Meet The Crew

The Founders

In 1973 Kurt “Sweet” Mertens met Paul “Maddogg” Smith at Harnischfeger in Milwaukee in what began a lifelong friendship and a foundation of The current Mertens and Smith Hunting Lodge. Some of the highlights under these one of a kind men this hunting camp have gone through:

Kurt Mertens

Kurt Mertens is a prolific and successful hunter. Northwoods of Wisconsin, Western US Mountains, and Yukon Territory are some of the places he has harvested big game. Miller Lite, Chevy Trucks, Hunting, family and friends are always in supply around Sweet Mertens.

Paul Smith

Paul Smith is a dedicated and experienced outdoorsman. Hunting fishing, tracking, hiking and all manner of outdoors this eagle scout is passionate about life and his family and friends. Good times with high energy are sure to be around wherever the Maddogg blesses his presence! And the Monster does hooves shake with fear when the MADOGG IS NEAR!

4 Generations and counting

Today, the next generation of the Mertson family proudly carries the torch. While the equipment may have changed, the heart of the lodge remains the same. Here, tradition meets modern camaraderie — where old tales blend with new adventures, and every season brings a fresh chapter to the story.

We honor the spirit of our founders by keeping their values alive: respect for nature, appreciation for the hunt, and gratitude for the fellowship that binds us together.

Meet the Hunters

From Echo and Pete Anderson to Landyn Mertens, the lodge has a long tradition and many hunters, both old and young, who share a camaraderie and passion.