League states that one foot must be on the floor when throwing an axe. That’s about it — it’s simple and lots of fun.

The walls at Bearded Axe are lined with wood which is harvested locally.

It provides an outdoorsy ambiance without being outside in the frigid winter climate. There’s pop and water for purchase, plus complimentary freshly popped popcorn for snacking on between throws. It doesn’t matter the weather; throwing axes is always in season.

For more information, visit https:// www.thebeardedaxeco.com/ v