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Innovating the outdoors www.frabill.com • 800.558.1005 P.O. Box 49 • Jackson, WI 53037 MUSKIE is published monthly and is the Official Publication of Muskies, Inc. International Office: Terrie DuBé, You CAN have your fish and release it, too! International Sec., 80 State Hwy. 200 NW, Longville, MN 56655. Ph: 888-710-8286, Fax 218-836-2087. Contents © Copyright 2006 by Muskies, Inc. All rights reserved. FITTANTE TAXIDERMY REPLICAS MUSKIE ¥ VOL. 40, NO. 1 Serving discriminating sportsmen for over 32 years Fittante Taxidermy is proud to lead the way in unsurpassed fish reproductions. We Departments make our molds in-house and offer dozens of different sizes and positions. References 2 President’s Message are available upon request and phone orders are welcome. Serving quality minded sportsmen across the nation is our specialty. 3 Magazine Notes 4 As I See it by Jim Smith Features

6 International News 10 Muskie Fishin’ with Old Man Winter, Colby Simms 13 Lunge Log 17 The Longcast, 20 Photo Contest - Adam M. Glickman January Winners 23 Chapters Up Close: Central Ohio #27, 24 Showcasing our M.I. Supporters: Mike Kanaval Esox Angler Magazine 30 Fish of a Lifetime, 28 From the Archive Jim Roerig 33 Chapter News and Views 39 Fall Fishing on Lake Harriet, Jerry Judson & Patti Jo Slack 40 Muskie Tales by Bob Jennings

42 Member Photos

❄ ❄ ❄ Please note dues increase---effective January 1, 2006 ❄ ❄ ❄ Approved by Board of Directors October 28, 2005 Join Muskies, Inc. ... Regular Membersip: ❑ 1 Year-$35.00 ❑ 2 Years-$65.00 ❑ 3 Years- $95.00 or give a membership Family Membership: ❑ 1 Year-$47.50 ❑ 2 Years-$90.00 ❑ 3 Years-$132.50 as a gift. Junior Membership (Under 18): ❑ $20.00 “The #1 reason I choose Joe Fittante is his artistry. He ❑ For Muskie Research $______is the only taxidermist I have found who can accurately reproduce the true colors and markings of a living Name ______Phone ______Name of Spouse______His painting technique separates him Address______Chapter Affiliation Choice Number ______musky. (to find the number of the Chapter you wish to join, see the Chapter News & Views section) from the rest. That is why I use him exclusively, and City & State______Zip______Junior Member(s) Date of Birth (DOB) prefer his work above all others.” Chapter Affiliation Choice Number ______Name ______DOB ______(to find the number of the Chapter you wish to join, see the Chapter News & Views section) – Joe Bucher, Old Address (for address change only) ______Name ______DOB ______Hall of Fame Angler Capture the moment City & State ______Zip______Name ______DOB ______www.fittantereplicas.com • email: [email protected] My Membership # ______Expiration Date ______Chapter Affiliation Choice Number ______Check One: ❑ New Member ❑ Renewal ❑ Address Change ❑ Gift MAIL TO MUSKIES, INC. 80 State Hwy. 200 NW, Longville, MN, 56655 Email ______3 miles north of Antigo on Hwy. 45 • N4598 Hwy. 45, Antigo, WI 54409 ❑ VISA ❑ Discover 1-888-710-8286 Payment: ❑ Check or ❑ Credit Card: ❑ AmEx ❑ MasterCard (715) 627-7662 • 1-800-261-2327 Card # ______- ______- ______- ______Exp. Date ____ /____ Signature ______www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 1 ABOUT THE COVER MAGAZINENOTES International The President’s Message MUSKIE Magazine Staff Okay, Where’s Waldo? Well, I Rod Ramsell, Editor Emeritus Officers haven’t been able to find him either. If Keith Ogden, Editor Emeritus you do, let us know. So then, MANAGING EDITOR President, Greg Wells by Greg Wells, Jim Smith Phone: 920-457-3720 where’s the Muskie fisherman? Not Muskies, Inc. International President 15045 W. Double Tree Way Email: [email protected] sure on that too, but you would have Email: [email protected] Surprise, AZ 85374-8568 Vice President/Finances, Jim Beaty to figure that with that many people Phone/Fax: (623) 388-3225 Phone: 618-235-3646 wetting a line, somebody might get Cell: (623) 810-9103 Email: [email protected] one. Email: [email protected] Vice President/Research, Ron Mazur Symposium WOW! What we have is a Minnesota winter ASSISTANT EDITOR Phone: 708-458-0055 What a superbly run event. Our hats are off to Scott Law, Kenton Smith and the Juris Ozols Email: [email protected] fishing picture from © Explore Phone: (952) 956-5793 Hoosier Muskie Hunters for their amazing dedication to orchestrating the E.J. Crossman Email: [email protected] Minnesota Tourism that comes to us ◆ Vice President/Internal Affairs, Dick McPike Muskie Symposium. I don’t know how we can thank you enough for your extraordinary ADVERTISING MANAGER “MUSKIE” Phone: 816-436-4909 from Paul Stafford, Staff effort. While Scott and Kenton deservedly receive many accolades they are quick to point Kimberly D Miller Associates K, LLC MAGAZINENOTES Email: [email protected] out that were many that contributed to the success of the symposium. We can’t recognize Photojournalist, Explore Minnesota P.O. Box 543 ¥ Syracuse, IN 46567 Vice President/Membership, Bob Timme everyone (though I wish we could) but there is one group I think we must and that is the Tourism. It has to do with the Phone: (574) 529-0228 Phone: 715-462-3053 Technical Committee. Their responsibility was to call for papers and select those that were Brainerd, Minnesota, Jaycees $150,000 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] presented at the symposium. Those members were: Dr. Cassleman, Jim Diana, Terry Ice Fishing Extravaganza: PUBLICATIONS TECHNICAL MANAGER Sunray Printing Solutions, Inc. Vice President/Communications, David Cates Margenau, Steve Palo and Steve Budnick. Thank you for a job well done. As Scott and 25123 22nd Ave. S. ¥ St. Cloud, MN 56301-9189 Phone: 574-457-3222 Kenton said there were many that contributed to the success, to many to list but a heart felt “Ice Fishing’s largest prize package will be up for grabs as thousands of Phone: 888-253-8808 Email: [email protected] thank you to everyone that played a part in supporting the symposium. anglers take to the ice for a day of fun with family and friends. Youth anglers I have to admit that I wasn’t even a member of MI when the first symposium was held MAGAZINE DESIGN Treasurer, Pete Barber are invited to show off their fishing skills from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. With Sunray Printing Solutions, Inc. - John Windschitl Phone: 847-726-7267 back in 1984 so I can’t compare the two but I have heard that the first was excellent and so was $150,000 in cash and prizes, this event is a can’t miss affair! All proceeds Email: [email protected] this one. I will say that this symposium has heightened my awareness of what MI’s purpose are, ILLUSTRATORS/CARTOONISTS are donated to Confidence Learning Center and other local charities.” Richard Gross Members Only Fishing Contest, Jim Bunch this muskie symposium and future symposiums are at the top of the list. Muskies, Inc. is Dates:January 21, 2006 to January 22, 2006 FIELD EDITORS Phone: 715-723-8343 ¥ Fax: 715-723-8354 committed to being the organizer of the next Muskie Symposium. When will that be? After Bob Chochola, Elizabeth Cratty, Adam Glickman, Email: [email protected] Hole in the Day Bay of Gull Lake asking many of the presenters, tech committee members, DNR personnel and others the Robert Jennings, Mike Kanaval, Colby Simms, consciences seems to be ten years which puts us at 2015. If Steve Palo and I have our way it Brainerd, MN 56401 Patricia Strutz Web Master, Ron Groeschl ◆ Phone: 262-271-1002 would be a weeklong and include fishing. Sounds like a pipe dream, but let me tell you it was (800) 950-9461 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Email: [email protected] a well-received idea. Want to get on a committee? Well here is one that has just started. Colby Simms, Adam M. Glickman, Jim Roerig, MAGAZINENOTES Int. Administrative Secretary, Terrie DuBé So what about the symposium? First I have to tell you that the camaraderie was Mike Kanaval, Jerry Judson & Patti Jo Slack 80 State Hwy. 200 NW, Longville, MN 56655 fantastic, it was as though it was a family reunion and that family was brought together by BUY-SELL-TRADE Phone: 888-710-8286 ¥ Fax: 218-836-2087 their passion for Muskies. The tidal wave of information put me a little bit on sensory over MUSKIE is published exclusively for the membership of Muskies, Inc. and subscriptions Email: [email protected] Coming in MUSKIE Magazine is looking to start a Muskies, Inc. load or was it all those huge muskies we saw in many of the presentations that caused a short come with a paid membership. Muskies, Inc. is Resource Section (Classified ads) each month. circuit? I can’t wait to have the publication in my hands to savor the info over and over. I Next Month’s a non-profit organization. Membership classes At Large Directors Term Expires have to say that listening to Margaret Crossman tell the stories of she and Dr. Crossman was We would like you to send in your ads. We will also and associated annual dues are listed on the include them on our website in a special section for form at the bottom of page one. Single copies Dick McPike ...... 2006 absolutely captivating, what a remarkable couple. We have to thank Margaret for sharing Ed MUSKIE with the Muskie World his legacy will live forever the only thing I regret is not knowing him no additional charge. Cost will be $50.00 for a of MUSKIE magazine are available at $3.00 Dan Narsete ...... 2006 personally. He devoted much of his life to understanding what he called the noble beast. Magazine: fifty-word ad. Plus10¢ per word over the minimum. each from the Muskies, Inc. International (2 column inches maximum) Photos will be Office. One presentation that stands out in my mind is the one about the single hook sucker harness Art Anderson ...... 2006 included for an additional $35.00. Contributors grant rights for M.I. to publish by Terry Margenau. I know that most of us believe this to be a deadly tactic. After seeing this ✒ Ladies’ Issue Jack Moga ...... 2006 once in MUSKIE Magazine, both the print and study there is no doubt that single hook rigs kill fish. Then there was the one about the For information contact Kimberly Miller at on-line versions, including archives and on the Ron Mazur ...... 2006 ecology of an introduced predator. They were disproving the perception that the muskies [email protected] M.I. Web site.

