non profit org us postage st cloud mn permit #1316

Transcription

NON PROFIT ORG
US POSTAGE
PAID
ST CLOUD MN
PERMIT #1316
Fishing.
Landing.
Two totally
different things.
PETE MAINA
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You CAN have your fish and release it, too!
MUSKIE is published monthly and is the Official Publication
of Muskies, Inc. International Office: Terrie DuBé,
International Sec., 80 State Hwy. 200 NW, Longville,
MN 56655. Ph: 888-710-8286, Fax 218-836-2087.
© Copyright 2006 by Muskies, Inc. All rights reserved.
Contents
MUSKIE • VOL. 40, NO. 3
FITTANTE TAXIDERMY REPLICAS
Serving discriminating sportsmen for over 32 years
Fittante Taxidermy is proud to lead the way in unsurpassed fish reproductions. We
make our molds in-house and offer dozens of different sizes and positions. References
are available upon request and phone orders are welcome. Serving quality minded
sportsmen across the nation is our specialty.
Departments
Features
7 Characteristics of Success,
Justin Gaiche
2 President’s Message, Greg Wells
10 The 2006 Chicago Muskie Show,
David Cates
3 Magazine Notes, Staff
5 International News, Staff
16 Catch & Release Works!,
Carl Schwiekert, Sr. & Emmett A. Brown, Jr.
6 Tournament News, Staff
13 Lunge Log, Jim Bunch
22 Muskie Legends,
Brett Waldera
15 As I See It, Jim Smith
26 Southern Spring Muskie Tactics: Part One,
Colby Simms
19 Photo Contest, Juris Ozols
28 Are You Ready to Catch Your
Fish-of-a-Lifetime?, Patricia Strutz
33 Chapter News and Views
30 Muskie Photo Opportunities,
Kevin Richards
42 Member Photos, Juris Ozols
“The #1 reason I choose Joe Fittante is his artistry. He
is the only taxidermist I have found who can accurately
reproduce the true colors and markings of a living
musky. His painting technique separates him
from the rest. That is why I use him exclusively, and
prefer his work above all others.”
– Joe Bucher,
Hall of Fame Angler
Capture the moment
www.fittantereplicas.com • email: [email protected]
3 miles north of Antigo on Hwy. 45 • N4598 Hwy. 45, Antigo, WI 54409
(715) 627-7662 • 1-800-261-2327
Join Muskies, Inc. ...
or give a membership
as a gift.
40 The Way It Was,
Vinent P. Trotta
Regular Membersip: ❑ 1 Year-$35.00 ❑ 2 Years-$65.00
Family Membership: ❑ 1 Year-$47.50 ❑ 2 Years-$90.00
Junior Membership (Under 18): ❑ $20.00
❑ 3 Years- $95.00
❑ 3 Years-$132.50
❑ For Muskie Research $________
Name _______________________________ Phone ________________
Name of Spouse _____________________________________________
Address____________________________________________________
Chapter Affiliation Choice Number _______________________________
City & State_____________________________ Zip_________________
Junior Member(s)
Date of Birth (DOB)
Name ___________________________________ DOB ___________
(to find the number of the Chapter you wish to join, see the Chapter News & Views section)
(to find the number of the Chapter you wish to join, see the Chapter News & Views section)
Old Address (for address change only) ___________________________
Name ___________________________________ DOB ___________
City & State ____________________________ Zip_________
Name ___________________________________ DOB ___________
My Membership # ______________ Expiration Date _______
Check One: ❑ New Member ❑ Renewal ❑ Address Change ❑ Gift
MAIL TO MUSKIES, INC. 80 State Hwy. 200 NW,
Longville, MN, 56655
Email ________________________
Payment: ❑ Check or ❑ Credit Card:
❑ VISA
❑ AmEx
❑ Discover
❑ MasterCard
1-888-710-8286
Card # __ __ __ __- __ __ __ __- __ __ __ __- __ __ __ __ Exp. Date ____ /____ Signature ____________________________________________
www.muskiesinc.org
March 2006.....MUSKIE 1
President, Greg Wells
Phone: 920-457-3720
Email: [email protected]
by Greg Wells,
Muskies, Inc. International President
Vice President/Finances, Jim Beaty
Phone: 618-235-3646
Vice President/Research, Ron Mazur
Phone: 708-458-0055
Vice President/Internal Affairs, Dick McPike
Phone: 816-436-4909
Vice President/Membership, Bob Timme
Phone: 715-462-3053
Vice President/Communications, David Cates
Phone: 574-457-3222
Treasurer, Pete Barber
Phone: 847-726-7267
Members Only Fishing Contest, Jim Bunch
Phone: 715-723-8343 • Fax: 715-723-8354
Web Master, Ron Groeschl
Phone: 262-271-1002
Int. Administrative Secretary, Terrie DuBé
80 State Hwy. 200 NW, Longville, MN 56655
Phone: 888-710-8286 • Fax: 218-836-2087
At Large Directors
Term Expires
Dick McPike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2006
Dan Narsete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2006
Fishing for the Future
I realize that tournaments can be a hot bed of debate but I think that we can say that
there will always be tournaments whether they are money events or just for fun
competition. I have to admit that I have become intrigued with fishing against some of the
top Muskie Fishermen and Fisherwomen in the PMTT. To me it’s not about the money it is purely the camaraderie and competition; and I believe there are things that can happen
through tournaments that can have a positive effect on Muskie fishing. They can be used
as a vehicle to reinforce catch and release, to teach new and improved fish handling
techniques, to promote the abatement of water pollution and conservation in general and
to interest others in trying muskie fishing, especially youth. At a time when kids seem to
prefer to play Gameboy than to playing outside, we need to take every opportunity to
introduce and interest them in outdoor activities. In developing an interest and an
appreciation for muskie fishing, these young people will become the conservationist that
ensure the future of muskie fishing.
So what provoked this fishing for the future theme? Well my tournament partner Bill
Reidinger and I were talking about the upcoming season and I suggested that we give 50%
of our potential winnings to the MI Youth Committee. Bill was really receptive to the idea
and even one-upped me with the thought of retaining our entry fee plus expenses and
donating the rest to the Committee. How could I not agree? And believe me this is not
about looking for recognition, but just doing our part for the future of muskie fishing. At
the Tri-Essox show I ran the idea past Tim Widlacki who said “You mean if your team takes
first place you would donate somewhere around 15 – 16 thousand dollars to the Youth
Committee?” and the answer is “Yes”. Tim’s response was “that’s awesome, you need to put
that in the magazine.” Okay there is a hidden agenda. Just imagine if this rubs off on other
contestants, or other tournaments choose to follow suit. We could have a continuing stream
of income to fund youth programs well into the future. Well, Youth Committee, I hope
that you will be rooting for the home team.
Art Anderson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2006
Time to Pass the Gavel
Jack Moga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2006
Forty years of Super Bowls and there is no end in sight, forty years of Muskies, Inc.
and the same goes for MI. Muskies, Inc. is an icon and will outlive all of it’s current
membership. So what is the state of MI? Over the last few years, it has been about
economics. Just as we have seen the effect on major corporations, MI must survive rising
costs and stagnant revenue. MI has addressed this challenge with new and repeatable
income ventures, with membership drives and cost saving remedies. As everyone should be
aware the ending budget for 2004 was in the red due to some unplanned expenses. The
executive committee and the finance committee worked hard to rectify this in the 2005
budget and I am happy to say that at the end of 2005 we were in the black for the year. We
didn’t erase the 2004 deficit, but we are well on our way. Now keep in mind unlike major
corporations, the majority of this work is accomplished by volunteers. And what is their
compensation? Occasional travel expenses that don’t come close to covering costs. When it
comes right down to it, their motivation is purely their passion to help drive this great
organization. Is Muskies, Inc. perfect? Absolutely not. It is a work in progress and always
will be. It takes a lot of man-hours to reach our goals, just like the hours it takes to catch a
muskie. Someone once told me the difference between success and failure is that people
who fail try once and when that doesn’t work, they quit. People that succeed fail far more
Ron Mazur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2006
Ken Karbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2007
Jim Shannon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2007
Bob Timme
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2007
Jim Beaty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2007
Bob Osborne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2007
Laura Morrison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2008
Don Jahnke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2008
David Cates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2008
Patricia Strutz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2008
Karl Scherer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2008
often but never quit trying. They try something; if it doesn’t work they try something else.
If that doesn’t work they try something else, until they find what works. One thing I see
as exciting is how we have been encouraging more and more young members to take
leadership roles in MI. If you look at the list of ALDs for example, you will see that there
is a healthy balance of age and gender as a number of the ladies of MI have also taken the
challenge. This is excellent for the future of MI. I admire all of our members who have
volunteered at their chapter, have been or are chapter officers, and those that have become
international officers. I personally thank each of you for your commitment to MI.
Strategic Planning now is a misunderstood committee whose objective is to make MI
a better operating organization. This again is a diverse group with plenty of experience, and
they have petitioned all the chapter presidents to participate in the process. Be openminded when you hear their ideas. And better yet, get involved!
I could go on and on about all the good hard working volunteers that make this
organization work, and I should list them all. That would take a separate issue of the
magazine. There is room for more so think about volunteering this year it is quite fun. Now
it is time for me to pass the gavel.
Muskies, Inc. is alive and well and continues to evolve to fit the times and the needs.
It is seeing a time of volunteer growth and age and gender diversification. MI will continue
to build financial stability and turn more of its focus on research, fisheries & habitat, and
of course youth, in the years to come. The chapters and members will continue to be the
blood of the organization; getting their hands dirty working with their DNRs, fish
stocking, habitat restorations, youth programs, and plain old fun and fishing. Every so
often a grand event will arise that will rekindle our purpose as did the symposium this year.
MUSKIES INC FOREVER!
In parting, I say thank you for the privilege of being a member and it has been an
honor to be president of MI. You will still see and hear from me as I enjoy serving MI and
will continue to do so. I am so thankful for all the new friends and all that I have learned
through MI. I have been well compensated.
David Cates it is now your turn and you will receive 100% support from me. ❖
MUSKIE Magazine Staff
Rod Ramsell, Editor Emeritus
Keith Ogden, Editor Emeritus
MANAGING EDITOR
Jim Smith
15045 W. Double Tree Way
Surprise, AZ 85374-8568
Phone/Fax: (623) 388-3225
Cell: (623) 810-9103
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Juris Ozols
Phone: (952) 956-5793
ADVERTISING MANAGER “MUSKIE”
Kimberly D Miller Associates K
P.O. Box 543 • Syracuse, IN 46567
Phone: (574) 529-0228
PUBLICATIONS TECHNICAL MANAGER
Sunray Printing Solutions, Inc. - Brenda Kirchner
25123 22nd Ave. S. • St. Cloud, MN 56301-9189
Phone: 888-253-8808, ext. 133
MAGAZINE DESIGN
Sunray Printing Solutions, Inc. - John Windschitl
ILLUSTRATORS/CARTOONISTS
Richard Gross
FIELD EDITORS
Bob Chochola, Elizabeth Cratty, Adam Glickman,
Robert Jennings, Mike Kanaval, Colby Simms,
Patricia Strutz
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Justin Gaiche, David Cates, Carl Schwiekert, Sr.,
Emmett A. Brown, Jr., Brett Waldera,
Colby Simms, Kevin Richards, Vincent P. Trotta
ABOUT THE COVER
A very special cover and issue this month –
previously unpublished material from the life of Gil
Hamm, founder of Muskies Inc.
The cover background shows a youthful Gil,
perhaps the earliest existing picture of him with a
fish. Next to it is likely the last “fish picture” of
Gil in 1984, just two months before he passed
away. Beneath that is Gil’s Muskies Inc. Life
Member card, # 01-1. The logo for the month is
the original one used for many years by our club.
These historical items come from our Muskie’s
40th Anniversary Founders’ Project, thanks to the
efforts of Vince Trotta from the Twin Cities chapter. Vince has been working for
several months now to gather information on the Muskies Inc. founders. He’s had
interviews, emails, phone calls, and has started collecting a wealth of information
about the very early days of Muskies Inc.
We show more from him in the centerfold, and he’s also written a short piece about
the way it was before MI. And we’ll have more in the coming months.
If you have things you’d like to share, please drop a line to Vince. We have a
“Wanted” ad with his contact information on page 23.
MUSKIE is published exclusively for the
membership of Muskies, Inc. and subscriptions
come with a paid membership. Muskies, Inc. is
a non-profit organization. Membership classes
and associated annual dues are listed on the
form at the bottom of page one. Single copies
of MUSKIE magazine are available at $3.00
each from the Muskies, Inc. International
Office.
Contributors grant rights for M.I. to publish
once in MUSKIE Magazine, both the print and
on-line versions, including archives and on the
M.I. Web site.
Submissions to
MUSKIE Magazine
Persons interested in submitting articles for
publication are directed to our website
www.muskiesinc.org. There they will find a
link to MUSKIE Magazine. From there you
will find links on the left side of the page
providing
information
necessary
for
submissions to MUSKIE Magazine. Further
questions will be answered by Jim Smith,
Managing Editor. Submissions may be sent
to: 15045 W. Double Tree Way • Surprise, AZ
85374-8568. Phone: (623) 388-3225 or you
may
Email: [email protected].
(Continued on next page)
2 MUSKIE.....March 2006
www.muskiesinc.org
M AG A Z I N E N OT E S ◆ M AG A Z I N E N OT E S ◆ M AG A Z I N E N OT E S ◆ M AG A Z I N E N OT E S
International
Officers
The President’s Message
I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E WS
I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E WS ◆
HILTON MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL AIRPORT HOTEL
3800 AMERICAN BOULEVARD EAST BLOOMINGTON, MN 55425
952-854-2100
www.mspairport.hilton.com
Mention Muskies, Inc. code INT when making your reservation on line or by phone to receive a
special rate. We have reserved 20 rooms for Thursday night, 60 rooms for Friday night and 75 rooms
for Saturday night at a special rate on a first come basis. Special rate available only until March 2,
so make your reservation early.
AGENDA
FRIDAY, MARCH 31
Muskies, Inc. registration
Al Skarr Leadership Seminar
Hospitality Suite
Hospitality Suite
SATURDAY, APRIL 1
Muskies, Inc. registration
Board Meeting
Dinner/Awards/Fund Raiser
Precisely on the 56th anniversary of Louie Spray’s catch (October
20, 1949), the World Record Muskie Alliance (WRMA) hand
delivered their 90 plus page challenge of the all-tackle world record
muskellunge to our organization.
The thrust of the WRMA’s challenge was that through photoanalysis, they claimed that the 1949 catch could not have been longer
than 54 inches. Obviously, a 54-inch musky could not weigh close
to 70 pounds.
The National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame’s Executive
Board of Directors carefully examined the WRMA’s protest over a 3month period. On January 16th, 2006 the Board unanimously voted
(with 1 abstention and 2 recusals) that the WRMA’s challenge lacked
sufficient merit to overturn the all-tackle muskellunge record. In fact,
they fell far short in proving their allegations.
Key to the Board’s decision are the following conclusions:
The WRMA photo analysis uses software that is flawed for their
purposes. The software’s manufacturer states, in essence, that in
order for the conclusion of the analysis to be valid the photo must
have 2 or more strong points of perspective. We contacted 2
professors (one in Technological Studies and one in Art) to
determine whether or not the photo is based upon (at least) a strong
2 point perspective. Both of them unequivocally agree that the photo
(Continued on page 6)
Chapter 17 of Muskies, Inc.
Quad County HAWG Hunters
All Specie Fishing Seminar
NAME(S) ____________________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS ________________________________________ PHONE # _________________________
CITY _________________________________
STATE ________
ZIP _________________________
NORTHWOODS BUFFET DINNER $30.00 per person – Minnesota Wild Rice Soup, Pan-Fried Walleye, Chicken,
potatoes, salad/coleslaw, rolls/butter.
___ TICKETS @ $30 each ___________
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: MUSKIES, INC.
Attn: Greg Randolph, 1039 Wedgewood Lane N, Eagan, MN 55123, Phone: (651) 452-1209
This year’s Annual Seminar and Fund-raiser is scheduled for March 14, 2006 at the Yorkville American Legion in
Yorkville, IL. Advanced sale of tickets will cost $8.00 and sales at the door will be $10.00. The club is thrilled to have
two top-notch fishermen speaking this year. Don Dziedzina and Mike Hulbert.
Don will be speaking on many different species of fish – not just muskies. Don can be seen on Channel 17 sports show,
Illinois Outdoors, along with many fishing columns in local newpapers and at many of the fishing shows in Northern
Illinois. Don can be found on Illinois Outdoor’s website: www.illinoisoutdoors.com.
Mike Hulbert is one of Indiana’s top muskie fishermen. Mike runs a guide service for lakes in Indiana(ie. Webster,
Tippecanoe, and Barbee Chain) in addition to trips to some of the top muskie spots in Minnesota. Mike writes for Muskie
Hunter magazine, was a top-20 finisher in the PMTT, along with many other championships and top-10 finishes in local
muskie tournaments, and was the top in muskie releases for the state of Indiana in 2004 with over 200 fish released.
Mike’s website can be found at: mikehulbert.com.
Our seminar wouldn’t be complete without food and refreshments available, a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and major
raffle prizes worth hundreds of dollars(fishing rods and reels, trips, framed prints, etc.). For advanced tickets please call
Mark Johnson at (630) 553-2985 or e-mail Mark at [email protected]. The American Legion is on Route 34,
one mile east of Route 47 in Yorkville, IL.
www.muskiesinc.org
I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E WS
March 14, 2006
Doors open 5:30 pm – Speakers begin 6:30 pm
REGISTRATION DUE MARCH 20, 2006
MARCH 31 – APRIL 1, 2006
The National Fresh Water Fishing
Hall of Fame Upholds The
All-Tackle Muskellunge Record
40TH ANNUAL SPRING
BOARD MEETING,
BANQUET AND FUND
RAISER
is not. Additionally, it is troubling to us that the WRMA’s photo
analysis did not use a “control” to test their hypothesis. Clearly, they
employed flawed science.
We had the same photo analyzed by 2 professors of Mathematics.
Both men hold Doctorate of Mathematics degrees. They employed
“same plane, direct scaling” for their analysis. Their conclusion is
that the muskie in the Spray photo is somewhere in the 63-64 inch
range. We also tested their hypothesis with a control photo. A
control photo was posed similar to the Spray photo and was
submitted to the professors for analysis. Their conclusion is that the
fish in the control photo is 51-52 inches. The musky in the control
photo was measured to be 51 inches. We did not give the professors
this information. Obviously, same plane, direct scaling is an accurate
method to determine the length of an object.
The rest of the WRMA’s report deals with speculation, bar talk
and outright false statements. We chose to discount all of it due to
its inherent unreliability.
Additionally, we chose not to consider any information regarding
Spray’s 1939 and 1940 muskies. These 2 fish have never held a record
of any kind with in our records keeping program. We do not
recognize fish in the number 2,3 and so on positions in any of our
categories. We only recognize the number 1 fish!
Finally, all of the eyewitness documentation regarding the alltackle world record muskellunge is extensive, complete and quite
legal. Without strong challenges of these documents, they must stand.
Indeed, Louie Spray’s 69 lb. 11 oz. all-tackle world record
muskellunge stands on its own merit.
Please go to our website www.freshwater-fishing.org for a
complete report of our decision, supported by all of the
documentation and pictures.
Thank you for your interest in our records program. Best
regards,
Emmett A. Brown, Jr., Executive Director
National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame
I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E WS & TO U R N A M E N T N E WS u I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E WS & TO U R N A M E N T N E WS
CHARACTERISTICS
OF SUCCESS
INTERNATIONAL NEWS (Continued from page 5)
TOURNAMENT
NEWS
Traveling to Canada?
In the coming years returning to the US from a vacation muskie
fishing in Canada will be a little more difficult. In April of 2005 the
Department of Homeland Security announced new passport
requirements. US citizens coming back into the states from
neighboring nations and the Caribbean will be required to show
passports starting as soon as December 31, 2005.
The new passport regulations are intended to make coming into
the US without official citizenship documents more difficult. The
new policy, obviously intended to help identify possible terrorists, will
require muskie anglers to obtain a passport. Americans are currently
required to show only a driver’s license to reenter from Canada.
Though additional documents have been required at some border
crossings since September 11, 2001, most crossings require minimal
identification.
Fortunately for us, and the US Postal Service, this doesn’t happen
all at once. The changes will be phased in through 2008 but you’ll still
want to be prepared. Please take note of the following dates that may
affect your travel:
December 31, 2005 – After this date anyone traveling to or from
the Caribbean, Central or South America will be required to have a
passport.
December 31, 2006 – After this date anyone traveling to or from
Mexico or Canada by air or sea will be required to have a passport.
December 31, 2007 – After this date passports will be required
at all air, sea and land border crossings with Mexico and Canada. This
final phase of the new requirement will have the greatest impact on
anglers traveling to Canada.
Obtaining a passport is relatively painless, then again the 82 to
97 dollar fee might seem painful. After all that is 5 or 6 muskie lures.
Passport applications are available from your local US Post Office. It
is a good idea to apply for your passport at least 3 months before
you’ll need it. If this is your first passport, you must apply in person.
You can apply at any passport agency or at one of the many clerks of
court or post offices designated to accept passport applications.
What you’ll need:
• Proof of US citizenship (usually a certified copy of your birth
certificate, previous US passport, a naturalization certificate or a
Consular Report of Birth Abroad)
• Two identical recent front view photos (2” x 2”).
• A completed passport application (Form DSP-11).
• Proof of identity. Such as your valid drivers license or other
photo or physical description ID.
• And the appropriate fee for a passport valid for 10 years.
• Your birth certificate or other documents will be returned to you
by mail, along with your new passport.
For more detailed information you can inquire on-line at the
State Department website – www.travel.state.gov
With the requirements impacting so many Americans it is likely
the normal turnaround time for passports will increase, especially as
December 31, 2007 approaches. Like sharpening your hooks in the
off season, be prepared and obtain your passport well in advance of
your Canadian trip.
– Will Schultz
South Side Muskie Hunters
2006 Members Only Tournament Results
Hayward Lakes Chapter
2006 Members Only Tournament Results
The Hayward Lakes Chapter had its February meeting on the 7th
and the 2006 schedule should be out to each member household. The
standings of the 2005 of our members fishing contest are as follows:
JUNIORS:
WOMENS:
Alex Spezia 2 fish for 35pts.
Alex Bement 2 fish for 21 pts.
Anthony Spezia 1 fish for18 pts.
Kerry Smith 9 fish for 101 pts.
Tera Neibauer 2 fish for 26 pts.
Carol Chinnock 1 fish for 25pts. 51"
Jamie Spezia 1 fish for 24 pts. 50
WOMENS MASTERS:
MENS:
Sarah Muntz 13 fish for 178 pts.
Jack Woehler 6 fish for 74.5 pts.
Roger Williamson 5 fish for 63 pts.
Mike Persson 4 fish for 44 pts.
MENS MASTERS:
SENIOR MASTERS:
Adam Glickman 38 fish for 393 pts.
Dick Minnick 132 fish for 1239 pts.
Tom Muntz 137 fish for 1215 pts.
Good Fishing, Mike Persson
by Justin Gaiche
I
n the middle of the state of Wisconsin lies the quaint city of
Mosinee. Surrounding the Wisconsin River, its 4,000 people are
lit up by the lights of Friday night football games and smiles from
their neighbors. It is here where I grew up fishing with my
Grandfather, learning the techniques that had made him a great
angler. I return occasionally to assist with Youth Fishing Days,
teaching kids how to cast, tie knots and about all of the fish in
Hall of Fame Angler and Muskie enthusiast Joe Bucher.
Wisconsin waters. At one point in each seminar I make a point to ask
the children what they want to be when they grow up. Hands fly up
and as I call upon them I get answers like Professional Hockey,
Football and Baseball players, actors, princesses and fishermen. Each easily and determination is what helped make Joe a top name in
time I hear “professional fisherman” I smile looking back on the times musky fishing. Joe shares with us one experience where
I watched the likes of Joe Bucher, Babe Winkleman and Al Lindner determination played a huge role in his success.
on television dreaming one day that would be me.
“The best example I can give you of determination involves a
While we often dream we seldom look at how
series of trips and the days involved in cracking
much work is involved in reaching them. Dreams
Georgian Bay and the French River a few years
do not come without effort. Sometimes it is as
back. I took two full week trips unsuccessfully to
Day three turned
easy as buying a plane ticket and traveling to a far
the French River. Initially the only fish caught on
away destination or as difficult as dedicating a
everything around for
those two weeks was a single 50 incher my partner
lifetime to a goal like becoming the president.
Tom Sullivan caught on the last day of the second
me and proved that
This is no different for us as musky anglers.
trip. I, on the other hand, never caught a single
my determined
Simply stepping up to the plate and getting started
musky in those first two-week trips.
is a dream come true to many. For others, catching
On the third trip, with Gabor Ujvary, we
personality
had
its
your first musky, first legal or catching that elusive
drove all night to get there and then fished a 15upsides. I start the day hour day. We didn’t catch a fish all day until the
50 incher may consume your every thought.
Regardless of your dreams, it takes several things to
out by tagging a 55-1/2 very end of the first day. Trolling around a point
come together to be truly successful. Of these
at sunset, Gabor said, “I’ve got a snag”. Barely
incher on the first spot! right
things you are the more important part. There are
able to keep my eyes open at this point, I looked up
several characteristics that are common amongst
at his rod and back at the source of the “snag” and
successful anglers and I would like to talk about
saw a huge swirl. I immediately exclaimed
some of these successful anglers and the characteristics that make “Gabor”, snags don’t move and snags don’t boil”. A few minutes later,
them musky superstars.
we landed his biggest fish to date, a 52-1/2 incher.
After a much needed good night’s sleep, we hit the water hard all
day on day two with no luck. However, at the end of day two, I held
When people say “the fish of 10,000 casts” they mean it. Musky the boat in somewhat of a dangerous, heavy current area with the
is no doubt the most difficult freshwater fish to pursue, hook and outboard and suggested Gabor cast to a specific spot where some big
land. Their massive size, low population density and unpredictable boulders broke the current into a slack water eddy. He insisted I cast
behaviors can bring grown men to tears. Without question, a person there since he already had a big fish, but I couldn’t since I was forced to
must be determined to catch one of these beasts and often go through work the boat. Gabor’s first cast into that spot yielded a 53-1/2 incher!
a grueling time period to get their first. Once achieved, it gets easier
So now I’ve taken two friends to this place and they’ve both
to catch your next fish but with certainty, you will go through spells taken 50 inchres and I’ve yet to catch a single fish! Talk about testing
where you feel as though you must start over. It is determination that your determination?
keeps us going until we get back into the rhythm and start catching
Day three turned everything around for me and proved that my
fish again. Joe Bucher knows determination. Joe has made a great determined personality had its upsides. I start the day out by tagging
impact in the sport of musky angling. He has created several a 55-1/2 incher on the first spot! Three hours later I catch a 52-1/2
foundations in the industry like Joe Bucher Tackle; the largest musky incher that was one of the fattest I’ve ever seen. In fact, I’m betting
related lure manufacturer in North America, Musky Hunter this fish outweighed the 55 incher. Finally, late in the afternoon, I
Magazine, the pinnacle of musky publications (ed. note - excepting caught a 50 1/8 incher. Three 50 inchers in a single day! It took me
MUSKIE Magazine), and also a television program that brought three trips, a ton of hours, and a lot of Ben Gay to get to this point,
viewers at home into world of Wisconsin’s angling wonders. Between but obviously determination paid off.
his lure company, guiding, television, publications and music, it may
seem as though Joe has it made. None of Joe’s successes have come
DETERMINATION
www.muskiesinc.org
CHARACTERISTICS OF SUCCESS
outdoors. Try to remember that this is a sport and you are
just a participant and its something that cannot be taken
for granted. I have a lot of guiding clients, some from
other seas and countries that don’t get to fish as regularly
as I do if at all. For many of them their only fishing trip is
the one they had taken with me. When you sit back and
think about that, you begin to realize just how fortunate
you are to chase muskies and that we live in a country
where we are allowed to do these things with great
freedoms. Remember that musky fishing is a freedom and
catching a fish is just a bonus.”
When Justin asked me to write this and I thought
about it, you can see how easy it is for me to keep a positive
attitude while fishing!!!
(Continued from page 7)
FOCUS
So many anglers that I have spoken to truly believe that muskies
wait until you’re not looking to strike a bait. Admittedly there have
been several times that this has happened to me. Perhaps more true
than what my friends believe is that there are simply several times
throughout the day that we lose focus. It is understandably easy to
slip into a daydream when one repeats the motion of casting for
several hours or days. It is the importance of focus that allows us to
capitalize on our opportunities when a fish strikes and to notice
changes in the surrounding environment and to adapt to those
conditions. It is far too easy to put a single bait on, drive the boat to
8’ of water and cast weed edges all day. Truly successful anglers realize
this and avoid it by constantly watching his actions and the ones
taking place around them. Roger Sabota is a professional guide who
takes great pride in focus and adapting to conditions. Roger’s decades
of experience as an educator in the Rhinelander, Wisconsin area likely
contributes largely to their mindset. With this focus, Roger and his
clients have boated hundreds of muskies including several giants.
However, sometimes having clients that don’t focus seems inevitable.
“One day I was trying to get an older fellow to make a figure
eight at the end of each and every cast. He laughed at me and said,
“Nobody ever caught a musky on a figure eight and you guides will
sit and laugh at us if we make figure eights”. During the next 40
minutes I caught 2 muskies at boat side on figure eights. Following
that he was ready to learn how to do a figure eight.
Another day a youngster and his dad were fishing for muskies for
their first time. The youngster was getting bored and not paying
attention so I said, “You should be aware that a musky watches an
angler’s eyes and when the angler looks away they grab the lure.” He
began to look at the sky as he reeled his lure in. All of a sudden he
said, “Hey, I can’t lift my lure out of the water”. “I looked and a big
musky had his lure crosswise in its mouth at boat side and was just
lying there very still.”
Having fun before the WMT on Minocqua.
Pete Hilman is the one wearing the wig.
with fading time. When fishing tournaments there are two people
that seem unaffected by the conditions around them as you can often
hear them laughing and cheering across the bay. Phil Schweik and
Pete Hilman are two of the sport’s most successful anglers. With
countless titles to their names you think it would be easy for them to
lose hope and prepare for the next round. This simply isn’t true as
you notice the joy in their voices after each day on the water. Let’s
take an opportunity to see what Phil thinks when you ask him about
a positive attitude.
“There are two ways to look at keeping a positive attitude when
you are on the water. The first is when you’re fishing with a partner,
whether your wife, friend or tournament partner. There is nothing
more important than to have that someone in the boat with you that
has a positive attitude. By having someone in the boat with a positive
attitude you tend to feed off of each other’s moods or emotions. You
joke around; talk about anything and everything and you keep that
positive type of attitude going all day long. Most of all when you are
in that state of mind you can put your two heads together and usually
come up with a pattern for success. You are not thinking about the
negatives but you are focused on the positives, and by doing this you
tend to make better judgment calls and put yourself in a better
position to be successful.”
“Second is when you are on the water by yourself. During these
Blistering sun, flat calm waters and heavy recreational traffic can
break a musky angler down. You have been casting since 6:00a.m. times it requires more for me to stay focused. I believe that a lot of
with one sluggish follow right off the bat and nothing since. Twilight what goes on while fishing is an emotional state and that you are
is hours away and you find no hope in casting as you think of the successful if you are in the right state of mind. If you go with out an
lemonade in the fridge back at the cabin. Tournaments can especially “I or we aren’t going to catch anything” type of attitude you probably
bring on this feeling as you cannot pickup and go to another lake, won’t catch anything! You will be discouraged and at the first
have seen other anglers catch fish and your dreams of success dwindle negative thing that does wrong you will probably turn around and
head in complaining to the first person you see
about how there aren’t any fish in the lake.”
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“Everyone talks about going musky fishing and
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LOVE OF THE GAME
With my job as guide, tournament angler and Fishing
Manager of Gander Mountain I have the pleasure of
traveling and meeting hundreds of musky anglers
annually. Each of them possess something each guide,
tournament angler, writer and television personality has
and that is the “love of the game”. There is something
special in musky anglers that puts smiles on our faces even
in the dead of winter as you know your chance to battle
the beast will come again. We adorn every available space
in our homes with musky memorabilia and stop at
nothing to find an excuse to go to a sport show, hop on the
water or read about musky fishing. It is this passion that
makes musky fishing what it is, even more so than the fish
itself. I commend you all as anglers and know that it is
“the love of the game” that makes musky fishing what it is.
CLOSING
I hope next time you swing back to take a cast you
think about these things. It is true that learning how
situations like cold fronts and high skies effect muskies will
help you catch more fish, but it is the characteristics of
musky anglers shown above that makes us truly successful.