Ken Karbon ...... 2007 were using the severely depleted salmon smolts as a primary food source. What about the ◆ one on the great lakes muskie program, or the study on spawning habits in Georgian Bay? Submissions to Jim Shannon ...... 2007 Like I said earlier, the publication is going to be a must have item. Then throw in some MUSKIE Magazine MAGAZINENOTES Bob Timme ...... 2007 muskie fishing seminars and as Steve Heiting said, “I believe the Biologist enjoyed the Persons interested in submitting articles for muskie speakers as much or more than the anglers” You had to be there, if you were not it Muskies, Inc. Past Presidents Jim Beaty ...... 2007 publication are directed to our website was a mistake on your part, don’t miss the next one. www.muskiesinc.org. There they will find a Bob Osborne ...... 2007 Gil Hamm Lou Cook Steve Statland link to MUSKIE Magazine. From there you Happy New Years will find links on the left side of the page Laura Morrison ...... 2008 Edward T. Peterka Peter Hadley John Hotle I would like to wish everyone a wonderful and healthy upcoming year. I know that we providing information necessary for Don Jahnke ...... 2008 tend to make some New Year resolutions and I wish you the best of luck with yours, but Robert Hill Bob Schmidt Jim Blaubach submissions to MUSKIE Magazine. Further might I suggest that one of all of our resolutions should be to volunteer a little of your time questions will be answered by Jim Smith, David Cates ...... 2008 Robert Shoop Larry Ramsell Steve Budnik Managing Editor. Submissions may be sent to the preservation of the noble beast under the solidarity of Muskies, Inc. to: 15045 W. Double Tree Way ¥ Surprise, AZ Patricia Strutz ...... 2008 Frank Schneider Lou Cook Jim Smith 85374-8568. Phone: (623) 388-3225 or you Karl Scherer ...... 2008 The New President may David Cates was elected to be the next President of Muskies, Inc. Congratulations, Peter Hadley Keith Ogden Paul Framsted Email: [email protected]. David. Let’s not expect David to be a one-man show when he takes over in spring. Instead DuWayne Bakke Bill Davis Perry Smith we need to all be a part of the MI Team. ❖ 2 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 3 In this issue you will see a request to advertise your items in our new Buy-Sell-Trade section Muskie Resources. This, I hope will be a kind of classified section where our members will be able to advertise As I See It their items at a reduced or lower rate than our standard magazine advertising. I hope you all will participate. Proposal Request for by Jim Smith January begins the sport show season and there are certainly a bunch of them around. I am sure most of you will be going and Magazine Publication Firms enjoying seeing one another again this year. Take some time this winter to jot down some thoughts for an Well, first, Happy New Year! I hope you all had a super holiday article or two. I always love publishing articles from our members. EDITOR’S EDITOR’S PAGE season. Wow! Have I got a lot on tap for you this year. 2006 is going They go especially well with our format. Within the next few weeks MUSKIE Magazine will be sending out