No matter what
level of angler you
are,
possessing
each of these traits
will help you put
more muskies in
the boat.
As
important as it is
for us to achieve
our goals and
dreams,
these
traits will instill
the same dreams
into our youth so
that one day their
determination,
focus,
positive
thinking and love
for the game will
keep them on
track for a full and
Pete Hilman in a more quiet moment,
happy life. -jg- ❖
working a suick during sunrise.
www.muskiesinc.org
Muskies, Inc. Booth, (from L) Barb Timme, David
Cates, Bob Timme, Ellen Wells, and Pete Barber.
E
Steve Herbeck of Andy Myers Lodge
booking another trip
ncarta, Microsoft’s online encyclopedia, defines “cabin fever”
as “an emotional condition, marked by irritability, distress, or
depression, caused by prolonged isolation or confined living
quarters.” Muskie fishermen living North of the hard water line are
all too familiar with this malady. Fishing videos, bait sorting,
equipment maintenance, and lurking on online forums only go so far
to relieve the symptoms. The 2006 Chicago Muskie Show provided
the perfect mid-winter fix.
Hosted by Lynn Schuster and Steve Statland of Tri-Esox
Productions (www.chicagomuskieshow.com) the show provided
everything for the Muskie angler looking for a start to the season.
That fact is well recognized by Muskie enthusiasts, leading both
Schuster and Statland to echo
that Saturday’s attendance
was “the largest single day
attendance of any Muskie
show, anywhere in the world,
ever.” The show provided an
opportunity
for
manufacturers to share their
newest creations, retailers to
make
those
creations
available to the public, guides
Greg Marino, Linda Rice & Colin Goose and resorts to showcase their
share big muskie stories at the show.
wares (and allow for the
inevitable planning and dreaming on the part of the angler), and
taxidermists and artists to showcase angling success.
Although I had attended the show for some years, I was
accompanied this year by a rookie Muskie angler. I found it
interesting to see the show through her eyes, and see how she
approached the sport of Muskie fishing.
So where to start? Everyone needs a rod (or twelve). My stick of
choice again came from Frank’s Custom Rods (contact Frank
Bottiglieri at [email protected]). An eight foot six inch
custom minnow bait rod complete with an extra long handle and
custom wraps will soon be mine. Frank’s time at the show was
obviously successful, as his inventory was almost completely depleted
by the show’s conclusion.
The “Rook” took a different but equally valid route. She
examined the rods available at Rollie and Helen’s Muskie Shop
(www.muskyshop.com), Thorne Bros. (www.thornebros.com),
Smokey’s Musky Shop (www.smokeysmuskieshop.com), and others,
before deciding upon a St. Croix Avid. Chuck Brod of the
Sportsman’s
Repair
Shop
in
Mosinee,
Wisconsin
(www.sportsmanrepair.com) took the time to show her different
models, explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each, and
allowed her to choose a seven foot six inch medium heavy model. A
new Abu Garcia Record 51 reel will be mated with that rod and
should provide a good, all around outfit.
Muskies, Inc. Treasurer Pete Barber
looking for tips on fishing the "Big Chip"
With a rod and reel, you need baits,
and the retailers’ displays were filled. The
lures were substantially of two types,
either from large manufacturers or small
“garage based” lure builders. Mike
Michalak of the Guide’s Choice Pro Shop
(www.guideschoiceproshop.com) and “60
Second Angler” fame described some of
the new baits available for the 2006 year.
Musky Innovations Realfish
Look for the new Flutter-tail from Bucher
Bullhead and Perch Baits
Manufacturing (a tremendous rubber
action bait), Invaders, Slammers, and the Lac Seul Turbo, a top water
bait with twin counter rotating tails.” He also spoke highly of new
colors of Bulldawgs, Smitty baits, Cobbs, Smutly Dogs and Mantas.
The smaller manufacturers were typified by Joe Peterson of True
Glide Baits (www.trueglide.com). Peterson described his baits as
“hand shaped of cedar with a minimum of nine holes of lead poured
in them at different intervals and depths.” Each bait is then sanded
approximately 15 times, specially painted and sealed with an extra
hard epoxy. The topcoat is condensed to make it harder and more
durable. Joe has 8 different models available, including 4 gliders, a
chop bait, 2 top waters, and a 13” crank bait.
Another example of the individual manufacturer is the maker of
the unique Wish Master Baits (www.wishmasterbigbaits.com). Ralf
Balansiak, owner and
manufacturer of Wish
Master
Baits,
described his baits as
“made of British
Columbia Red Cedar,
each
individually
hand carved, hand
sanded, hand painted,
with through wire
construction,
and
aircraft
aluminum
Wishmaster Lures
diving lips.” His baits
are used for trolling and smashing rocks and “grinding” in Georgian
Bay. His baits receive a minimum of 30 total coatings of paint, and
Balansiak claims that no Muskie or Pike has ever been able to get its
teeth into the finish, let alone the wood. Each of his baits takes a
minimum of 20 hours over at least 21 days to manufacture.
Of course, rods, reels and baits are no good without the
knowledge to use them. The seminar line up for the Chicago Show
read like a who’s who of the Muskie fishing world. Speakers included
Larry Ramsell, Joe Bucher (whose poolside demo was filled to
overflowing with spectators), Mike Hulbert, Steve Heiting, Spence
Petros, Jim Saric, Steve Herbeck, Gregg Thomas, Dick Pearson (who
announced his retirement from the seminar circuit), Pete Maina, and
Chad Cain. The knowledge conveyed
along with the opportunity to converse
with these Muskie minds made the price
of admission more than worthwhile.
Having the equipment and the
Nimmer Swimmer Spongebob knowledge, where do we go? The
Squarepants Bait
opportunities were almost endless. Guides
Gregg Thomas (www.battlethebeast.com), Chae Dolson
(www.websterlakeguideservice.com),
and
Mike
Hulbert
(www.mikehulbert.com), among others, were available for bookings.
Hulbert Guides in Indiana in the spring and fall and in the Bemidji,
Minnesota area in the summer. He described the show as “probably
the best show they ever had”. In his view, the future of Muskie fishing
“is only going to get better, with places like Indiana having
exceptional fishing and Illinois, new states, new lakes getting stocked,
and more people every year joining the sport,
is only going to get better and better and bigger
and bigger”.
Those looking for more than a guide date
found many resorts available for bookings.
Moose
Horn
Lodge
(www.mosehornlodge.com), Red Wing Lodge
(www.redwinglodge.net), Young’s Wilderness
Camp (www.youngswildernesscamp.com),
and others showcased last year’s memories and
created opportunities for this year’s dreams.
Steve Herbeck, of Andy Myers Lodge on Eagle
Lake, Ontario, (www.andymyerslodge.com)
emphasized both improvements to his facilities
and the extended instruction available to guests
there. One advantage of staying at Andy Myers
Lodge is the availability of the 4-wheel drive
side trips. Herbeck indicated that his guides are
looking into some new lakes to provide
adventures, and emphasized that there would
be flights available from his camp to even more
remote lakes than in the past. Herbeck
reported, “This show is one of the best shows I
have had at a Muskie show”.
For a slightly different take on the Muskie
fishing trip, Mike Michalak of at Guides
Choice Pro Shops, spoke of their fishing school
concept. If you have not attended one of their
schools, each involves morning and evening
seminars with fishing during the day. Michalak
spoke of plans for more houseboat trips on Lac
Seul, more camps in Canada (including a trip
to Big Narrows Camp on Lake of the Woods),
as well as their classic Muskie schools running
into October in Wisconsin.
With the equipment, the knowledge, and
the location, can success be hard to find? Ron
Lax
taxidermy
(www.fishinfo.com/go/laxtaxidermy/), and
Fittante taxidermy (www.fittantereplicas.com),
showed their exquisite replicas at the show.
Many a successful Muskie angler was able to
claim his or her replica there. Also at the show
was Rod Umlaf of Umlaf Art Studio
(www.umlafstudio.com) in Lake Tomahawk,
Wisconsin. Umlaf provides a slightly different
method of documenting a catch with his
www.muskiesinc.org
”Custom Trophy Portraits”. Umlaf
gathers information from the
fisherman about the catch to try to
recreate the scene in an original
artwork. He asks for a photo of the
fish, the bait with which it was
caught, the boat from which it was
caught, and as much of the scene
Drifter Tackle Booth, Di Mindar
as possible. In three or four
and associate.
months, he can complete an
original oil on canvas work, telling more of the story behind the catch
than a replica. Umlaf, himself a Muskie fisherman, commented that
“I used to fish way too much, now I don’t fish enough”. Having again
had the opportunity to experience the Chicago Muskie Show, I know
exactly what he means. Soon so will the “Rook”. ❖
LIMITED EDITION CAP
by
As a Muskie Fisherman and Member of Muskies Inc.
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2005 Final Statistics!
It is over; we waited until January 31, 2006 to publish our thing.
We did that because some of you very dedicated people were still
fishing muskies right to the end of 2005. Justine Bowser of the Three
Rivers Chapter was still at it at 3 PM on December 31st with a 35 out
of the Allegheny River in PA. Maybe it was Tom Long of the PennJersey Chapter; he reported a 40 at 3 PM New Years Eve day from the
Lehigh River in PA. Or maybe it was Tom Sabia of Penn-Jersey with
a 32 and a 34 out of the Lehigh River with no time specified on the
last day of the year. December is becoming a month to fish. There
were 64 muskies caught in December in 05. It used to be zero. Of
course one of our super stars did his thing again in December.
Howard Wagner of Fombell, PA a long standing big fish pursuer
has struck again. He likes it cold, miserable and lots of snow. He
attacks the Allegheny River each December. On December 20th he
warmed up to the task a bit and landed a 50 inch. He was not there
for that one. The day after Christmas he beached (or landed shall we
say – no beaches in PA) in December a 53.5 inch which you see in
the snow and cold in this picture. This muskie is the December
International Lunker of the Month. So with these two big pigs just
pack up and go home. Right? Wrong. You don’t know Howard
Wagner. He was in this section of the river for three weeks; he was not
there for the 50 or the 53.5, he was there for the big one. He spent
three weeks in the water, yes in the water, standing and casting. He
paid the price though; he received first stage frost bite on his left ankle
from one day standing nine hours in the water when it was only 13
degrees air temperature. The frost bite has since cleared up but he
thinks maybe he should leave it to the young pups. Maybe the young
pups don’t have the commitment for big ones like Howard does.
Howard was there for mama, she was twice as thick as the 53.5
inch. Several times in three weeks she came to him, right up to him
as he stood casting in the water. As a matter of fact one day when she
pushed away on a super follow she pushed off his leg with her tail as
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Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g
g
nge L
u
L
e
o
h
t
Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g ◆ Lu n g e L o g
she left. Howard remained in very persistent
pursuit but as he explains, the January thaw
wiped out everything and she is gone. Sitting
here in Wisconsin or where you are, why did
she leave? I guess that is why we remain in
respect of this great muskie fisherman.
Howard says his friend Rick Jackson also saw
her swim up to him. He shares that he only
hopes she will return next December. Any
guess where Howard will be.
Greatest Year Ever!
You did it again 16,692 entries for 2005.
That is the most ever. This is the 3rd year in a
row we jumped over the 16,000 mark.. Since
1999 you have set a record for the most in a
year. Before that every year in our 35 year
history you set a record. There are several basic
reasons. First of all, there are more of you.
There are more chapters; we are expanding,
drawing in more muskie nuts. You are getting
more efficient at your hobby. The third and
final reason is that the fish managers in many
states are getting better at introducing muskies
to good waters and letting us enjoy their
efforts. As we speak we have members in
Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky,
Pennsylvania, Ohio and several other states
fishing muskies during this warm weather.
2006 will probably be another record setter.
Four Chapters reported more than 1000
entries. Fargo Moorhead had the most with
1556, Capital City with 1280, Three Rivers
with 1097 and Headwaters with 1032. As you
browse the winners of the International
Contest Awards you need to understand
something. We have some very dedicated
people.
When you look at the winners in the
different divisions a story lies behind each one.
The water each was fishing in 2005 probably
has a lot to do with it. The column after the point totals is the average
length of their entries. It reveals selection of “numbers” lakes in some
cases. For example Will Hardy took 2nd in the Masters to his brother
this year. Will tells me the fish there are stupid. If you want to know
where, just go to our web site, you will find out. Will says you can
catch a particular muskie at 9 in the morning, and catch the same one
at 2 in the afternoon. The deal here is they are catching 12 of its
brothers and sisters in between. They landed a shocking total of 750
between them. It is all about time on the water, lots of small, hungry
muskies as their averages reveals. You also see a junior member with
220 entries. Well the nut doesn’t fall to far from the tree as Evan Twa
is Will’s grandson. There is lots of interesting information in each and
every case here. They will all come together April 1, 2006.
Annual Spring Awards Banquet!
The awards will be available at the Annual Banquet on April 1,
2006. This is conjunction with the board meeting and fundraiser. It will
be in Minneapolis at the Hilton Minneapolis / St. Paul Airport Hotel.
Details for reservations, etc. are in the January, February, and March
issues of MUSKIE. Most of these 42 point winners and 18 of the longest
release winners will be there. Come join us and rub shoulders with some
of the greatest. It will be a grand and glorious effect.
The Lunge Log
Jim Bunch
ABOUT THE CENTERFOLD:
“Renaissance Man”
by Vince Trotta and Juris Ozols, Twin Cities Chapter
Most of us know of Gil Hamm only as the founder of Muskies
Inc. But that classic phrase – Renaissance Man - soon springs to
mind the more one learns about the many and varied interests of this
remarkable person, far beyond Muskies.
He was a businessman, a community leader, a conservationist, an
artist, an inventor. Our centerfold collage this month gives you just
a glimpse into the man’s life. The things you see come from a thick
scrapbook which documents his fascinating career, from childhood to
his death in 1984. Here’s the story:
As part of our Muskie’s 40th Anniversary Founders’ Project, we
put out a request for anything people might have about the very early
days of the organization. North Metro Chapter President Chris
Cochran saw one of the “Wanted” handbills sent to his chapter for
distribution (see the “Wanted” ad in this issue). The handbills and ad
ask members to help the Founders Project with information regarding
the original fourteen Muskies, Inc. founders. Chris followed up by
making inquiries regarding Gil Hamm’s family. That led to a
telephone call from Gil’s daughter Peggy Hamm Lemmon. We set up
an interview.
That interview is a key event in the celebration of MI’s 40th
Anniversary. Peggy shared her mother’s thick scrapbook assembled
by Gil and Muriel’s granddaughter, Amy Stried, after Gil’s death.
Muriel, better known as Midge, still lives in St. Paul. We have
cataloged and scanned some 150 documents and pictures from the
scrapbook for the MI archives. This Muskie issue presents some of
that memorabilia on its cover and the center section. During this,
our 40th Anniversary year, you will see much more from the Founders’
Project Collection in the magazine. And we’ll also have articles and
stories from the early days of Muskies Inc.
We thank Midge, Peggy, Amy, and Chris for their contributions
to the Muskies, Inc. archives. It is an honor to put together this
tribute to Gil Hamm, who had the foresight to stimulate the
founding and growth of Muskies, Inc. ❖
www.muskiesinc.org
As I See It
by Jim Smith
Sport shows are completed and I am sure everyone had a great
time, saw lots of old friends, picked up plenty of literature and even
a few new ideas. From what I understand the local economy has
absorbed it’s annual income infusion from all you muskie types too.
Nice job guys! Keep those greenbacks circulating.
I have a couple of up-dates for you. Muskies, Inc. is growing
west. A new chapter has been formed in Nebraska, Chapter #53.
Some of you may wonder where Nebraska is. It is the flat spot
between you guys east of the Mississippi and ends just short of the
Rocky Mountains. Or as some of us from Colorado would say, “it
stops at Cabela’s” (Sidney, NE) it actually starts just after the rolling
hills of Iowa. The Officers are Brian Sanger, President Edward
Minge, V.P., Jay Jakob, Treas., Tom & Chris Boldt, Secretary
William Wollesen, Membership, Jamie Schmidt, Programs Chris
Sell, RVP, Bryan Ocander, Research & Release. Welcome aboard to
our fifteenth state.
Wait until you see the March cover. As you all know M.I. is
celebrating their 40th Anniversary this year. Well ol’ Juris and his
drinking buddy Vince Trotta have been doing some contacting of
our original founders. They made a contact with Muriel “Midge”
Hamm who is now in a nursing home. So they have been meeting
with Gil’s daughter. She presented them with a scrapbook that no
one has ever seen. Juris and Vince have scanned over 150 pages of
this scrapbook and have some wonderful history for you to reflect
upon. Obviously you noticed this month’s cover and also the
centerfold. They also obtained a copy of Gil fishing with Festus,
which they are going to digitize for showing at the Spring Board
Meeting.
Our selection committee for the new 3-year printing contract
has gathered all the printing bids on the magazine and is currently
reviewing them. The decision will be made shortly. There were
twenty firms who requested RFP’s and we ended up with eleven bids
for printing MUSKIE Magazine.
I tried a new experiment this month. At the Fall Board meeting
I passed around some magazines with different types of paper. Your
March issue is a straight 60# paper-gloss. Past issues have been a
heavier cover and a 60# interior. This change should save us the cost
of printing on two different papers and also save us some weight thus
saving postage. Let me know how you like it.
I hope you enjoy this issue and I think you’ll see I am trying to
squeeze in more articles each month.
Jim
Jim Smith, Managing Editor
MUSKIE Magazine
The Official Publication of Muskies, Inc.
We work to improve fishing!
E D I T O R ’ S PAG E ◆ E D I T O R ’ S PAG E ◆ E D I T O R ’ S PAG E ◆ E D I T O R ’ S PAG E ◆ E D I T O R ’ S PAG E
LUNGE LOG (Cont’d from page 13)
The only crowds up here
are under water.
Catch & Release
Works!
All the comforts of home
in the Canadian Wilderness.
Accessible only by float plane.
•Home cooked meals
•Showers in every cabin
•Daily maid service
•Outstanding Canadian fishing
by Carl Schwiekert, Sr. &
Emmett A. Brown, Jr.
David Jack with a 50” Muskie he caught
on Lac Seul in July of 1999.
F
or about two decades we have known that catch & release has
undeniably saved many medium sized muskies from a
premature demise. We’ve often referred to these fish as
“cookie-cutter” three-footers. Many studies have shown that these
fish have been caught over and over and over again. But how does
catch & release work on larger fish? Can we catch a “four-footer”
more than once? If there were anyone who would deny that we
could, Carl Schweikert, Jr. would take great umbrage to it.
Case in point!
A fifty-one (51) inch musky caught by Carl Schweikert, Jr. was
recently featured in the November 2005 issue of Muskie Magazine.
This fish was caught and released in August of 2005 on Lac Seul,
Ontario, Canada.
Within a few days of release of the November 2005 issue, Carl’s
father received a call from Flatlanders Chapter member David Jack of
Roscoe, Illinois. Apparently, David got a call from a fellow chapter
member who saw the picture of the fish and told him that it looked
a lot like a fish that he (David) caught six (6) years earlier on Lac Seul.
David and Carl’s father exchanged photographs and phone calls
and soon they discovered that both fish were caught on nearly the
exact spot on Lac Seul, about six (6) years apart. David’s fish was fifty
(50) inches when it was caught and released in July of 1999. Carl’s
fish was fifty-one (51) inches when it was boated and returned alive
in August of 2005. They are clearly the same fish! Both fish have the
unmistakable hooked (perhaps deformed) upper jaw and identical tail
markings. Obviously, this fish was handled properly in 1999 and has
“lived to fight another day.”
We wouldn’t want to take any bets against this fish being caught
again some day.
Obviously, this fish did not grow much from 1999 to 2005.
Perhaps, it is nearing the end of its life cycle. Perhaps, its genetics
have limited it to the fifty (50) inch range. Perhaps it is a large male.
The point is, large muskies can and will survive limited handling. ❖
Carl Schweikert, Sr. is the owner of Lakeshore Realty in Hayward,
Wisconsin and Emmett A. Brown, Jr. is the Executive Director of the
National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame also in Hayward, Wisconsin.
Both are members of the Hayward Lakes Chapter of Muskies, Inc.
The following catch and release
techniques should help the reader:
N
’’SS F
N
NIELSEN
IELSEN
FLY
LY-I
-IOntario
N L
LODGE
ODGE
Rowan
Lake,
Rowan Lake, Ontario
Call for our brochure or go to
www.nielsensflyinlodge.com
✧ When possible, do not take the fish out of
the water.
✧ When
possible, unhook the fish without
holding or touching it. If it is lightly
hooked, this usually can be done.
✧ Unhook your fish on the side of the boat in
a net or a cradle.
✧ When
preparing to take your picture,
make sure that the camera is ready
before lifting the fish out of the water.
✧ Lift
the fish out of the water and
immediately bring it to a horizontal
position. Do not keep it out of the water
for more than one (1) minute, keeping it
always in the horizontal position.
16TH ANNUAL NORTH METRO CHAPTER
JUNE JAM MUSKIE TOURNAMENT
JUNE 10-11, 2006
The second weekend of June draws the finest sportsmen in the region to the famous Muskie
waters of Deer, Bone, Blake, Cedar, Round and Wapogasset lakes and the Apple River Flowage
in Polk County, Wisconsin.
For more information and updates, or to download Rules and Registration forms, visit:
www.northmetromuskies.com and click on June Jam. Registration is limited to 175 Open
Division participants. Registration applications accepted after February 1, 2006.
Never lay the fish on the bottom of your boat
or on any other surface.
SPONSORED BY:
✧ When
handling the fish always keep a
very tight grip on it between its gill cover
and its lower jaw. Keep your thumb on its
lower jaw and not over the top of its jaw.
✧ Sit
down, relax, congratulate yourself or
one another. Then start casting again,
because you won’t catch another one
without a bait in the water!
Winter 1-800-653-5946
Summer 1-807-226-1234
Carl Schweikert Jr. with the same fish, now 51 inches long,
caught and released on Lac Seul in August of 2005
F
& THE NEW REEF HAWGTWIST!
See the TWIST on an old favorite at:
www.fudallytackle.com
www.purefishing.com
www.muskiesinc.org
www.phantomlures.com
40th Anniversary Special
2006
Muskie
Bucks
Get Your Tickets Now!
Muskie Bucks Spring Fund Raiser
Upcoming
2006 ANNUAL
AWARDS BANQUET
FUND
RAISER
International Spring
Board Meeting
2006
Here is your opportunity
to get your tickets early.
Offer ends March 18, 2006.
After that they can be
purchased at regular price.
Muskie Bucks will allow you to enter:
Special Packages
For you advance purchase of $100, receive
$150 in Muskie Buck voucher. This will get
you tickets to be used toward 12 Special
Packages of your choice valued at $200 to
$500+ dollars.
All advance sales of Muskie Bucks will
receive a voucher that will be exchanged
for tickets at the door.
Muskie Bucks cannot be used for:
Cash Bar
Live Auction
Silent Auction
2006 Muskie Bucks Registration Form
Photo Contest – March Winners
by Juris Ozols
s
How big is that fish, anyway? Read on and find out. But our
first winning picture is a striking example of the poser of
photographic techniques. Brandon Bunney from the Twin Cities
chapter sent it in and writes:
“I took the attached picture of my friend Charlie Tompkins this
October on Lake Waconia just west of the Twin Cities. Using my
Canon EOS ELAN 7N SLR with a Tamron wide-angle lens which
I set to 19mm, I proceeded to move as close as possible in order to
help draw more attention to the Muskie by bringing it into the
foreground of the picture. In doing this it seems to help bring more
depth to the picture and ultimately make it more interesting. We
never got a measurement of the muskie but figure that it was in the
low to mid 40’s. Waconia has been pretty good to me in the past. I
haven’t caught any monsters but I have had several days of were I
have caught 3 or 4 Muskies.”
Well, at first glance the Muskie sure looks a lot bigger, at least to
me. But Brandon certainly produced a dramatic photo, one quite
distinctive compared to our usual “fish” pictures.
Then here’s our second picture, one of those classic shots “into
the sun at sunrise.” Jerry Montonye sent this one in. It shows his
nephew Andy Janssen on a crappie (!) trip to the Sauk River. Jerry
took it with a Fuji 400 disposable camera.
Jerry has submitted quite a lot of pictures to the Photo Contest,
and I’ve run many of them in the Member Photos. He has a real
knack for taking shots using the sun as a major part of the picture,
with very colorful compositions, and this is a fine one.
Tips and Comments
Both of these pictures demonstrate what can be achieved if you
put some effort and thought into your photography. Brandon
consciously set out to achieve an effect, and got a very striking photo.
Similarly, Jerry has a certain style that produces those colorful works
of art, and it’s obvious that he isn’t just taking snapshots at random.
Depending on luck to get either trophy Muskies or quality
photographs is one way of doing it. But working at it is much better,
and indeed more satisfying.
I’d also like to note, as I’ve said before, that you can get great
pictures with any camera. Jerry’s disposable Fuji is at the very bottom
of the camera price range, and look what he did with it. On the other
hand, a good camera doesn’t hurt either. I got a Canon digital SLR
last year, and it makes photography even more of a joy for me. But
no matter, just get that camera out and shoot pictures with a bit of
forethought and see what you can do.
This request form allows you to purchase as many packs as you’d prefer. Only
applications received by March are included in this Muskie Bucks offer. Muskie
Bucks have no cash value, they are strictly for use drum raffles, bucket raffles
and special packages. Offer ends March 18, 2006.
New Address: Please update my records.
Name:_____________________________________________
Address:____________________________________________ Phone:_____________________
City/Sate/Zip:________________________________________ Email:______________________
MUSKIE BUCKS (pack of $150 for $100)
NO. OF PACKS ____________ @ $100/SET = ______________________
Please fill out and mail your Muskie Bucks Request Form to:
MUSKIES, INC. Spring Fund Raiser
Please make checks payable to Muskies, Inc.
For more information on the 2006 Muskie
Banquet and Fund Raiser, please contact
Ken [email protected], (303) 688-4954
Muskie Bucks Early Buy Option C/O Ken Karbon
5684 Crowfoot Valley Rd., Castle Rock, CO 80108
www.muskiesinc.org
2005 Photo Contest: Voting’s over. We had 247 people vote
and the clear and indeed deserving winner with broad support from
throughout the organization is Mark Johnson’s photo of that sinister
looking Muskie in the water from the cover of the April magazine last
year. I’ll have a full wrapup next month. Some really interesting
results, but we might have to think about overhauling the rules.
Juris Ozols
March 2006
GUIDE TO CENTERFOLD PICTURES:
Background: The only picture we have of Gil in a boat, seen with
two unknown fishermen. Any help in identifying them? And also
a picture of the very thick scrapbook.
Top Left: Gil’s 1973 Release certificate for a 42 inch Muskie
from Rainy Lake. The scrapbook holds five of his certificates,
but this is the biggest fish.
Top Middle: The most famous picture of Gil Hamm is
undoubtedly the “Muskie Tub” photo (right side). But here’s
another “Tub” picture taken the same day.
Top Right: Gil was also an inventor, among many other pursuits.
This is his own sketch of “Willie Water Saver,” and then the
published ad. Note that this supports his strong conservation
ethic.
Middle Right: A shore lunch, with Gil pictured upper left and
probably Muriel second from right. Who are the others?
Bottom Right: Milburn Stone (Doc) and Ken Curtis (Festus)
from Gunsmoke. Gil took them Muskie fishing and was their
longtime friend. The scrapbook has extensive correspondence
between Gil, Doc, and Festus, and we also have a video tape of
them fishing. We’ll be showing that at the Spring Banquet.
Bottom Middle: Gil’s famous “Muskie” license plate. Note the
Minnesota and not Wisconsin spelling, which has stayed with
the organization to this day.
Bottom Left: Muriel “Midge” Hamm, the love of Gil’s life, in a
1966 photo. They went on fishing trips together often. We also
have a current photo of Midge at age 95. And she is still a
beautiful woman!
Middle Left: Gil Hamm was a very successful businessman in
the construction trade, following in the footsteps of his father.
Not shown: Many other documents and photos from the
scrapbook. We’ll publish those in coming issues. But if you
have other memorabilia from the early days, we encourage you
to share. Contact Vince – his info is in the ad.
“Muskie
Legends”
By Brett Waldera
I
t was a nice calm and sunny spring day. Al Skaar had recently
purchased a new 60 hp Mercury for his Ranger so he figured he
would go chase some crappies and put a few hours on the motor
before the real season arrived. Al never returned home from his
fishing trip that day and the muskie community lost a mentor and a
friend. It was back in the spring of 2003 when Al passed away, but
his spirit still lives in many who met him.
I didn’t know Al very well but I had the privilege of talking with
him from time to time. I had Al pegged for being a quiet gentleman
who didn’t worry so much about having to talk for the sake of
talking. Even though he was fairly quiet, his smile said a lot. Al
always had a smile on his face and he seemed to really enjoy life. Al
had a real passion for fishing,, not just muskie fishing, but fishing for
all species. Al started out fishing and guiding for walleye and bass. I
heard Al had a knack at finding and catching walleyes better than
most. Rumor has it that when groups of friends would go on
outings, everyone wanted to fish in Al’s boat. I also remember
hearing stories of Al’s involvement with the early years of Muskies
Inc. From what I’ve heard, Al gave quite a bit of his time and life to
provide a better fishery for so many of us to enjoy. Al was stocking
muskies in MN lakes even before I was born.
There are a lot of Muskies Inc. members who had the
opportunity to visit with Al at board meetings and DNR meetings.
Al started a meeting with the DNR and Minnesota MI chapters that
basically transpired to the Minnesota Muskie Alliance we have today.
Al also has the Leadership meeting at the spring board meeting
named after him. He was a great man in the muskie community and
continues to be deeply missed.
After a few of the Fargo-Moorhead Chapter’s meetings without
Al’s presence, I was thinking how could the Fargo-Moorhead
Chapter honor a man who gave us all so much? This is when I put
two and two together. You see, I have the privilege of working with
a wildlife artist named Greg Nelson. Greg is an artist who turned
professional back in 1982. Greg has been known for his attention to
detail. Among his accomplishments are; winning seven conservation
stamp contests, a two time North Dakota Pheasants Forever artist of
the year, North Dakota Ducks Unlimited print
of the year, and many other awards. Greg has
been quoted stating “I always try to make each
painting better than the one before.” I asked
Greg if he had ever painted a fish before and he
said he had. Greg had two trout paintings
chosen for the North Dakota trout stamp as
well. Then I asked him if he would be interested
in painting a commissioned print for the FargoMoorhead Chapter of Muskies Inc. He agreed
to it, so I brought the information back to the
FM Chapter’s board. We brainstormed a few
ideas and decided to have Al casting a Raddog
spinnerbait (one of his favorite lures) to an
awaiting muskie on the edge of a reed point with
cabbage weeds. We also came up with the idea to
have Gil Hamm, the founder of Muskies Inc., as
a ghost image in the clouds looking over Al’s
shoulder. This is where the title of the print
“Muskie Legends” came about.
We had 250 prints made and are saving the
original painting to be auctioned off when all
the prints are sold, or when the time seems
right.
For the 2006 International Spring Board
Meeting the Fargo-Moorhead Chapter has
decided to donate a remarqued print to be
auctioned off with the proceeds going to the
Perry Smith Fishery Fund. The print will
have a remarque of the original Muskies Inc
logo on the bottom and another remarque of
muskie legend, Frank Schneider, added
looking over Al’s shoulder. I am very excited
to see this finished product. You will have to
attend the Spring Board Meeting and Fund
Raiser to bid on this one of a kind print.
I would like to thank Will and Joe
Hardy and other Fargo-Moorhead Chapter
members for contributing to this article.
The Fargo-Moorhead Chapter has a
limited number of prints left. Print numbers
will be available in consecutive order based
on time of order.
For ordering information, call or e-mail:
Brett Waldera
(701) 298-9032
[email protected] ❖
www.muskiesinc.org
FOUND
5th Annual Ice Out Challunge
Hosted By: Webster Lake Musky Club
March 25th 2006
(Alternate Date if ICED UP April 8th)
Where: Webster, Tippy Chain, Barbee Chain
Time: Fishing - 7am-3:30pm
Food, Awards, & Door Prizes - 4pm.
Dinner: American Legion North Webster
(Chili, Cheeseburgers, dogs and all the fixings, Cash Bar)!!
Cost: $25 per person please Register By March 18th
(Late Entries Must Call 260-385-0623 and Register By Phone.)
Awards: Traveling trophy for chapter (see rules)
Individual 1st-3rd places
Door Prizes: Over $200 in Door prizes (ticket included in price of event)
Huge Raffle with Items from Many areas of Interest!!!!
Mail payment to: Webster Lake Musky Club,
C/O Renee Dolsen 85 EMS W 26Ln
North Webster IN 46555
(When registering please include Name, Address, Phone #,
And Chapter # and email address.)