◆ to be a great year for us. I want to say how good it was to see so many of you at the Fall requests for proposals (RFP) for publishing this magazine. The current Next, Happy Anniversary all you muskie fans. You’ll notice Board Meeting and Symposium. You all have been like family to our from our cover this month 40 Years of Excellence! 2006 is Muskies, magazine staff and myself. It is especially nice to receive Emails from contract with Sunray Printing Solutions, Inc. will expire on May 1, 2006. Inc 40th Anniversary. The first organizational meeting was held on the Gordon Campbell’s (New Jersey Chapter) of our membership as December 9th, 1966 in Gil Hamm’s office in St. Paul, Minnesota. well as others of you who have expressed your pleasure with We will need to have a printer in place at that time. Sunray may continue Each month this year we will have something from the past. Ed MUSKIE Magazine. Thank you. in this capacity; however, in order to make sure they are still competitive Jackson has gone back in our archives and has some great historical Sometimes we seem to get out and away from our MUSKIE articles. This month you’ll be seeing copy from our 1st Newsletter. family. We’re away on fishing trips and spending time with kids and we are going through this bid process. Each month it’ll be something different. We will be highlighting our family obligations, and yes, we have to work too. The getting achievements over the last forty years. I have some of my authors out together, whether at a board meeting, at a chapter event, with our Any member with connections with a printing firm is encouraged to interviewing some of the original fourteen members of M.I. Those local DNR’s, at a Chapter Challunge or whatever the excuse, just

EDITOR’S PAGE EDITOR’S PAGE request an RFP and submit a proposal for the next three (3) year period. stories and others will be published in future issues. Finally, in seems to bond and re-bond many of us together again. This year in 2006 let’s all of us try and participate more in the activities of our

◆ December we will have a Special Edition of MUSKIE Magazine. If any of you have any old photos or articles, stories, whatever, please chapters and our M.I. organization. We have a lot to offer and we Please call Jim Smith, Managing Editor at (623) 388-3225 or email him at send them along so we can publish them. have a lot to accomplish. I hope you are going to see M.I reaching [email protected] with any questions or to be placed on The Symposium, as you know, was very special and I have asked out to outside groups and organizations and telling our story, rather a number of the presenters to write articles for MUSKIE this year. I than preaching to the choir. Have fun at the sport shows. HAPPY a bidders list to receive this RFP. don’t want to lose our scientific articles, yet I want to do something NEW YEAR ! different than the “Ask the Biologist” column. So I am hoping to Jim Smith, Managing Editor have an article each month of a scientific nature from many of the MUSKIE Magazine presenters. The Official Publication of Muskies, Inc. Email: [email protected]

EDITOR’S PAGE EDITOR’S PAGE CHECK OUT THE 2006 CALENDAR We work to improve fishing!

◆ On the third page of this year’s calendar is an article about the Muskies, Inc. Web Site – 2006. Plus there are 8 Tips to assist you with navigating our web site. Enjoy your MISSION STATEMENT web site and if you have any questions “Muskies, Inc. is an active, service-oriented, non-profit organization with the single focus of contact: improving the sport of muskie fishing for men, [email protected] women, and children. Our mission is to unite all muskie fishing interests for the promotion and protection of a high quality muskellunge sport fishery in the EDITOR’S PAGE EDITOR’S PAGE Leap-R - 51/2˝ The United States and Canada. “Best darn Also available 1 ◆ musky/northern Magnum Leap-R 7 /2˝ Gopher We will accomplish this by supporting lures I ever used!” conservation practices and research based on Augie Machtig Bait Co. Sheboygan, WI sound scientific merit, and carried out by authorized federal or state agencies, appropriate The Gopher Leap-R An Instant Musky Meal – Just add water!TM academic institutions, Muskies, Inc chapters, • Top-water wooden bait • Chrome plated steel Available at: and their members. • Slowest bait in your • Jerkbait Rollie & Helen’s Musky Shop, Minocqua, WI We are committed to the abatement of tackle box The Gopher Crazy - D - Tackle, Elk Mound, WI • Two sizes: 5 1/2’ - 1 oz. 1 • Two sizes: 8 1/2” - 2 oz. & 7 1/2’ - 2 oz. 8 /2˝ Diamond Sporting Goods, Hales Corners, WI water pollution; maintenance of records for and 5 1/2” - 1 oz. Kolar Bait & Tackle, Carol Stream, IL muskie habits, growth, and range; and the Ye Olde Tackle Shop, North Webster, IN DMS Tackle & Guide Service, East Grand Forks, MN dissemination of muskie information to Free Brochure: Gopher Bait Co. Smokey’s Muskellunge Shop, Pewaukee, WI everyone.” and other fine tackle dealers. 9759 Middle Road, Oostburg, WI 53070 • 920-458-4488 Also available 1 Dealer Inquiries Invited Adopted, April 2002 EDITOR’S PAGE EDITOR’S PAGE Visit our website: www.gopherbaitco.com Baby Gopher - 5 /2˝

4 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 5 Pete Barber, Treasurer INTERNATIONALNEWS Winter Escape Adventure: Call for ALD Resumes Fall, 2007 International Board Meeting Between the Lakes Members Host BOW Event All resumés must be Emailed or The International Board will be hosting the first-ever Between the Lakes Chapter #20 members Roy and Pat postmarked by January 15th, 2006 International Board Meeting in Canada the week of Kalmerton once again have teamed up with the international September 27-28, 2007. Plans are for a full week of organization Becoming an Outdoor Woman (BOW) to offer an The International Board of Directors announces our annual At festivities, including fish fries (walleye), a tournament, a fund outdoor skills workshop. On January 13th-15th, 2006, women are Large Director elections. We have five (5) positions open each year. raiser and the board meeting itself on Friday, September 21. invited to join them for a “learn-to-love-the-snow” weekend. These positions are for a term of three (3) years. You will be sworn Caring and Sharing: This the Kalmertons’ (Wolf Pack Adventures) second BOW event. in at the Spring 2006 Board Meeting. Anyone who desires to move We will need lodging for approximately 125 people for all or The first, a Lake Michigan sport trolling weekend, helped gals learn to to an office in the executive level (Pres., Vice. Pres., Treas., etc.) of part of the week. We will need a facility to hold 3 dinners Employers’ Payroll Deduction fish for coho and king salmon. Roy Kalmerton relates, “The future of Muskies, Inc. can only do so as an ALD. An At Large Director and the fund raiser for 125 people. We will need room for all our outdoor sports revolve in getting the whole family involved. If (ALD) has a duty to shepherd the best interests of Muskies, Inc.not the board meeting for 75 people. Matching Charitable Plans women are more involved in fishing, their children will be, too.” Muskies, Inc. needs you help. Each chapter and the International just their local chapter. The best interests of the local chapter lie Any lodge interested in making a proposal for this event The weekend begins Friday afternoon at the Sunrise Lodge in within the job of the Regional Vice Presidents (RVP). please contact Paul Framsted at 303-638-8375 by February 15, are looking to 2006. Budgets are tight. For the International, Land O Lakes, Wisconsin. Hands-on classroom time is first offered magazine, website, postage and operating expenses keep rising. Most Requirements: To apply you must be a current member, in 2006. I can also be reached by email at to discuss safety on the ice, introduce the equipment and how to use good standing, of Muskies, Inc. for a minimum of three (3) years, members look to Muskies, Inc. to provide camaraderie and it, learn about selecting the proper bait and practice basic techniques. [email protected]. knowledge of muskie fishing while conserving and even helping either with an affiliated chapter or as a non-affiliated member.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS INTERNATIONAL Then the ladies are transported out onto the ice on by Polaris ATVs. expand the fishery. Each year, as expenses increase, our ability to do You should submit a brief informational presentation about