For further info check out www.websterlakemuskyclub.org email and
comments to Chae Dolsen
At [email protected] or call 574-834-1669 Home Cell 260-385-0623
SEE YOU ON the WATER! WLMC Chapter #49
www.muskiesinc.org
SOUTHERN SPRING
MUSKIE TACTICS
PART I: EARLY SPRING/PRE-SPAWN PERIOD
by Colby Simms
S
pring time muskie fishing can be phenomenal, and this is a
great time of year to be on the water targeting our favorite
quarry. Southern muskie anglers generally experience a much
longer muskie fishing season than northern anglers do. On most
southern fisheries, peak summer water temperatures climb too high
to successfully release these magnificent sport fish, and so we give
them a little break during the heat of summer in the months of July
and August, or at any time that the surface temperature exceeds
eighty degrees, which sometimes occurs in late June or even early
September. Despite this short break that normally lasts about two
months, we are fortunate enough to be able to chase and catch
muskies throughout most, if not all of winter, as well as the entire
spring season. Mild southern winters often yield little or no ice. Many
times, when we do get ice, we can often break through to get to open
water and fish. While the action does slow down when it gets
extremely cold, just being able to fish in the winter and early spring
months is a great cure for cabin fever, and a way to stay in shape and
practice for the fishing yet to come. Staying in good casting shape and
fishing practice is important. This helps anglers stay sharp and always
ready for those shots that we get at big fish. Unlike many northern
states and provinces throughout North America, southern US states
do not have closed seasons for muskies during the spring period.
I spend almost all of the spring fishing season targeting muskies
on beautiful Lake Kinkaid in the heart of the magnificent Shawnee
National Forest of Southern Illinois, where I reside on the water and
do almost all of my guiding. Kinkaid is a classic southern muskie
fishery and a perfect example of the great bounty that the south has
to offer to esox anglers. Both numbers of muskies and trophy class
fish are abundant in this body of water and available to anglers
throughout the entire Spring Season. I’ve employed the spring time
muskie fishing tactics that I use at Kinkaid on many other bodies of
water throughout the south with great success, and my guides have
also had good luck on many other bodies of water using these proven
southern spring time fishing methods.
Weather & activity:
Spring time in the south can mean some truly remarkable
muskie fishing. When the weather is warming and conditions are
good, southern lakes can serve up some of the hottest muskie fishing
action of the entire year. Periods of warming weather with plenty of
sunshine raise the water temperature and increase a muskie’s
metabolism, causing it to feed much more heavily. This is especially
true when stable weather conditions are the norm for extended
periods. During these good times, a multitude of presentations will
work to trigger these active and aggresive feeding fish into biting. On
the other hand, poor weather conditions such as severe cold fronts
that roll through the area, significantly dropping air temperatures, can
send the muskies off to sulk and ignore many presentations. When
poor conditions threaten to ruin a spring fishing trip, we are required
to switch gears and zig instead of zag.
Location:
In Spring, muskies are influenced primarily by two factors,
reproduction and food. Shad are the dominant forage species in
Kinkaid Lake, just like
most other mid size and
large southern muskie
fisheries, and it just so
happens that shad and
muskies make similar
movements during this
time of year, a great
benefit to the muskies.
In the late winter/early
spring pre-spawn period,
we are in search of fish
that are in transition.
Muskies and the shad
Midwest Outdoors Television Host Matt
they feed on will use Schultz releases a nice Kinkaid Lake
deeper main lake type muskie that he caught while fishing with
areas in the winter when Colby Simms. Look at those teeth!
the water temperature is
in the thirties or low forties. Deep, hard bottom breaklines, points
and other structures with rock and wood cover are prime winter areas
when they’ve got a steep drop off to deep open water zones. As late
winter turns into early spring and the pre-spawn period gets into
swing, shad and muskies can be found moving between these
wintering areas and the places where they will eventually spawn. Shad
and muskies will actively seek out the warmest water zones in a lake
or in a particular section of a large lake. The northern portion of a
lake, or the northern portion of a lake section on a large body of water
is the place to begin the search for the warmest water. The northern
shores receive more sunlight and therefore will typically warm faster
than the southern side of a body of water. Look for protected areas on
the northern side. Bays, creek arms, pockets and coves that are better
shielded from strong winds will hold warmth better than wide open
spots that have little or no protection. Additionally, shallow dark
bottom areas also warm faster and retain heat well. As the water
warms into the middle forties, most muskies will move toward these
places. When the water warms into the upper forties to low fifties, the
height of the pre-spawn period has arrived.
During pre-spawn, muskies are actively feeding and packing on
weight that they’ll need for spawning, which means fish that are
becoming increasingly easier to catch. By the time the water has
climbed into the middle forties, the muskies have already put the feed
bag on, but they’ll feed more and more as the waters warm and the
spawn nears. When conditions are good, expect to find muskies
actively feeding in the shallows. Shallow water flats, points and
shoreline banks are prime feeding locations, and often, the shad and
muskies will be in two to six feet of water or even less. Sometimes the
muskies will utilize cover in these feeding zones, especially hard cover,
rock and wood, like boulders, timber and laydowns, but other times
they’ll cruise around and hunt shad in featureless areas that are devoid
of cover. One key ingredient to a prime spot, is a drop off to deeper
water nearby. The drop doesn’t have to be extremely deep, but if a flat
that’s say two to four feet deep has a breakline on the edge of it that
drops quickly into eight to ten feet of water or more, that’s adequate.
When conditions go bad, shad and muskies will commonly slide out
into deeper water. Some fish will travel into water that has thirty or
forty feet of depth or even more, but it usually doesn’t take that much,
just a short drop off for comfort is typically fine. These fish do not
necessarily hang right on the drop, but they don’t want to have to
travel a very long distance to find deeper water when a massive cold
front has rolled through and they want to slide out. Being versatile
and willing to move is a great benefit to the spring time muskie
angler. Check out the deeper areas nearer to the main lake, the middepth transitions zones in between the main lake and spawning
grounds, and the warmer protected shallow water feeding areas where
the muskies hunt shad and will eventually spawn. The fish will be in
one of these zones.
Presentation:
Lure options vary considerably throughout the spring, but the
pre-spawn is the best time to throw large baits. As the muskies try to
pack on weight before the spawn, they’re usually aggressive and won’t
pass up a substantial meal. Big long arm safety pin style spinnerbaits
are one of the most consistent and reliable early spring lure options.
Some things to look for when selecting spinnerbaits includes blade
style. Blades should be of a quality nickel or gold finish. Metallic
blades produce more flash than painted blades, and nickel and gold
produce more lifelike flash than brass or other similar finishes. Willow
leaf blades are slim and reflect the most amount of light. They prey
more on a muskie’s visual attack response. Willows produce a more
subtle vibration and can be burned at very high speeds, which is ideal
when fish are neutral or active. Round shaped blades on the other
hand, like colorados, spin
much slower, and excel when
fish are in a negative feeding
mode. They produce more
vibration that fish can feel in
the water. Other key features
to look for in a spinnerbait is
a quality thick cut silicone
skirt, soft plastic trailer, ball
bearing swivel and tough wire
frame that allows adequate
vibration. My guides and I
choose Original and Monster
size four and five willow leaf
blade School N Shad
Spinnerbaits and tandem deep
cup colorado blade Thump N
Big long arm spinnerbaits with metallic
Shad Spinnerbaits from finish blades like the Original and Monster
N Shads and Thump N Shads are
Simms Sport Fishing Tackle School
great early season muskie fishing tools.
for early season fishing.
Large crankbaits of eight to thirteen inches are also a good early
season option. Choose crankbaits with loud rattles built in to make it
easier for muskies to locate and strike. Large wide wobbling casting
spoons are another underused and overlooked choice. Select a spoon
with a metallic finish for greater flash like the new Simms Sport
Fishing Tackle Rattlin’ Thunder Casting Spoons with loud rattles
built right into the blank. Gliding style jerkbaits can be effective,
especially when the water is still in the thirties or low forties. Last but
not least, is the mention of an old standby, the jig & plastic combo.
Big weedless style jigs are preferred for working heavy cover, but open
hook saltwater jig heads are better when heavy cover is not an issue.
Large plastic curly tail grubs, shads and lizards are top choices, when
used with or without a skirt. Generally, the warmer the water, the
faster the presentation, the cooler the water, the slower the
presentation. When conditions are good, we’ll fish faster, and then
slow down after a cold front has rolled through and dropped activity.
While pre-spawn is the time for big baits, downsizing to small muskie
lures or even big bass lures may produce fish when all other tactics
fail. These smaller baits can save the day if the larger lures just aren’t
producing. In the next article, we’ll discuss the mid-spring spawn
period that throws so many southern muskie anglers off their game.
Location and presentation tips and tricks are what it takes to boat fish
during this time, and it can mean some fast fishing. Good luck! ❖
Simms Outdoors Kinkaid Team Guide Ray Simms
with another healthy release.
D O N AT I O N S
JANUARY
Charlie Sparks
Pat Lloyd
Dewey Johnson
Jeff Bienlein
Alfred Francese
Monarch Tackle Co
William Brabender
Tony Enger
Glen & Rose Marie Gibson
Karl Kurth
Gerald Butkus
George & Donna Pavelek
James Redeske
Kent Lebherz
Larry Sample
On behalf of Muskies, Inc., thank you for adding a bit
extra when you renewed your membership.
– Pete Barber, Treasurer
www.muskiesinc.org
Are You Ready to Catch
Your Fish-of-a-Lifetime?
by Patricia Strutz
ou’ve played the scene over and over in your mind…you’ve
just casted out a jerkbait and there’s a huge eruption in the
water. You set the hook and tie into your “fish-of-a-lifetime.”
We all think we are entirely ready to play out this scenario, but are
we? This summer I was lucky enough to test this theory. I thought I
was prepared for this opportunity; but, in retrospect I learned some
valuable lessons.
First of all, I can not stress the impor tance of being prepared. If
you have the chance to fish “trophy waters” you must acknowledge
the distinct possibility that each cast presents a chance at a big girl.
So, check your line, your leader, your terminal tackle, and your drag
setting. Then re-check them all throughout the day. Sharpen your
hooks. Re-tie your knots. In other words, remember all the basics.
Also, keep a clean boat.
Errant hooks have a way of finding their way into places they
shouldn’t be during chaos. All anglers should know where the release
equipment, camera and first aid kit are at any given moment.
In addition to having your equipment in order, you must remain
mentally prepared, also. Each cast may be the one that presents you
with the chance. Complacency or lack of concentration is not an
option. I know this may sound rigid but lack of focus for only a
moment can cause you to prematurely pull a topwater out of a 50”er’s
mouth before she connects. I’ve seen it all too many times. Remaining
mentally sharp is imperative. One way to achieve this is to continually
study your map. When you find a certain structure that is holding
fish, actively search out other areas on the lake that are similar.
Thoroughly perusing the map and the waters will help keep you alert.
net possible. I know, they are expensive and their sheer size looks
daunting…but, how much is your fish of a lifetime worth? And, hey,
if I can handle this big net, so can you! Practice plunging this large
net in the water and have your partner always practice, too. I
especially like the coated mesh of Frabill’s net. It makes for much
easier hook removal and is healthier on the fish. Folks regularly
comment at how nice my fish photos look (no torn fins from the net
or scrapes and cuts on the body from an uncoated mesh netting.)
Two other pieces of equipment that would be helpful are a cradle
and a scale. For those of us planning on releasing our trophy, this is
the best way to acquire an accurate weight measurement. There are
numerous different weight estimation equations. My fish figured
anywhere between 46-65 pounds! Since each fish, just like people, is
proportioned differently these equations are no more than mere
guestimates. Some fish have a drop belly. Mine was thick and torpedo
shaped all the way down. Weights will fluctuate radically per body
shape. If I had a cradle and scale in my boat, I would have put the fish
in the cradle before releasing her and attached the scale. This would
certainly remedy the weight estimation problems.
Gearing Up for The Big One…
Proper measurements, especially if you plan on getting a replica
made, are important. Again, appropriate nets and cradles make taking
measurements much easier on the fish since they can stay in the water
during that process. Practice measuring fish prior to catching your
trophy. When you catch that 38” this next summer, keep her in the
water (secure in the net or cradle) and practice taking a girth
measurement. Use a one-sided, easy to read flexible tape. For the
length measurement, I like the way I’ve heard the PMTT measures
fish. They put the fish on a bunk board, flip her once (usually one side
is a bit longer than the other because of the crook of the jaw) and
pinch one side of the tail down. Of course, all these measurements
should be taken quickly-with the health of the fish in mind.
Y
Trophy-sized fish require trophy-sized equipment. As a full-time
musky fishing guide in Northern Wisconsin I always felt my boat was
rigged
up
properly for any
size fish. Once I started
instructing at Guide’s Choice Fishing
Schools and regularly started seeing
some “big girls” on big waters I realized
a few areas that I needed to address.
Most importantly: the net. I’ve
always used Frabill’s Power Catch Big
Game. I’ve had the pleasure of boating
hundreds of muskies in that net…however,
this year my boat will be rigged up with a
“Big Kahuna”- Frabill’s largest net offered,
with a 40” x 44” hoop. Why? Because although
we netted my big fish in the Power Catch, she would have been much
more comfortable in a larger net. She thrashed several times during
the lure removal process and I was afraid she’d escape. Get the largest
“Ranger” Rick Krueger in the boat with me. My hubby, Jim Behm,
diligently snapped photos while Rick ran his video camera. This way
I was able to get a nice mix of shots. My fish was so heavy (we
estimate her in the 50# range) that I had to plaster up her against my
body just to hold her. The still photos do not do justice to her
immense girth. The video does.
Think about your photo: take off your sunglasses (however, for
those of us who wear prescription sunglasses this isn’t really an option)
and be sure your hat is not shading your face. Prepare for these photo
specifics before you take the fish out of the water.
Don’t forget the release shots. I think these are my favorite
photos. Quite often we are in “shock” during the initial
measurement/photo taking process and in a hurry to get the fish back
in the water. I love the look on musky hunter’s face as they release
their fish…satisfaction, pure joy and deep respect for the animal.
Lastly, buy a quality camera and practice up on your
photography skills during each outing. I use an Olympus Stylus
digital camera and feel this is perfect for any outdoor enthusiast. It is
“weatherproof ” (virtually waterproof since I’ve had it out in the
pouring rain and sleet/snow storms) and has a wireless remote control
option. I mount the camera on a tripod base on the bow of my boat.
That way, the all important “net-man” gets to be in the photo, too!
Over
ies
7,000 Musk
Released
On Sabaskong Bay
Six-time Muskies, Inc.,
Chapter Challunge Headquarters
1983, 1986, 1993, 1997, 2003, 2004
• Ultra-modern one, two, three, or four bedroom cabins
• American plan, housekeeping or camping
• Floating docks, electricity for charging batteries, Lund Boats with swivel seats
and depth finders, Honda motors with electric start
• Dining room with food and liquor available for registered guests only
Call or write for data on musky catches:
Enjoy the Moment…
Photos…
Make sure you introduce your fishing partner to your camera
prior to wetting a line. They should know where it is and how to use
it. Discuss what kind of photos you’d like taken. Try to get a nice mix
of both horizontal and vertical shots and take close ups! Also, learn
how to use “fill-in flash” and the video option if your camera has it.
Again, I was lucky because I had both my husband and my boss,
When you catch your big girl, everything seems to happen
quickly and in a blur. But, this moment is the culmination of many
long hours, hopes and dreams…be sure to savor the moment. I was
so intent on properly holding my big fish and taking measurements
and photos that I really didn’t take the time to look at her as closely
as I’d have liked to. Later, I said to my husband… “Gosh, I
didn’t even look at her teeth!” With his usual dose of dry wit
he replied, “they weren’t that impressive.”(Makes me wish she
would have sunk a molar into him.)
My point is: carpe diem. Sieze the day. Look at her head,
her teeth, her beautiful magnificence. Soak it all in, this is
your moment.
B i g f i s h t o y ou all in 2006 .
*For those of you who wish to see the video footage of this
incredible fish, stop by Guide’s Choice Pro Shop & Fishing
Schools booth at many of the fishing shows this winter.
www.redwinglodge.net • www.redwinglodge.on.ca
Family owned and operated for 40 years
Your Online Guide to Muskie Fishing
Fishing Reports * Guides * Resorts * Tackel
Presented By
Guide Patricia Strutz can be reached at (715) 477.2603, or
[email protected]
E-mail [email protected] Toll Free 1-888-704-8380
www.muskiesinc.org
Muskie Photo Opportunities!
by Kevin Richards
Photos by Cliff White, Missouri Department of Conservation
Kevin Richards is Fisheries Field Operations Chief for the Missouri
Department of Conservation and a Life Member of Muskies, Inc.