Sunrise Lodge is located on famed Lac Vieux Desert, a lake known for ◆ this becomes ever more challenging. We ever had to consider yourself describing your desire to become an ALD. This brief ◆ it’s tiger muskies and jumbo perch. Participants will learn how to use reducing the number of issues of the magazine. This has been tabled biography should not exceed 300 words and should describe such Rob Ramirez Held the Hot Ticket

Jiffy ice augers and set up tip-ups. After a few hours of fishing, the INTERNATIONALNEWS until we see how 2006 revenue come in. At the fall board meeting, group will head to nearby Holiday Lodge for dinner. things as your current and past activities for M.I., fishing skills, Roberto Ramirez of Commerce, Michigan Wins the M.I. Boat 2006 dues were increased $5 across the board. Nearly all of this is Saturday morning begins with a hearty breakfast and a cross- community involvement, reasons why you should be considered for Raffle. Rob found the posting on the boat raffle from the Muskies, going to the chapters. For most chapters, this is not enough to offset country ski trip up to the Ottawa National Forest in Watersmeet, this position, goals and ideas you wish to bring to the board, etc. In Inc. website and mailed a check to enter the raffle earlier this year. increased expenses. Each month, we are grateful to those members Michigan. BOW instructors will lead the ladies on an interpretative other words whatever you feel is important for members to support He is not a member of Muskies, Inc., and primarily fishes for bass in making additional donations when they renew their memberships. As adventure. Later, they will stop at the Ottawa Visitor’s Center to and vote for you. This brief document should be Emailed in word his spare time. important as these donations are, they do not cover the increased check out the educational displays and extensive gift shop that offers format and mailed as an attachment for possible publication in Margaret Crossman pulled the winning ticket at the Dr. E. J. costs. We do need your help during this holiday season and a variety of northwoods gifts. MUSKIE Magazine. Crossman Muskie Symposium in Indianapolis, IN this weekend. throughout the year. Back to Lac Vieux Desert, the group will spend the afternoon You will be expected to attend all spring and fall board Congratulations to Rob for being the winner of the special Many employers offer payroll deduction plans for their fishing in comfort. Frabill Ice Shelters, complete with padded swivel meetings. For any ALD needing assistance there is up to a $200.00 edition Muskies, Inc. 2005 Triton TR-186 Bass Boat, and a large employees’ charitable donations. Often, employers match your seats will be set up. “The Wolf Pack” will teach the gals how to jig for per meeting reimbursement (less any other reimbursements). thank you to all the chapters, members and individuals that have bluegills, perch, crappies and walleyes using a Frabill Panfish Popper donation. Muskies, Inc. is a non-profit organization (IRC 501(c)(3)) You will be assigned committee management duties by the contributed to the fundraiser. ❖ Micro-Light jigging rod/reel combination. Coleman portable heaters eligible to receive these funds. Further, when you make a donation president and expected to actively participate at an in-depth level. through payroll deduction, it is tax deductible for you. We ask that if will keep everyone toasty warm. The Kalmertons have taken care of Although not mandatory it is strongly advised that you have your employer offers a payroll deduction plan, please consider listing every detail…they’ve even designed a heated outhouse! The women computer skills and an Email address. Muskies, Inc. as a recipient. Your tax deductible donation of $5 or will learn how to use electronics as they watch a fish approaching their Submissions: Email your 300 word biography to $10 per week would greatly help us give you a better Muskies, Inc. If bait on a Lowrance Ice Machine. Kalmerton notes that though they ake [email protected] in addition Email copies to: n L L they offer it, your employer’s matching funds would double your discuss conservation and the catch and release ethic, they are glad to a od help. Muskies, Inc. will share your contribution, half to your chapter show the gals how to fillet up some of their harvest for a fish fry. Greg Wells, President at [email protected] (920) w g

INTERNATIONAL NEWS NEWS INTERNATIONAL Howard’s Grove residents Mike Scharl and Brandon Schelk will o and half to the International. 457-3720 e

also be on location to help guide the fisherwomen. Several Sheboygan R ◆ We appreciate your consideration this holiday season. If you have Dick McPike, Vice President Internal Affairs