H
ave you ever wished you had a professional photographer in
the boat with you to capture a special muskie moment? I’ve
certainly had that happen on more than one muskie outing!
On the opposite end of the spectrum, have you ever taken an outdoor
writer, photographer, or TV crew along for a day of muskie fishing
but ended up with photos of just scenery and people casting? I’ve
been there and done that too!
On September 29, 2005 I scheduled an afternoon muskie outing
with Cliff White, photographer and art director for the Missouri
Department of Conservation (MDC). Our goal was to update our
muskie fishing photo files with some new digital photos. Most of the
existing shots were 35 mm slides taken during a similar trip I
organized almost 25 years ago with our previous photographer. As
you all know technology has changed a bunch. The new digital
photos will be a big improvement when preparing or revising
brochures, slide presentations, or posters about Missouri’s muskie
program.
To help ensure that we boated at least one muskie for photos that
afternoon I asked a few Muskies, Inc. friends and two MDC
biologists to join us at Lake Pomme de Terre and to fish in the same
general area. For good luck, my 5-pound Pomeranian pup, Pogo,
joined me and Cliff in my boat. It also didn’t hurt that I knew we
had a strong year class of muskies just reaching legal size of 36 inches.
The 4 boats met on the water about 2 PM. The skies were bright
and sunny, the wind was calm, and the air was warm. It didn’t look
like a prime afternoon for Missouri muskie action.
During the first hour Cliff started photographing casting and
“figure 8” shots. I was worried that none of his fine photos would
include muskies!
By about 3:30 PM I was off the hook when MDC muskie
program coordinator Mark Boone landed a muskie and was able to
demonstrate unhooking a muskie in the water and careful release. We
had a muskie under our belts and the photo shoot was a success
Then we actually had about an hour lull in the photo shoot
where each boat had a couple of follows but no hookups. Then right
about sunset we ended up with more muskies than photographers.
MDC fisheries biologist Mike Anderson called from across the bay
to let us know he had a muskie on. Just about the same time I
hooked a muskie at boat side while my dog, Pogo watched. The
muskie was a three-footer and probably two and a half times Pogo’s
weight. That didn’t faze the fearless Pogo who jumped overboard
after the muskie right after this shot was taken! Cliff may have
missed the photo of a lifetime when I asked him to put down the
camera and rescue the dog while I fought the muskie!
Luckily everything worked out all right and Pogo did not
encounter muskie teeth or hooks while in the water. She has
however become rather famous around Lake Pomme de Terre as
“Pogo the Muskie Dog”!
The day could not have worked out better, with 5 muskies
landed during 5 hours of fishing with our professional photographer
on the water with us.
In fact, I’d say it was a perfect day – with a perfect sunset! ❖
Shortly thereafter Cliff captured a really eerie and unique shot
when he captured one of my follows with his digital camera. I’ve seen
this on video, but I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a still shot of a muskie
follow before.
www.muskiebaytacklecompany.com
The day and the excitement continued when Pomme Chapter
member Matt Ginnings hooked a nice muskie, which Cliff captured
in an aerial cartwheel.
Matt’s wife and fishing partner, Sue Ann, did a great job with the
net and the muskie was quickly photographed again and released.
Mark Boone didn’t waste any time and caught the third muskie
of the afternoon shortly after Matt released his muskie.
www.muskiesinc.org
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2006
52
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Special
Events
28
March 10-11-12
Blaine, MN Muskie Show
Chapter News and Views
March 17-18-19
Extreme-Chicago Muskie Show
Phone #
www.muskiesinc.org
March 18
Kinkaid Lake Tournament:
8:00 am - 4:00 pm (Please contact
Manuel Santa Cruz for all tournament
information at 618-610-5003 or
[email protected] )
March 31 & April 1
M.I. International Spring Board Meeting
– Twin Cities
May 20, 2006
Jake Wolf Memorial Tournament on Fox
Chain of Lakes, IL. 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
by M.I. Chapters # 14 & 39. Information
Call Frank A. Walter 847-689-2133.
August 9,10,11
As of right now the 2006 Gil Hamm
Chapter Challunge is going to be hosted
out of McQuoids resort on Mille Lacs
Lake in MN.
October 21
M.I. International Fall Board Meeting
Detroit Lakes Holiday Inn
(218) 847-2121
Questions contact Brett Waldera
Special events listings are provided at
no charge to Muskies, Inc chapters.
To list your chapter's event, email to:
[email protected]
or by ground mail: Jim Smith,
15045 W. Double Tree Way,
Surprise, AZ 85374-8568.
Please send announcements
at least 2 months in advance.
CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS
01 ........Twin Cities, 414 Division St., Excelsior, MN 55331 ......................................952-380-1218
02 ........Fargo-Moorhead, Box 2021, Fargo ND, 58103 ............................................701-298-9032
03 ........Chicagoland Muskie Hunters, 7600 Kilbourn Ave, Skokie, IL 60076............847-677-0017
04 ........Titletown Muskies, Inc., 3097 Inverness Lane, New Franken, WI 54229 ....920-866-9705
05 ........Pomme De Terre, PO Box 5, Hermitage, MO 65668....................................417-745-2381
06 ........First Wisconsin, PO Box 122, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729............................715-726-8896
07 ........South Side Muskie Hawks, 5211 S. Narragansett Ave., Chicago, IL 60638 ..773-581-8650
08 ........Capital City, PO Box 8862, Madison, WI 53708 ...........................................608-669-5046
09 ........West Virginia, 1270 Federal Road, Little Hocking, OH 45742......................740-667-3571
10 ........Heartland, 239 8th St SE, Mason City IA 50401 ..........................................641-424-0827
11 ........Mississippi Valley, 5301 11th Ave “C”, Moline, IL 61265...............................309-797-1803
12 ........Headwaters, PO Box 652, Eagle River, WI 54521 .......................................715-479-1821
13 ........Hayward Lakes, PO Box 609, Hayward, WI 54843......................................715-634-4543
14 ........South of the Border, 28926 W. Big Hollow Rd, McHenry, IL 60050 .............815-385-9026
15 ........Star of the North, 29957 La Plant Rd., Grand Rapids, MN 55744 ...............218-326-4958
16 ........Three Rivers, 119 Bus Lane, Renfrew, PA15136 .........................................724-789-7866
17 ........Quad County, PO Box 185, Plano, IL 60545 ................................................815-695-1494
18 ........Hopedale, 15 Township Rd 125, Dillonvale, OH 43917................................740-769-7269
19 ........Akron-Canton Muskie Maniacs, 1503 S Main St, Akron, OH 44301 ............330-724-7592
20 ........Between the Lakes, PO Box 61, Sheboygan, WI 53085-0061.....................920-564-3226
21 ........North Metro, PO Box 41216, Plymouth, MN 55441......................................952-469-2155
22 ........New Jersey, http://www.mi22.com/...............................................................................TBD
23 ........Cleveland, 5608 Brave Chief Lane, Ravenna, OH 44266 ............................330-296-2398
24 ........Brainerd Lakes, 9143 Lone Pine Road, Brainerd, MN 56401 ......................218-821-3669
26 ........Central Wisconsin, PO Box 263, Medford, WI 54451...................................715-748-2630
27 ........Central Illinois, 1191 Sandra Lane, Monticello, IL 61856..............................217-762-8070
28 ........Shawnee Muskie Hunters, PO Box 602, DeKalb, IL 60115..........................815-756-3231
29 ........Upper Great Plains, 1788 Hwy 4, Estherville, IA 51334 ...............................712-362-2501
30 ........God’s Country, PO Box 1461, LaCrosse, WI 54601.....................................608-786-4062
31 ........Penn-Ohio, 309 Spring St, Jamestown, PA 16134 .......................................724-932-5815
32 ........Flatlanders, 5776 Vesper Drive, South Beloit, IL 61080 ...............................815-389-4622
33 ........Lake Superior, 2031 Hwy. 33 S., Cloquet, MN 55720 ..................................218-879-2712
35 ........Milwaukee, PO Box 28842, Greenfield, WI 53220 .......................................262-789-1255
37 ........St. Cloud, 312 18th Avenue N., Sartell, MN 56377.......................................320-656-1160
38 ........Vikingland, 609 S. Otter Ave., Parkers Prairie, MN 56361 ...........................218-338-5441
39 ........Fox River Valley, 1253 Cobblers Crossing, Elgin, IL 60123 .........................847-741-9771
41 ........Central Ohio, 8494 Fall Gold Lane, Westerville, OH 43082 .........................614-451-0485
42 ........Hoosier Muskie Hunters, PO Box 501371, Indianapolis, IN 46250..............317-577-8050
44 ........Colorado, P.O. Box 270064, Louisville, CO 80027 .......................................720-938-4109
45 ........Kentucky, 212 Linden Ave., Southgate, KY 41071 .......................................859-441-1666
46 ........Bemidji/Cass Lake, 11551 Misty Meadows Rd, Bemidji, MN 56601 ............218-759-0098
47 ........Michigan Muskie Alliance, PO Box 512, Caledonia, MI 49316.....................616-447-1688
48 ........Arrowhead, PO Box 82, Virginia, MN 55792 ................................................218-482-5217
49 ........Webster Lake Musky Club, PO Box 670, No. Webster, IN 46555................574-834-1669
50 ........Penn-Jersey, 372 Kingwood Rd., King of Prussia, PA 19406.......................610-962-0632
51 ........Ohio Valley Muskie Hunters, 211 Mann St., Bowerstown, OH 44695 ..........740-269-1216
52 ........Daniel Boone, 428 N. Wilson Ave., Morehead, KY 40351............................606-784-3933
53 ........Nebraska, PO Box 394, Valentine, NE 69201 ..............................................402-376-2743
CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆
No. Chapter, Address
CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆
48
46
2
CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS
P.O. Box 5
Hermitage, MO 65668
417-745-2381 – Carl Marks
www.missourimuskies.org
Meets: Various days-Call for schedule
By the time you read this, it will almost be spring and
already the members of our chapter will be exhausted
from all the work we have done and be looking for a
break on the water.
We will have worked the Kansas City sports how, the
St Louis Sports show, the Columbia, Missouri sports
show, the All Canada show in St. Louis, a Bass Pro
event and probably something else that I have forgotten.
In January there was an outing to Lake Shelbyville for
fishing in the Kaskaskia River and a habitat event where
we helped a local bass club drop brush piles in a lake.
All of this plus a February meeting.
We are going to try a couple of new events this year.
We are going to do an outing where only trolling is
allowed. Almost no one in this part of the world really
likes to troll all the time but everyone acknowledges that
you sometimes have to do it if you are going to catch
fish. Our theory is that if we can do it all day and learn
from sharing information, we will all be better fishermen.
A second new event is the “Prime Time” tournament.
Instead of fishing from morning to early evening, we are
going to be only on the water during prime time. The
event will start very early in the day and take a break
sometime around mid-morning. We will hit the water
again in the evening and fish until after sundown. This
format will put us on the water in prime time and again
should be a learning experience for us. Stay tuned for
further details.
We have a lot going on again this year. For complete
information, check out our web site
www.missourimuskies.org
Wayne Humphrey 314-878-7732
South Side Muskie Hawks
07
5211 S. Narragansett Ave.
Chicago, IL 60638
773-581-8650
Our meetings are held every third Wednesday of
the month at Mama Luigi's located at 7500 S.
Harlem in Bridgeview, IL starting at 7:00 pm.
Our annual winter meeting was held at Basa Marine
thanking Ron Basa and his staff for their continuous
support and donation of a boat, motor and trailer
package for the past 14 years at our annual fundraiser.
This year, once again we were treated to a
complimentary dinner with great burgers cooked on the
outside grill by JJJ and Co. (John Daly, John
McNicholas and Joel Janecek). Thanks guys….you
ROCK! (And thanks also for not burning down the place
this year!!!). Super desserts were provided by baker
extradinaire, Lynn Polyak; thanks Lynn for your hard
work; all of your cakes were delicious!
Gregg Thomas gave us a fine presentation on the
importance of learning all you can about structure while
muskie fishing. Gregg shared many techniques he’s
learned through the years that apply to any lake
UPCOMING MEETINGS:
February 15
Featured Speaker:
Mike Hubert, Northern Indiana guide talking about
fishing the Barbie Chain, Webster Lake, and
Tippecanoe Lake.
March 15
Annual SSMH Awards and Trophy Nite:
Heavy hor d’euvres served.
Members, please bring a dessert for our always
popular homemade dessert table!.
No speaker tonite.
Members share fish
stories/memories. Large raffle.
April 19
Annual SWAP nite:
Members, bring fishing gear you want to sell and
bring money to buy, buy, buy!
No speaker tonite. Regular raffle.
NEW SSMH WEBSITE- CHECK IT OUT!
Check out our website for up-to-date info;HOW: go to
the MI website, Under Chapters, Click on SSMH
SOUTHSIDE MUSKIE HAWKS
2006 CHAPTER CONTEST
MUSKIES Men’s Master Division
Men’s Division
Women’s Master Division
Women’s Division
Junior Division (12 – 17 yrs)
Kids Division (under 12 yrs)
Determined by inches
LUNKER OF THE MONTH - Largest Muskie of each
month by inches
MULTI-SPECIES - Northern, Largemouth Bass,
Smallmouth Bass, Walleye
- Best 5 by inches
- Largest of each species by inches
SALMON - Kings, Browns, Steelhead
Largest by inches
All Non-muskie awards are annual, not monthly
* UPDATE on SSMH Fish Entry Form Submissions *
Please discard any old forms. Old forms will no
longer be accepted. New forms are available on the
Internet (www.muskiesinc.com) or at our SSMH club
meetings.
All required areas must be filled out and submitted
within 30 days of fish being caught (the 30 day rule). If
not, submission will not be accepted.
Contest Chairman: George Benda, phone: 708-4290526 or email: [email protected]
ANNOUNCING NEW MEETING ATTENDANCE
INCENTIVE FOR 2006
(Includes Feb-Nov. Meetings)
Would you like to win a free reproduction mount of
your best fish in 2006?
Fittante Taxidermy and the Southside Muskie Hawks
will award you one graphic mount for any fish you
register with the SSMH or MI in 2006.
HOW?
Remember to sign in at each meeting
Attend 3-5 meetings = 1 drawing ticket
Attend 6-8 meetings = 3 drawing tickets
Attend 9 meetings = 5 drawing tickets
Maximum tickets you can achieve is 5 tickets.
Drawing to be held at our 2006 December Christmas Party.
If you do not attend the Christmas party, your tickets
will still be included in the drawing.
09
West Virginia
1270 Federal Road
Little Hocking, OH 45742
740-667-3571
http://westvirginiamuskiesinc.org
Meets: No definite schedule-call
Our 2005 Master’s Division Championship was won
by Dave Wenzel by a whisker over defending champion
Lee Powell. Both Dave and Lee had 52 fish but Dave
ended with 627 points, 3 more than Lee. Dave’s final trip
to Lake St. Clair in November when he boated a 48”
proved to be the difference.
Master’s Division Top Finishers:
Dave Wenzel
52 Fish
627 Points
J. Lee Powell
52 Fish
624 Points
John Kaltenecker 59 Fish
476 Points
Chris Hamrick
22 Fish
266 Points
Bill Crane
24 Fish
223 Points
Last month we reported that Bob Hoce won our U.S.
Waters Division for 2005. Bob also was the winner of
our Men’s Release Division. With 45 releases for 506
points, Bob far outdistanced the other competitors.
Remarkably, all but 4 of his fish came from local WV and
OH waters.
Men’s Division Top Finishers:
Robert E. Hoce
45 Fish
506 Points
Chris Burnette
12 Fish
132 Points
Steve Feaster
7 Fish
108 Points
Ray Hensley
10 Fish
104 Points
Ken McCord
7 Fish
101 Points
With a 52” release from Lake St. Clair on July 30, Lee
Powell is the winner of our 2005 Longest Release
Award. Lee caught this fish on a TUFF Shad crankbait,
a creation of fellow chapter member Chris Hamrick. I
know of no other lure on the market an equal amount of
time that has produced as many 50” muskies as the
TUFF Shad.
In addition to releasing our longest fish of 2005, Lee
Powells’ name appears regularly in our Lunker of the
Month listings. Lee won LOM three times in 2005.
Chris Burnette won twice.