◆ companies have donated to the event including Miesfeld’s Meat Market any questions or need to provide information or documentation to [email protected] (816) 436-4909 your employer, please e-mail me at [email protected] or call me (foot-long hotdogs and Sheboygan hard rolls) and Torke Coffee. Hot INTERNATIONALNEWS at (847)726-7267. You may, also, call our toll free number (888)710- cocoa, granola, decks of cards and cribbage boards will add to the fun. Please include your address, phone numbers, and Email address 8286 and leave a message for me to call you back. Again, thank you After an afternoon on the ice, a steak or marinated chicken breast in your resume. dinner will be served at the Sunrise Lodge. Evening fishing option for for including Muskies, Inc. in your thoughts. walleyes is available, or the gals can choose to relax after a full day. Rowan Lake is known for Sunday morning participants are free to choose their own itinerary. DONATIONS Instructors will be available for fishing and skiing, or they may shop World Class Muskie more or relax more! MEMBERS NOTICE NOVEMBER Land O Lakes is located approximately 5-1/2 hours away from Box 363, Emo, Ontario P0W1E0 Milwaukee and Minneapolis. Registration fee is $359 and includes Dan Schwartz Tim Brandon Joe Braun Friday and Saturday lodging, five meals, ice fishing instruction and Members are asked to please go to: 807-226-1209 Jim L. Kin Richard Olenoski Ryan Mackowiak use of all fishing equipment, ski instruction, nature guides, evening Loren Flom & Family Benjamin Paff Barry Lobody programs, snacks and fun. Participants are responsible for the Friday www.muskiesinc.org Can’t reach us? Try Steve Sorensen Charlie Sparks Joseph Kalisz & evening dinner, fishing license, ski rental and any general spending 807-487-2400 money. Tips ($5-$30 per person) for fishing guides are appreciated. and check on the "members only" side, Open Late John S. Jackson & Thomas Minett Family Open Early To chase away the winter doldrums while learning new outdoor For Muskie Family Ken & Betty Karbon and hit the "My Member Info" button Tony Parise skills, contact Peggy Farrell, Assistant Director of Becoming an For Lake Trout and update their member information, www.rowanlakelodge.com On behalf of Muskies, Inc., thank you for adding a bit Outdoors-Woman at (715) 346-4681 or toll free at (977) 269.6626 or via email: [email protected]. extra when you renewed your membership. including their e-mail address.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS NEWS INTERNATIONAL For more information on Captains Roy, Pat and Jerrad – Pete Barber, Treasurer Kalmerton’s Wolf Pack Adventures contact them at (920) 918.WOLF 6 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 7 or visit www.wolfpackadventures.com . Patricia Strutz INTERNATIONALNEWS First Wisconsin Chapter Helps Launch 40TH ANNUAL SPRING New Era in Wisconsin Muskie Fishing In November of 2004 Bob Benson and Eric Johnson, members BOARD MEETING, of the First Wisconsin chapter, and Larry Ramsell, Hayward chapter, met with Wisconsin DNR officials to discuss ways to improve the BANQUET AND FUND quality of muskie fishing in Wisconsin. They were concerned that the size of the brood stock being used to take eggs for the Wisconsin RAISER hatcheries was too small, and as a result, the muskies being stocked in Wisconsin waters did not compare well with the Mississippi River strain being stocked in Minnesota. These three guys had done their MARCH 31 Ð APRIL 1, 2006 homework, and after much discussion and a little arm twisting, they convinced the DNR to examine the data including Muskies, Inc. release records which showed that Wisconsin waters did not produce nearly the number of larger fish as did lakes such as Lake Vermillion, Mille Lacs Lake and many of the smaller Metro-lakes in Minnesota. in a tank containing a sedative to calm the fish while they were This was the beginning of measured and fin clipped by local DNR officials. The fish averaged what became know as the HILTON MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL AIRPORT HOTEL about eleven inches, with some of them being more than a foot long. ◆ Wisconsin Musky Joe Kurz, local fish biologist, imbedded fifty of the 500 with a PIT 3800 AMERICAN BOULEVARD EAST BLOOMINGTON, MN 55425 Restoration Project. tag to provide data as they grow and move about the lake. INTERNATIONALNEWS 952-854-2100 After several more Hopes are high that these fish will grow as fast and as large as meetings with Wisconsin www.mspairport.hilton.com expected. DNR officials, the DNR Joe Kurz said he expects the fish to reach 45 inches in seven years agreed it would be a good Mention Muskies, Inc. code INT when making your reservation on line or by phone to receive a and fifty inches in about ten years. This is exciting news for Lake idea to do a comparison Wissota where a fifty-inch fish is very rare. Club members felt the special rate. We have reserved 20 rooms for Thursday night, 60 rooms for Friday night and 75 rooms study, and they developed a $5000 dollars spent on these fish was well worth it. Next year the DNR for Saturday night at a special rate on a first come basis. Special rate available only until March 2, list of lakes where little or no plans to stock the lake with more of the Minnesota strain as well as the natural reproduction was so make your reservation early. traditional Wisconsin strain so that a side-by-side comparison can take taking place. One of those place. Other lakes in Wisconsin also received fish from the Minnesota AGENDA lakes was Lake Wissota, just Muskie Farm including the Petenwell Flowage in central Wisconsin, outside of Chippewa Falls, and lakes in the Madison area in Southern Wisconsin. Other Muskie WI. home of the First FRIDAY, MARCH 31 SATURDAY, APRIL 1 Inc. chapters purchased those fish. Wisconsin chapter. Muskies, Inc. registration Muskies, Inc. registration If this new strain of muskies does as well as expected in the next Although the DNR did not have the Mississippi Strain fish to stock Al Skarr Leadership Seminar Board Meeting in 2005, they did agree to allow Wisconsin chapters to stock these Hospitality Suite Dinner/Awards/Fund Raiser lakes at their own expense, if they could find the fish to do so. Hospitality Suite Other members of First Wisconsin, including Fred Johnson, started calling Minnesota fish hatcheries, and Fred finally got a “possible” order from the Minnesota Muskie Farm, of Alexandria Minnesota. However, it wasn’t until early fall 2005 that the hatchery ◆ called and confirmed that indeed they would be able to provide First Wisconsin chapter with 500 “Leech Lake” muskies as they are more INTERNATIONALNEWS REGISTRATION DUE MARCH 20, 2006 commonly known. November 11th was an exciting day for chapter NAME(S) ______members. Several members of the media including a television reporter, and two newspaper ADDRESS ______PHONE # ______reporters were on hand as the truck with the new strain of ìbaby muskiesî arrived. Chapter CITY ______STATE ______ZIP ______few years, perhaps Wisconsin can reclaim its title of Musky capital of members had arranged to bring the world, as it was known for many years. A huge thanks is owed to boats to disperse the fish in NORTHWOODS BUFFET DINNER $30.00 per person Ð Minnesota Wild Rice Soup, Pan-Fried Walleye, Chicken, the guys behind the Wisconsin Musky Restoration Project, the favorable locations throughout Wisconsin DNR, and all the clubs and individuals who have potatoes, salad/coleslaw, rolls/butter. the lake. Three seventh grade supported this effort. science students from Delong Bob Neidhold ___ TICKETS @ $30 each ______MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: MUSKIES, INC. Middle School in Eau Claire were First Wisconsin Chapter on hand to help with handling Attn: Greg Randolph, 1039 Wedgewood Lane N, Eagan, MN 55123, Phone: (651) 452-1209 the fish as they went from truck to a holding area near the boat landing. Next they were placed 8 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 9 fishing is best in clear water where the fish can get a good look at your temperatures, or you may as well not even leave the warmth of hearth bait. A stealthy approach is best in this situation. Try not to make a and home. Graphite glass composite rods are well suited to cold lot of noise in the boat and keep the trolling motor on the lowest temperature fishing. Shakespeare Ugly Stik Freshwater Rods and Ugly speed possible. Low visibility monofilament or fluorocarbon line is a Stik Lite Graphite Muskie Rods are strong, durable and able to MUSKIE FISHIN’ WITH good choice in clear water. Invisible fluorocarbon leaders disappear withstand big fish in brutal conditions. under water and increase the number of muskie strikes. There’s no reason to fall victim to a case of cabin fever this While I don’t throw in-line spinners or bucktails in the winter, I winter. Just pull the gear out of the closet and head south for a cold OLD MAN WINTER do rely heavily on long arm spinnerbaits, also known as safety pin weather muskie hunt. ❖ spinnerbaits. Spinnerbaits are extremely versatile and can be slow Colby Simms is a professional angler specializing in muskie & bass fishing by Colby Simms rolled through cover and bumped along the bottom, just barely at Kinkaid Lake, IL. He owns and operates Simms Outdoors Guide keeping the blades turning and allowing the occasional hesitation. Service & Tournament Team, offering fishing & hunting trips with top There are a few qualities to look for in a long arm spinnerbait. guides throughout Missouri, Illinois & Wisconsin. Colby also owns and Silicone type skirts perform better on safety pin style spinnerbaits operates Simms Sport Fishing Tackle, offering custom big game lures and than the traditional