2005 Lunker of the Month Winners:
January
( No Qualifier )
February Chris Burnette 40” Dunkard Creek
March
Chris Burnette 41” Dunkard Creek
April
Bob Hoce
51” Middle Island Creek
May
Jerry Miller
51” Stonewall Jackson
Lake
June
Lee Powell
50” Lake St. Clair
July
Lee Powell
August
Shelia McCord 49” Stonewall Jackson
Lake
Lee Powell
September Darlene Kelley 49” Stonewall Jackson
Lake
October
Tom Miller
48” Cave Run Lake
November Dave Wenzel
8” Lake St. Clair
December Robert Simms 34” Buckhannon River
We appreciate the continued support of Bill and
Sharon Crane who donate lures for Chapter Members
releasing the longest muskie each month of the calendar
year.
A big Thank You as well to Farm and City Insurance
Services (which will provide insurance coverage for MI)
for their contribution of $500.00 to the WV Chapter.
These funds are earmarked for the restocking of
Woodrum Lake.
John Kaltenecker, Secretary
Mississippi Valley
11
5301 11th Ave “C”
Moline, IL 61265 • 309-797-1803
Meets 2nd Wednesday 7:00pm at the QCCA Expo
Center in Rock Island, IL.
The Chapter would like to welcome out newest
member Eric Kiddoo.
Chapter banquet will be held on March 5, 2006 at
Omelia’s Supper Club; 2900 Blackhawk Rd in Rock
Island. Cocktails at 5:00; dinner at 6:00. Awards and
raffles will be held following dinner.
The Chapter had a booth at the QCCA Outdoor
Show. Sonny Stevens, Rob Dickinson and Eric Kiddoo
represented our chapter at Breakfast with the Pros
We are setting or calendar of outings for the 2006
year. We would like to hear from you for suggestions
for outings.
We will be having our annual John Hotle Bucket
Memorial Contest spring outing in Hayward, WI on
Moose Lake - Virgin Timber Resort. Spring opener
dates will be May 26-29, 2006. The John Hotle Bucket
Memorial Contest is in memory of John Hotle. This is a
contest between our chapter and lucky Jack . Our
chapter fishes against him and the winner has the honor
of holding the bucket trophy for the year. The bucket
trophy is currently in our display window at the QCCA
Expo Center. We would like it to remain there for
another year.
We will be having a fall outing in Hayward, WI to help
support the Hayward Chapter during their fall
tournament. Dates are October 6-8, 2006. We will be
staying at Virgin Timber Resort during the outing.
In Fisherman will be having a swap meet at the
QCCA Expo on April 29, 2006. More information will be
upcoming in future issues.
We are also looking for new pictures to update our
board for our booth and window display at the QCCA.
We are also looking for old photos of previous outings.
If you have any photos to donate please contact Sonny
Stevens at (309) 797-1803 or you can send them
directly to Sonny at 501 26th Ave.; Moline, IL 61265.
We still have jackets and denim shirts available at
Custom Designs in Monogramming in Moline, IL
Please contact Joan at (309)764-1690. You can bring
in your own jackets or shirts for them to embroider or buy
directly from them. Jackets complete run $70 and
denim shirts complete are $50. You may also have
them personalized with your name for an additional cost.
Joan and Tom will be more than happy to give you these
prices or help you with any other custom embroidery.
We would like to give a big thanks to Joan and Tom for
all their help and time in getting the new design and
colors set for our jackets.
Thank You. Rob Dickinson
South of the Border
28926 W. Big Hollow Rd.
McHenry, IL 60050
815-385-9026
[email protected] or
www.muskiessob.com
Meets 3rd Wed. 7:00 PM at Moose Club, Rt.173,
Antioch, IL. Except March 25th (Sat.). June-Sept. on
Water at Daddy'o’s (Mentone's) Rt. 173 Antioch, IL.
14
With the elections of Officers and Board Members in
Dec. 2005 completed your Staff for 2006 is President
- Len Szulc; VP's -1st William R. Nuyttens; 2nd - James
R. Stella; 3rd -Tom Geryol, Treasure - William Pilarski;
Secretary -Dave Piktel; Membership Director- Jeff
Fernhout; RVP-Frank A. Walter; with Board Members :
Tournament Director; Edward f. Kukulski,Jr.; Youth
Diredtor- Chuck H. Miller. The Chapter started out with
our Dec. Christmas Party & fun had by all. Then in 2006
our first meeting our guest speaker was Tony Grant and
he spoke on " Tiger Muskie Fishing" and anyone missing
this sure missed an outstanding seminar. This Feb.
Meeting our Guest Speaker will be Greg Thomas. I'll let
you know what he talks on next time. The March
Meeting is the Chapters Fund raiser it will be on March
25 Sat. No 3rd Wed. Meeting in March. The Chapter
has there outings set for 2006 and all other Chapters are
invited to fish with us. They are as follows: March 23rd
to March 26st - Kincaid Lake, IL.; --April 5th to April 8th
Green River,KY;
June 10th to June 24th St.
Clair,Onterio,Canada; July 8th to July 22nd -- Lake of
Woods - Morson, Onterio, Canada; Aug. 8th to Aug.
13th. Mille Lacs,MN.; Oct.25th to Oct. 29th Back to
Kincaid,IL. Most of these are durning an outing or
tournament. Last Dec. SOB Members fin clipped 200 10" to 14" Leech Lake Strain muskies for stocking in
Shabbona Lake, IL. Then we pinned 300 10' to 24'
muskies Leech Lake Strain and put in the Fox Chain of
Lakes. This all done in 15 to 20 F. degrees through the
8 inches of ice. Fun we had!
Congratulations to all the Officers elected for 2006;
We all got reelected again. Have a good 2006 Fishing.
Frank A. Walter
Quad County
17
P.O. Box 185, Plano, IL 60545
(815) 695-1494 – Dana Smith
[email protected]
[email protected]
Meets 2nd Thursday, 7:30pm. Plano American Legion
Chapter has had a busy couple of months. Everything
from the Chicago area seminars to our own fund raising
activities had us busier than a one-armed paper hanger.
We can all be thrilled with what we accomplished in
2005 and what we have planned for 2006.
This year’s Annual Seminar will be held March 14,
2006 at the American Legion in Yorkville. Advanced sale
of tickets will cost $8.00 and sales at the door will be
$10.00. The club is thrilled to have two top-notch
fishermen speaking this year. Don Dziedzina and Mike
Hulbert.
Don will be speaking on many different species of
fish. Don can be seen on Channel 17 sports show,
Illinois Outdoors, along with many fishing columns in
local newpapers and many of the fishing shows in
Northern Illinois. See www.illinoisoutdoors.com.
Mike Hulbert is one of Indiana’s top muskie
fishermen. He runs a guide service for lakes in Indiana
in addition to trips at some of the top muskie spots
around Bemiji, MN.(Leech, Cass, etc.). Mike writes for
Muskie Hunter magazine, was a top-20 finisher in the
PMTT, along with many other championships. See
www.mikehulbert.com.
Over a thousand dollars will be raffled or given away.
Doors open at 5:30 pm.
Chapter 17 is having their 21st annual Dick Cole
Memorial Breakfast March 5th at the Plano American
Legion in Plano, IL. Tickets are $6 – adults and $4 –
seniors and children. Eggs, sausage, pancakes, French
Toast, potatoes, biscuits and gravy, and drinks will be
served as all-you-can-eat style.
Tickets to any events for Chapter 17 can be
purchased by calling Mark Johnson at (630) 553-2985 or
e-mailing Mark at: [email protected]
Keep those lines tight and release ‘em healthy!
www.muskiesinc.org
19
Akron-Canton
1503 S. Main
Akron, OH 44301
330-724-7592
http://[email protected]
Meets 3rd Monday 7:00 PM, Tim’s Tavern, 3323
Parkway St. Canton, OH.
The Muskie Maniacs are anxious for the start of a
new year.
The end of December and the month of
January have been the mildest temperatures it’s been in
many years. Most of us have put are boats away for the
winter but those who didn’t jump the gun and kept their
boats out are treated to weather in the mid forties to mid
fifties in hopes to catch their first muskies of 2006.
However, the rest of us that are not fishing are looking to
go to boat and sport shows and special events to fight
the winter blues.
Our club started the season by
electing and approving the club officers for 2006 as well
as our schedule of events. The first event for our club
was to attend a sport show to promote muskie fishing
and information about our club. The show asked us to
do a seminar each day of the event. We also promoted
our Guide for a Day and hosted a Rod and Reel Raffle
to be drawn the last day of the event. Our next event
will be our Annual Lure Auction to be held in February.
This event is always a lot of fun and we are looking
forward to it. Our Annual Awards Banquet will be held
on March 4th. Chris DePaola will be our guest speaker
for the evening and look forward to hear what Chris has
in store for us. We will also have at the banquet a
dinner as well as some lure vendors and a chance to win
a lot of great prizes with our raffles.
I will give more
information about our banquet and upcoming events in
our next month newsletter.
Kevin Proffitt
North Metro
21
P.O. Box 41216
Plymouth, MN 55441
763-537-0781
Meets 3rd Tuesday, Knights of Columbus,
Fridley (6831 NE Hwy 65)
Hello to All! We welcome you to our monthly meeting
held on the third Tuesday of the month at the Knight’s of
Columbus 6831 NE Highway 65 Fridley, MN at 7:30
pm. Our next meeting is March 21st and our speaker is
Steve Scepanick. Steve is a guide on Mills Lacs Lake,
so come and join us in hearing stories and learning new
tips and techniques. Also, March 10-12 is the
Minnesota Muskie Expo held at the National Sport’s
Center in Blaine. North Metro will have a booth, so stop
by and say hi as you enjoy all the exhibitors and
speakers. Further, the Northwest Sport’s Show is March
28-April 2, and is being held at the Minneapolis
Convention Center, 1301
2nd Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55403. Give away days are Friday,
Saturday and Sunday. For more information, the website
is northwestsportshow.com. Well, as we dream about
spring and summer arriving, and how we’ll be casting for
hours, we would like to invite you to join us this summer
for our league night. Our league night’s are held
evenings during the week, and are a wonderful
opportunity to meet new people who love to share their
passion for muskie fishing. This is a great time to meet
new friends and we always learn something from each
other. Finally, the June Jam Muskie Tournament will be
held June 10-11 this year in Western Wisconsin. The
June Jam will on Bone, Deer and surrounding lakes.
Please check out our website for all the above
information and for our many volunteer opportunities
at northmetromuskies.com.
We hope to see you soon and keep warm out there,
Laurie O’Hara
22
New Jersey
we’ll begin selling tickets for the Aqua-Vue camera raffle
and also signing up Guide For A Day clients.
That
event is scheduled for May 13th while the June
Tournament is on Saturday the 10th. Norm small is
now the Membership Chairman and he’ll be calling
anyone who’s membership is up for renewal in order to
provide a reminder and help.
The mild Winter
suggests that fishing will begin early this year.
The Chapter is working on a release contest that will
enable friendly competition while helping to compile
meaningful catch statistics for the NJDFW. Everyone is
encouraged to either participate or at least file catch
reports on the Muskiesinc.org site. Remember that in
order to maintain access to the members’ privelege
section of our site MI22.com, you must maintain your
Muskies Inc. membership. Also keep an eye on the site
for news, meeting topics and presentations plus catch
reports.
Submitted by Gordon Campbell- VP Chapter22.
Central Illinois
1191 Sandra Lane
Monticello, IL 61856
217-762-8070
www.tcimh.org
Meets 3rd Thursday 7:00 PM, VFW club in
Bloomington, IL.
27
The new meeting place for the Central Illinois Muskie
Hunters is the Miller Park Pavilion located at 1020 South
Morris Avenue in Bloomington, IL. The meetings are on
the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. This will
be a more family friendly atmosphere. Executive
committee meeting times and location is not finalized.
Both meetings are open to all. Please contact Jeff Gillis
at (309) 264-3730 for more information.
The 7th Annual Fundraising Banquet will be held on
Saturday March 11th. The location is again at the
Holiday Inn located at 8 Traders Circle in Normal, IL.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Please contact Jeff Gillis at the
above phone number or Loren Nevling at (217) 7628070 for tickets or information.
This past fall the club lost a wonderful member and
club treasurer. Gregg Tichacek was a retired fisheries
biologist with 36 years of service with the IL Department
of Conservation. Gregg was active with our club and
also in the Illini Muskies Alliance. He provided his
scientific knowledge in helping with Project Green Gene.
Simply put. Gregg was such a nice man. He will be
missed.
The club’s fundraising tournament will be named the
Gregg Tichacek Memorial Tournament. It is part of the
Illinois Muskie Tournament Trail. It will take place at
Evergreen Lake on May 20th. Please contact Randy
Kakara at (815) 672-5320 for more information.
A big thank you to our past club president Loren
Nevling. Loren did an outstanding job and is still playing
an active part in the club by taking the club secretary
role. Loren put a lot of time and effort as our president.
Jeff Gillis is our new club president. Our new vicepresident is Duane Serk. Mike Ackley who has done a
great job as release chairman will take over as our new
treasurer.
Our new release chairman is Wild Bill Hetzler. If you
don’t know what Bill looks like. Turn to page 91 of the
Feb./March issue of Musky Hunter. Also, Chris Merrill is
doing a tremendous job as our newsletter editor. Good
luck to our new officers in 2006.
Congratulations to junior member Dustin Sacco.
Dustin released 51 fish in the contest this past year. He
had a fish over 50 inches and placed 3rd in the
International Junior Division. Dustin is 14 years old and
in the eighth grade. He hails from Peoria, IL.
Please check our web site at www.tcimh.org for more
information on our club.
Just keep on pluggin, John Jackson
Shawnee
28
P.O. Box 602
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-756-3231 – Gary Dew
(815) 529-1159
Meets: varies-call for schedule.
http://www.mi22.com/
The chapter has been hard at work preparing for the
Parsipanny Show- our first fundraiser of the year where
We want to welcome all our new members: David
Artrip, Donna Ryder, Jeff Sage, Anne, Haile, and
Nicholas Yenne. By the time you read this the local
biologist Shawn Hurst (fisheries manager @ Kinkaid
Lake) will have received a 60 HP ETEC outboard motor
05
Pomme de Terre
Chapter 07 (NOT is www section). It’s a work in
progress and will improve as Sue learns how to use it.
for his work boat that was donated by our chapter, local
guide Chad Cain and IMTT. Hopefully you will get a
chance to see this on the water as Shawn collects his
data on muskies captured in the fyke nets this month.
The chapter extends a special thank you to Larry
Owens for developing our new web page. Please check
it out @ www.shawneemuskiehunters.org
Upcoming events on Kinkaid Lake: (Please contact
Manuel Santa Cruz for all tournament information at 618610-5003 or [email protected] )
On March 18 our Chapter will host a special benefit
tournament for the Lacy Graeff Caraway Cancer Benefit
Fund for Murphysboro, IL native Lacey (Graeff) Caraway
on Kinkaid Lake, IL. Lacey is 23 years old and mother of
2 children, ages 3 and 6, and newlywed of less than a
year. Lacey has a rare form of abdominal cancer and
severe infection now attacking the brain. Her prognosis
is very grim. All proceeds from the Lacy Graeff Caraway
Cancer Benefit Fund Tournament will be donated to
the Lacy Graeff Caraway Cancer Benefit Fund to help
this young family pay for excess medical, day-to-day, and
travel expenses for treatment. This special one day
tournament from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on the 18th will be
followed with raffles and silent auction items in the
evening. At the time of writing, and not confirmed, we
may have a sponsor who might put up a 16ft. Alumacraft
boat, motor and trailer for anyone who might catch a
Certified State Record Muskellunge for IL during the
event. If you can’t fish this tournament, please plan on
attending the evening activities and fundraiser starting at
6:00 pm at the Mississippi Flyway on HWY 13 in
Carbondale, IL. If you’re not able to make neither, then
please send any monetary donations to the Lacey Graeff
Caraway Cancer Fund, C/O Top of the Hill Bait Shop, 537
Illinois Ave. Extension, Murphysboro, IL 62966.
Our next regular Tournament on Kinkaid Lake will be
held on March 25/26. Our guest speaker for our banquet
event on Saturday night will be Chad Cain and held @
the 17th Street Bar and Grill Banquet Hall in
Murphysboro. Chad will be talking about the proper
release techniques for muskies and even if you are not
planning on fishing the tournament this is a very good
presentation to watch and learn from.
April 22 is our lake cleanup on Kinkaid Lake for the
chapter. Please contact Scott Donovan @ (618) 2015820 e-mail [email protected] to show your
support for this very worthy event.
After our May 6-7 spring tournament please mark your
calendars to attend the new member outing on May 20.
A monthly meeting will follow at 7:30 p.m.