bucktail hair common on in-lines. Select leaders, including the popular School N Shad Series of Spinnerbaits. spinnerbaits with high quality metallic finish blades in gold and Contact: 573-358-5948 / www.maout.com/colbysimms.htm Brian Duffey with a nice Southern Illinois winter ‘ski. nickel for maximum flash, and the addition of a soft plastic trailer adds bulk and allows uskie fishing with old man winter is a great big game time to try for that giant southern muskie as well. Some of the largest for a slower presentation, ideal in cooler water option in the south. Many Midwestern States in the muskies that my guides and I have raised have been in winter. One of temperatures. Simms Sport Fishing Tackle’s Msouthern range of the muskie world offer excellent the key reasons for this is a lack of fishing and boating pressure. School N Shad Spinnerbaits feature three, wintertime fishing opportunities for the greatest of all freshwater four or five big graduated willow leaf blades, predators. I spend my winters guiding anglers on famous Kinkaid Location that resemble a school of large baitfish During long periods of extremely cold weather with water Lake in Southern Illinois, when most other anglers have winterized naturally swimming through the water, and temperatures in the 30s, many muskies will hold along deep, hard their boats and stored their gear to collect dust until spring. During provide tremendous flash that can be seen bottom break lines and points. After a few days of warmer stable many winters, mild weather yields good fishing for many species at from a long distance. weather, the muskies will slide up a little shallower Kinkaid, including largemouth bass, white bass, Large jig and plastic combos work well onto the edges of shallow and mid depth flats, and crappie, bluegill and walleye to name a few. The Winter fishing requires for wintertime muskies too. Big plastic grubs along irregular shorelines. The warmer the water is, primary wintertime target remains the almighty a very slow presentation and shad bodies work well when paired with the shallower the fish can be found. When surface muskie, but big largemouth bass and big walleyes a quality jig head. These lures can be slowly and lures that will temperatures are in the mid to upper 40s, look for can be taken while fishing for muskies at Kinkaid hopped or dragged along the bottom or swam active muskies to be hunting in fairly shallow water, and other similar waters as well. During most years, provide good action at with a slow jerkbait style retrieve through especially in the afternoon and evening hours on these lakes are accessible during most if not all of the these low speeds. open water out off of structure. Slender sunny days. winter, and if we do get some ice, we can often times minnowbaits like Cotton Cordell C-10 Red Many times in the Broken rock, boulders and ledges hold muskies break through to get to open water. Fins and Long A Magnums and Deep Diving winter, we’ll be fishing on these structures. Standing timber, stumps, lay Because the muskie is a cold-water fish from the Heavy Duty Long A’s from Bomber can be downs, brush piles and other forms of wood cover North Country that’s stocked in the south, these in clear water, and I great wintertime muskie lures as well. Slow make a spot even more attractive. The real key is to great sport fish tend to remain active for longer steady cranking with an occasional pause can usually try to find the locate shallow feeding areas with cover that are close periods of time than most other species. They clearest water available. be absolutely deadly when it’s cold. actively hunt baitfish throughout much of the winter to a quick access to deep water. A steep break line or period and provide tremendous sport when other fish stop point that falls quickly into at least twenty feet of Rods cooperating. As with any of our fish, the muskie’s activity level will water is necessary. Deep water provides security, and in the winter, Tackling big, hard fighting predators in decrease when it gets really cold. While wintertime muskie fishing muskies won’t expend lots of energy traveling a long distance to a the winter presents many problems. When it’s often yields slow action in comparison to the great spring and autumn deep-water sanctuary when conditions worsen. really cold, equipment failure occurs more periods here in the south, the chances of tying into a big fish is fairly often, especially when dealing with a heavy Presentation weight bruiser like the muskie. The key is to good. In this region of the country, some of the biggest largemouth In winter, I tell my gear up right the first time. Rods selected bass of the year are taken in the cold of winter; even though very few clients that when they have to be strong and tough as nails. You have anglers get on the water, and many believe that winter is the perfect believe they’re fishing to select rods and reels that allow you to go slow enough, cut that toe to toe with powerful fish in freezing speed in half. Just because muskies are a cold water fish doesn’t mean that you can get into a couple of feet of water and burn prop baits on the surface. Winter fishing requires a very slow presentation and lures that will provide good Another big winter Muskie. action at these low speeds. Many times in the winter, we’ll be fishing in clear water, and Another happy client with a wintertime Muskie Colby Simms with a Kinkaid Lake Muskie taken on a warm winter day. I usually try to find the clearest water available. Wintertime muskie taken on a trip with the author. 10 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 11 Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log MUSKIE 13 (Continued on page 14) January 2006..... There are only six classifications here. Calm had 50, Slight 102, Calm had 50, Slight only six classifications here. are There always heard. have same light as we sheds the direction Wind We are going to deal with classification here only. That is lure only. with classification here going to deal are We as I really Lots of surprises here story. color is a different Lure who caught a 50 did not relate the time of day. Keep in mind that in mind Keep of day. the time relate did not caught a 50 who 30 minutes from So hour. the nearest off to of day is rounded time to off rounded it is the hour, after 29 minutes an hour until before with 24, next 9 PM had the most Consequently involved. that hour 10 AM 19, 3 PM with 20, 8 PM 20, with 23, then 9 AM was 7 PM slowly, list winds down The 17 etc. 18, and 8 AM with 18, 5 PM fish from you on vacation are some of you that while realize then we that maybe this face reality and we until 10 at night 7 in the morning sent but it is data you is quite possible This as useless. is data classified time of conditions, can tie weather get fancy you if you us. Maybe will You to this and come up with something. light conditions year, obsessed. are because you Wind Speed, Wind Direction, Sky, Lake Bottom! Sky, Direction, Wind Speed, Wind The old with just 1. 2 and None Variable 17, 58, Strong Moderate here. might be reality wind is better than no wind” saying is that “any That is did not specify a wind direction. as 113 reports careful Be This is not earth reported. 32.7 % missing or only 67.3 percent takes a back no wind really shattering information again; however seat. out of the When the wind is out of the east the fish bite the least. Or to argue with this old saying. Here is hard the lawn. It east go mow 20, West 41, 29, Southwest 33, South the facts. Southeast are are We East 22. East had just 4. 12, and North 24, North Northwest fell out of the loop with only 12. kind of surprised that North in that 157 contamination of the facts again here have we Naturally That is a 45.5 us a direction. did not give times a fifty was caught you the less it influence on our data. Never and maybe severe percentage in the game and dead flat are and Northeast us that Southeast amazes the time or are this lawn mower Is out of the East is such a looser. make the call, it is You factor. a real the west winds from prevailing data. your Bait Type, Bait Color! Bait Type, Bait a whole play into this as I have name does not The actual lure type. and do not want to spill it all at once. here bucket of information when the road months down names will come out several lure Actual got Baits Crank surprises here, real 100% completion. No have we a trend to be Seems say go deep for bigger. of you 144 of them. Many in our data. it is proven Look it up, trend. it is a 35 year Yes here. got away we This year with 64. with 65 and Surface is Bucktails Next Surface. from see no difference classification as we Topwater the from That only with 30. Baits with 33 and Spinner Baits comes Jerk Next and Fly. Bait Live 9 for Spoon, leaves due to the That is probably at. what I was looking could not believe have we in here dive we Before did this sort before. really fact I never 220 the data over When reporting major contamination of the facts. when catching a fifty. lure your the color of did not share of you you reporting When 36% of the total. only have Consequently we my data only deals with a primaryhave color and a secondary color, it heard I have the years keep that in mind. Over the primary color, data is Your black or dark. said that color means nothing just so it is White it or not had 22 and believe Orange story, telling us a different else 10. Nothing Yellow 13, and had 17, Silver also had 22. Black with only 2 and famous Firetiger double digits, this include broke Perch, Green, Brass, What does this mean are just 4. with Chartreuse sure Not eyes. to a Muskies just Black really and Red Sucker Purple, Specified. Not in mind our contamination by but keep here

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h All Here! Its Data, Data, Data, t the fifties, Juniors landed 15 of Women that The contest showed is so because that It of day is not high science but reality. Time Muskie season closed yesterday here in Wisconsin as well as most as well Wisconsin in here season closed yesterday Muskie but history for sure, do not know We accurate is this data? How Who, When, Where, Who, When, Where, Time! are Women’s and Masters Women’s in mind 310. Keep 20, and Men combined in are and Men’s Masters Men combined in this figure. This should be no the month. by down When is broke these figures. led with 96, then fishing. July are to when you surprise as it relates with 47. October September with 67 and then 73, August with June with 16, which may follows with 32. November represented is well 13 spread were There time left. still is reporting not be fair as there by down is broke Where May. through February out from number one with 166, Ontario remains Minnesota state/province. 18 spread That only leaves with 27. Wisconsin next with 134, then This WV. QB, and OH, PA, MI, NJ, NY, IL, IN, KY, out between of for the position information is not earth shattering, except years. the last three over and Ontario Minnesota is that 73 of you into the facts here fishing. Slipping are is when you www.muskiesinc.org of the upper Midwest and Canada. It is cold, snow on the ground, is cold, snow and Canada. It of the upper Midwest as the 2005 is time to reflect wrapped, etc. It boat getting shrink Log collects The Lunge bottom of the ninth. muskie season is in the in a while it is time to stop and take a look Once data 365 days a year. at the do here what we This is at what all this information means. This will do. the next 4 months that is what we Log. Over Lunge end wrap up of what everymonth I want to take a look at the year on the mighty long sought after fifty incher. Data is after. one of you a little savvy With site. on our web to all of you This data is available this lengthy rambling as I. In can do the same searches you and sorting hours picking to come summation I spent less than three is nearly every have What we thing sent us. up with the facts that you this to us during 2005. At in detail of the 345 fifty inch muskies sent 345 of them were 15,583 entries for the year, have point in time we of all catches of 2.21 That is a percentage 50 inches or longer. do? did you 50 inches. How exceeding the IRS, high by it has the same accuracy as the records nature says by high 90 driving license records, Each and every90 percent. state’s run the census every our government by years ten Even percent. By the range of high 90 percent. estimated in States, the Unite across mean 99 point something. I am been sitting here we high 90 percent a lot of gut feelings about I have now, for 19 years talking with you seen everything.data that comes in because I have right Looking you safe in saying this data is right there are I feel we straight in the eye, at nearly 217,500 total entries all time, we at 99 point something. So of what want reality You got going muskie nuts. the best thing you are is nothing else. is going on, stick with us, there Still to come...? MN Muskie Expo Full page color ad Full page .....January 2006 12 MUSKIE Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Log MUSKIE 15 January 2006..... www.muskiesinc.org Continued from page 13) page from Continued ( The Lake Bottom is another can of worms that either sheds light of worms that either is another can The Lake Bottom time sorting neat all this out, you summation, I had a really In LUNGE LOG LOG LUNGE or confuses us. First of all our reporting system has structure and system has structure of all our reporting us. First or confuses I did When available. the same selections have They basically bottom. This data. came out with the same the two columns the total search Baits talked about Crank Earlier we found. with what we maybe an issue most was Suspended that the to see here is interesting It and their depth. or should bottom really Cabbage with 39. Is with 47, next was Cabbage with 13. was Coontail with 15, Junkweeds Next it be structure? it said that maybe we heard double digits. I have else broke Nothing point but then what do Good Bottom and Structure. should redesign call here. Tough 210,000 entries. the previous do with we a lot know come out thinking you you do that When we can too. to be Neat here. are That is why we started. than when you more hey. Inc Muskies, a tight line, Keep Bunch Jim .....January 2006 14 MUSKIE