Steve Burian is the coordinating the chapter team(s)
for the Gil Hamm Chapter Challunge event from August
9-11. Please Contact Steve @ (618) 656-7007 e-mail
[email protected] if you’re interested in going
to Mille Lacs, MN.
Muskie Gal Shannon Beaty
[email protected]
29
Upper Great Plains
organization to help pay for the vital habitat
protection on Big Spirit Lake! Once our challenge was
announced the Iowa Great Lakes Fishing Club wasted
no time matching our challenge of $1000. For
information regarding a donation to the INHF Angler’s
Bay project contact: Pete at 712-363-0755, and I get you
the information you need to help out with this worthy
project. Be sure to visit us at our website:
http://muskieclub.com
Sincerely, Pete Hildreth Chapter Editor
1788 Hwy 4
Estherville, IA 51334
712-362-2501
Meets 3rd Thursday , Legion Club, 1709 Okoboji
Ave., Milford, IA.
Mark your calendars everyone! The Upper Great
Plains Chapter of Muskies Inc. will host a free Seminar
entitled “Fishing Heavy Weeds For Muskie”, by
professional Muskie Angler Kevin Dickinson. The
presentation will be March 25th,2006, at the Okoboji
Elementary School, 708 M Ave, Milford, IA. Doors will
open at 6PM and the seminar will begin at 7PM. A raffle
will follow the seminar. A guide on Lake Minnetonka,
Kevin is very knowledgeable and intense when in comes
to fishing for lunge. Come and learn different ideas and
methods to fishing heavy weeds and how you can apply
them to the Iowa Great Lakes.
Until recently, a proposed housing development would
have added 35-50 homes, each with docks extending to
deeper water through the bulrush beds on the SE corner
of Angler’s Bay on Big Spirit Lake. Along this shoreline
grows the largest, best quality stand of bulrushes to thrive
on the Iowa Great Lakes. It provides essential habitat
and nursery for muskie and northern. The development
would have fragmented and ultimately destroyed the
bulrushes.
But now the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, with
Don and Nancy Yarnes, have created an opportunity to
purchase, protect, and enhance 3,500 feet of shoreline
and 93 acres of lake shore on Angler’s Bay, Big Spirit
Lake. INHF will purchase the site from the Yarnes family
over the next two years, later transferring it to the Iowa
Department of Natural Resources.
Board members of the UGP chapter recognize the
vital importance of the preservation of the lake shore and
associated bulrush bed. Therefore, we have donated
$1000 to the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation in
appreciation for their conservation efforts. The UGP
Chapter challenges any person, chapter, or
Flatlanders
32
5776 Vesper Drive,
South Beloit, IL 61080
815-389-4622
www.flatlanderschapter.com
Steve Ruhmann, Pres.
Meets 4th Thursday, 7:00 PM, Loves Park VFW.
Hi, this is Big Man reporting for the Flatlanders Chapter
of Muskies Inc. First off, I would like to start with the
disappointing news. We might have to delay our block
reef that we were going to build in Pierce Lake. Due to
weather conditions, we do not have enough ice to support
all the cinder blocks yet alone all the Flatlanders and
equipment. We will be postponing this until further notice.
On a good note we will be having Ty Sennett speaking on
the 23rd of February. TY guides on the famous Chippewa
Flowage and is very well known in the musky world. This
would be a good one to mark on the calendar. In other
news, we will be having our annual awards banquet at the
Thunder Bay Grille on Saturday March 11th, 2006, please
contact Russ Hoernecke for more information.
I also would like to thank Tony Grant for coming up
and giving a great presentation at our last meeting. He
did a nice show about huge tigers in Wisconsin and even
Minnesota; he even touched a little bit on the proven
producers for Cave Run Lake in Kentucky. I know that he
made me want to drive down there right now and start
casting.
In the month of March we will be having Dennis Radloff
of southern Wisconsin, you might have seen him on John
Gilespies Waters and Woods show catching that huge 53
inch musky. This should be a good speaker for the month
of March, to get everyone ready for the open water
season coming soon. I know I can’t wait till May comes so
I can start casting for the almighty musky again. Well
that’s all I have for now, stay in tune for more info.
www.muskiesinc.org
39
1253 Cobblers Crossing, Elgin, IL 601230
847-741-9771 – Rich Gallagher
www.frvmuskie.com
Meets: 2nd Wed (Exc June/July) Poplar Creek Country
Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates, IL.
Hello All. Believe it or not Spring is not far away. I know
that to be true because the cover is off the boat, batteries
are in and charged, gear stowed and ready to go. Our
first club outing of the year is right around the corner.
March 11th. And 12th. We will be on Lake Kincaid looking
for some Spring Muskie down South! If you are unable to
make this outing then hopefully you can get down to
Shelbyville in March for the outing on the 21st. and 22nd.
The Saturday following that will be the Spring Challunge
on the Chain. More than enough chances to get out on
the water. Come on, we have been waiting all winter for
this. It is time to be on the water again!
In the near future check here, the web site and the
newsletter for details on the FRV Summer Fishing
League. We have come with a little different twist in place
of our Summer on the water meetings. Hopefully you will
find this format more appealing for both the fishing times
and a some “friendly” competition.
We are happy to have Gregg Thomas with us this
month as our speaker. Look for Mike Hulbert in April. In
May will be the ever popular Pizza Night and Pool Demo
at the Dundee Park District. Be sure to be with us for this
meeting. After everyone gets their fill of pizza we adjourn
to the pool area. At least fifteen different lure
manufactures will be on hand to show their product. Bring
a few extra dollars as you will be able to buy any of the
baits shown after the demo. As mentioned above June
and July will be the Summer Fishing League. Looking to
late Summer and beyond we will be hearing from Ron
Fulk (Lakes Shabbona and Shelbyville), Dennis Radloff
(Green Bay Muskies), Steve Jonesi (Minnesota Muskies)
and Donnie Hunt on Eagle Lake Muskies. Stay tuned
here, the web site and the newsletter for the meeting
months they will be joining us.
We hope to see you Saturday April 29th. For the
Spring Challunge on The Chain. I have told you before
this is really a great day of fishing fun and camaraderie.
Cash payouts to tenth place, big fish pool, a great meal
and beverages at the end of fishing and two tables worth
of terrific prizes for the raffle. All just a bit North of your
backyard! Take a day and give it a go. We are sure you
will have an enjoyable time and maybe take home a few
bucks or prizes to boot!
Our regular club meeting dates are the second
Wednesday of the month. The Poplar Creek Country
Club is most gracious in providing us with great
accommodations. They also provide us with a great
Buffet style dinner starting at six p.m. before the 7:30
p.m. meeting. Check the website the week before the
meeting for info on what the meal will be.
Until Later, Return ‘em to the water Health
and Remember Our Troops. JT
41
muskie bite here in Ohio. How many springs in a row can
we have trashed lakes due to high water? I’m really
excited about the club making a big road trip down to
Caesar’s Creek Lake to shake the muskies up a bit.
We’ve got the people and the know how to get it done
down there. Some of those original muskies will be
starting to die of old age without seeing the inside of a
Beckman or a Frabill. Many of the younger only see the
latest hot bass lures. Don’t forget our first tournament!
Event Date: April 29th and April 30th, 2006
Event Name: Jon Fisher Tournament at Clear Fork
Contact: Jack Worline - Tournament Director
email: jackworline@wowwaycom
Elmer
Hoosier Muskie Hunters
42
P.O. Box 501371
indianapolis, IN 46250
317-577-8050
With the 2005 Muskie Symposium in the rear view
mirror, the Hoosier Muskie Hunters have finally had time
to catch their breath.
As spring approaches, the Hoosier Muskie Hunters
can’t wait to get at the Lake Webster Muskies. In case
you haven’t heard, a recent density study has determined
Lake Webster currently holds almost seven, that’s
right, almost seven (6.64) 27” or larger Muskie per acre.
The Indiana PIT Tag Program (Passive Integrated
Transponders Tag), which is funded by the Hoosier
Muskie Hunters, resulted in over 800 Lake Webster
Muskies being implanted with PIT Tags in 2005. The
Indiana Department of Natural Resources hopes to
implant another 500+ PIT Tags into Lake Webster
Muskies in 2006.
The first half of 2006 will be busy with visits from Pete
Mania (for our 10th Anniversary celebration in January),
Mike Hulbert (speaking at the Indianapolis Boat Sport &
Travel Show Hog Trough in February) Tony Grant, and our
Bass lake Outing (in March), Larry Ramsell, and our Guide
For a Day Program (in April), and Jim Saric’s appearance
at the May Indiana Muskie Classic will cap things off.
The Hoosier Muskie Hunters are also planning their
first annual Canadian Muskie Hunt (August 5th to 12th,
2006) .The Hunt will base out of Sioux Narrows, Ontario,
on famous Whitefish Bay, Lake of the Woods. Come
explore the big fish waters where the Muskie Jaws
displayed at the 2005 Muskie Symposium were found.
Larry Ramsell said they were the biggest he had seen
and estimated it was from a 60” class fish.
Stay tuned for updates,
Tony Gray, President, Hoosier Muskie Hunters
Webster Lake
P.O. Box 670
No. Webster, IN 46555
574-834-1669
49
Due to a mild Winter musky fishing is in high gear as
of January 31 in Northern Indiana. Reports of multiple
fish days are trickling in. If the weather holds out, many
of us will be fishing for the entire 12 months of 2006.
WLMC members can expect a busy schedule for 2006.
Fort Wayne Show March 16-19, Ice Out Challunge
March 25, Guide for a day April 29, First Cash Tourney
June 3. Also expect dates to be released for a league
format. This will an informal format for members to get
together for a few hours each week. The Chicago Musky
Show was a great time for those of us that made the trip.
Lots of tackle, gear, and very informal seminars.
Greg Dini [email protected]
Resource Section
FOR SALE:
2000 Honda BF130AYLA Outboard, #1008303, 152 Hours.
Purchased 03/16/2001. Controls, control cables, wiring and
guages included, $5,500.00. This motor is covered by a
transferable warranty for ten years from date of original
purchase.
Fred Wehrli, Pomme de Terre Muskies Inc.,
785-584-6393 • [email protected].
Central Ohio
8494 Fall Gold Lane
Westerville, OH 43082
614-451-0485 – Ross Wagner
Meets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 PM, Buckeye Hall of
Fame Café, 1421 Olentangy River Rd.
It’s the start of a new muskie season here in Ohio. I
have a friend that’s caught two small ones already and I
know several club members have as well. Ah, if the
spring floods would just give us a break we could have a
phenomenal spring season for a change. In Ohio, we’re
talking March and April!
Our January meeting was well attended and we were
fortunate to have Tom Dietz attend and give us a little pep
talk. He’s encouraging the club to continue our good
work and to take advantage of the Ohio Muskie Show to
further the club membership and to help the show and
muskie fishing continue to grow. Of course, Ross
Wagner has been very generous to the club and
encouraging us to do the same thing for years. Tom not
only attended the meeting, he’s joined our club. Once
again, the Central Ohio Chapter has a new member that
brings a tremendous amount of muskie knowledge,
experience and dedication along with him. I sort of
continued with Tom’s theme and discussed some of the
future opportunities the club will have to help contribute
to Ohio’s muskie program. We also discussed the
upcoming programs and the 2006 youth event.
Jack Worline has our tournaments all lined up and we
had a lively (lengthy?) discussion concerning member
participation at club events. I have a feeling that
participation will pick up as quick or quicker than the
www.muskiesinc.org
Fox River Valley
The Way It Was
by Vincent P. Trotta
Muskies, Inc. promotes “Catch and Release,” and has since its founding. MI members have made an
enormous difference in the “Catch and Release” movement. But before Muskies Inc.?
T
his picture is in a collection that one of the original fourteen
Muskies Inc. founders, Gary Bennyhoff, shared as a part of
our Muskie’s 40th Anniversary Founders’ Project. Ray
Ostrom identified Al Dietz, on the left; himself, 4th from the left;
and Stan Hawkinson on the right. The picture was taken at a fishing
tournament by professional photographer Art Tourangeau around
1962, about four years before MI was founded. From Gary:
As I recall, we didn’t try to return the fish in those days. An
old-timer from the Nestor Falls area was in the place when all
those muskies were laid out and he said “I thought we got rid
of all those things a long time ago.” It was customary in those
days (the 60’s) to kill all the legal fish... artificial
reproductions were not available. Our guides used canoe
paddles to maneuver the boats... no one had an electric trolling
motor... and the rule was to kill the fish by hitting them
behind the eyes with the paddle... hit ‘em in front of the eyes to
stun them while the hooks were removed. The guides were
adept at both... and the system worked.
Gary’s recall and the picture may be shocking to you, as it was
to me. However, that’s the way it was before “Catch and Release.”
That’s the way it was before Gil Hamm brought Gary Bennyhoff and
the other founders together in December 1966 to start our
organization.
The people in the picture could have been any of us. They
didn’t do anything wrong. That’s just the way it was.
******
The picture and Gary’s comments stimulated thoughts of my
own about my early Muskie fishing in Northwestern Pennsylvania’s
Edinboro Lake. That is where I caught my first Muskie and a few
more over the years. In my boat, I carried an approximately 15”
long, sawed-off, weighted end of a cue-stick to finalize my catches.
In the 60s and 70s, Muskie heads were salted, sun dried, and, then,
mounted on varnished wood as trophies. It was not unusual to see
multiple Muskie heads mounted directly to the sides of barns. I
recall a barn near Pymatuning Reservoir on the Pennsylvania/Ohio
border that had about 20 mounted Muskie heads.
That was the way it was..
Thank goodness and MI that those days are gone. ❖
If you know the others in the picture, please let us
know. This picture and other material are part of
the collection that is accumulating as a result of
Muskie’s 40th Anniversary Founders’ Project. These
historical data from the collection will be published
throughout the year.
A glorious blaze of green, a sight for
sore eyes here in the depths of
Minnesota winter. Will Hardy and
grandson Evan Twa on Lake
Windermere, Ontario, last June. And
don’t you wish you were there right now!
A boat in distress being towed home? Well,
not exactly. Mike Nickel is “trolling” his friends
Leo and John Nick’s boat, whose own trolling
motor died unrepairably, as they fish from both
boats. They fished for a week this way on
Upper Buckhorn Lake in Ontario with about 35
muskies caught. True friendship pays!
Mike Stinson, fellow member of Chapter 47, took this portrait
of the “Frank” family as he trolled past in his boat. Todd and
daughters Brooke, and Mikayla along with their trusty Muskie
lab pup Justice all seem to be mighty intent on fishing.
Norm Small sent in this shot of his 16-year-old son John’s longest
to date, from Greenwood Lake, N.J on Oct 30 last year, reported
in the log as a 47.5” but actually closer to 48.5. “He didn’t want to
take the ‘longest Junior Release’ title from his 10-year-old sister
Lauren who caught a 48” in April.”
Duane and Joshua (he’s the six-yearold) Halligan went fishing, Joshua’s first
Muskie trip. They got three fish, and
Joshua got twice as many as Duane.
Here’s Joshua with his first fish, a 42+
incher. His other one was bigger!
Gordon Campbell releasing an early season “
Springtime prize” from last year, a colorful 42”
Muskellunge. Only 42 inches? Man, that head sure
looks awful big compared to Gordon’s hand.
☞
for MUSKIE Magazine Photos
including Covers, Article Support,
Photo Contest Entries
& Member Photos
Chad Cain took this photo of Don Dungeon’s first 50-incher,
one of four fish he caught on July 26, 2005. Don is in only
his second year of Muskie fishing and was really excited
about this fish. He fished a total of 30 hours in five days on
the trip and caught 12 fish, seven of which were over 45”.
Michael Winther on a trip to Utah last November, fishing with
his good friend Kent Sorenson. “There’s something pretty
cool about Muskie fishing with mountains behind you.” And
yes indeed, Mike got a big tiger Muskie! Utah has some
giant fish, but is essentially ignored by Muskie people.
Proper Muskie
Holding Techniques
PREFERRED
FOR PHOTOS
Dane Garrett, a new member of the
Shawnee Muskie Hunters, with a 45 3/4”
fish from last December caught with a
jointed Legend Outcast which is now one
of his favorite baits. “Five fish in three trips
- I guess what they say about blind hogs
and acorns really is true. I’ve certainly
found my share the past few weeks.”
Brent Hilbert & Jeff Anderson heading back to the
landing for the last time in 2005 on Mille Lacs on
11/26/05. Earlier in November Brent got his first
giant fish, a 52 x 25.25. “Sometimes, suffering
through tough weather pays off and doesn’t seem
like suffering anymore.”
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Transcription

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