Jason Bond of St. Lawrence River pictured here with his Jason Bond of St. Lawrence River X 26.5 girth = 47.40 awesome catch, Entry # 218533, 54" of the Month leader. lbs., the current November Lunker

Lunge Log Log Lunge ◆ Lunge Log Log Lunge ◆ Lunge Log Log Lunge ◆ Lunge Log Log Lunge ◆ Lunge Log Log Lunge ◆ Lunge Log Log Lunge ◆ Lunge Log Lunge Lunge Lunge Log 41” Muskie caught on back-to-back casts. ◆ Lunge Lunge Log ◆ Lunge Lunge Log ◆

have long been aware of casting competitions that is best to keep your cast short to minimize the measure and compare anglers’ skill, technique, and “unproductive middle” of the cast. However, it was I proficiency with various tackle. Often, The “spook zone” never stated exactly how short the cast should be. I tournament bass anglers use pinpoint accuracy consists of the proximity think that many strikes occur during the beginning achieved with a relatively short underhand flip or pitch of the presentation, because at that distance muskies in which a muskie is are less spooked by your presence. This is what I

Lunge Lunge Log to maximize productivity. However, I have rarely seen anglers concentrate on cast length as a major accustomed to being mean when I say getting your lure out of the “spook ◆ contributor to big game fish success. At times, aware of a presentation zone”. Even in stained or murky water a muskie can Call for saltwater flats fisherman employ what I will call the and an angler at the be made aware of your presence by sound when sight is not an option. If a Muskie uses its lateral line for longcast to keep a good distance from spooky fish, but same time. Therefore, ALD Resumes more often than not their presentations seem to favor effective predation, it uses it to avoid danger as well. subtlety over maximizing casting distance. the longer you make If a muskie water receives angling pressure, and The first angler I remember seeing utilizing the your cast, the less likely most of them do, then the muskies in that body of See Page 7 for instructions longcast, is the professional angler I continue to admire a muskie is to be wary water will know that anything that seems to be prey the most. In years past, I remember watching in awe is suspect if it is close to a boat. And as much as your

Lunge Lunge Log of the first part of your to be nominated for presentation may tempt them, they are usually aware the angler on In-Fisherman Videos who could bomb presentation. ◆ At-Large-Director. muskie lures up tight to shorelines from distances of your presence and they know you are up to no unthought-of by most anglers. The same man on The (Continued on page 18) Hunt For Big Fish could also throw a giant leadhead Each year any interested jig further than the viewer could see for migrating Tarpon. He could member may apply for also consistently hook fish at the ends of these longcasts, and keep YourYour Online Online Guide Guide to Muskie to Muskie Fishing Fishing one of five vacant them hooked. This angler continues to use what I think is the most unique and impressive angling style. His name is Larry Dahlberg, positions as an ALD. Of who grew up fishing out of Grantsburg Wisconsin. Lunge Lunge Log those nominated, five As I developed as an angler, I fell in love with making the longest

◆ cast I could get away with. I have read much on the effectiveness of members will be voted on shorter casts for muskies, but I like a longer cast for the fact that it FishingFishing Reports Reports * Guides * Guides * Resorts * Resorts * Tackle * Tackle for a three-year term. puts the presentation further from the “spook zone” and because it covers more water. What I affectionately call the longcast refers to a Presented By style of fishing that I use almost exclusively, and it consists simply of Deadline January 15th, 2006 casting your presentation as far as you can. I recall reading several articles in the mid ‘90’s that put forth the proposition that since most strikes from muskies occur during the E-mail [email protected] Toll Free 1-888-704-8380

Lunge Lunge Log first few yards of the retrieve and at boatside, that percentage wise, it 16 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 17 THE LONGCAST (Continued from page 17) good. No matter what any scientific study says about the intelligence of fish, adult muskies didn’t get old by being stupid, best believe they know what’s going on. I think adult muskies, especially the older ones, are only caught by fooling them or by getting their aggressive predatory tendencies to override their wariness, neither of which is easy to do. The “spook zone” consists of the proximity in which a muskie is accustomed to being aware of a presentation and an angler at the same time. Therefore, the longer you make your cast, the less likely a muskie is to be wary of the first part of your presentation. So why do muskies strike at boatside if they are always so aware of angler presence? I think boatside strikes occur for the reason I mentioned before: AllCanada.com better judgment is simply overridden by the aggressive predatory nature of the fish. The muskie has been following a presentation that has been doing largely the same thing. However, as the lure nears the boat it begins to rise and/or 40” Muskie using the longcast to keep lure in the “strike zone.” change direction into a figure eight. At this point the muskie either thinks it has a last chance to take its prey before it escapes or the change in action is enough to trigger the strike. Even though this trigger happens at the end of the retrieve, the longcast is essential to this as well. A follow could begin at any point during the retrieve, so to get as many follows as possible one should Plan your adventure at the All-Canada Show. Talk directly to cover as much water with each cast as possible, and this is best done with the Canada’s BEST lodges and outfitters. longcast. Even if the follow doesn’t turn into a strike, it has accomplished two things. It gives you a fish to come back on later, and it tells you that the spot Enjoy and authentic shore lunch with an ice-cold Labatt Blue, fun for has the potential to hold fish. the whole family with hunting simulator, Lil’ Fort Canada, Moose Bay The most important thing to keep in mind when using the longcast is to Trading Company, Canada PAL Services, new destinations. only make your cast as long as you can get away with. What I mean by this is 2006 Show Dates that if your lure is getting fouled by cover such as weeds at the end of a • Minneapolis, MN Jan. 6-8, Convention Center, Exhibit Hall A longcast, then it becomes unproductive as it takes too much time to retrieve • Chicago, IL Jan. 12-15, Pheasant Run Resort MegaCenter the wasted cast. Also, if you are stepping on the toes of other anglers, either • Grand Rapids, MI Jan. 16-18, The Delta Plex in your boat or in other boats, you are being inconsiderate. In other words, if • Milwaukee, WI Jan. 20-22, Milwaukee County Sports Complex you can’t make the longcast without cutting someone off or tangling lines, 43” Muskie hooked 40 yards out on a 55 yard cast This could be you! • Madison, WI Jan. 23-25, Marriott West Convention Center then don’t make it. However, don’t shy away from making the longcast if the over the top of a shallow rock bar. • Green Bay, WI Jan. 26-29, ShopKo Hall wind is putting a bow in your line or if the end of your retrieve has to be made • Cleveland, OH Jan. 31-Feb. 2, Holiday Inn LaMalfa in Mentor dragging behind a fast drifting boat. These changes in direction and speed can The only crowds up here • Cincinnati (area), OH Feb. 3-5, Roberts Convention Center be an excellent trigger, and as long as there is just a bow and no Daily Seminars are under water. • Indianapolis, IN Feb. 6-8, Indianapolis Marriott East slack in your line you should have no problem getting a • St. Louis, MO Feb. 10-12, St. Charles Convention Center Norm McCreight – “The Great” McCreight hook set on the strike. Utilizing the longcast is an • Omaha, NE Feb. 14-16, Holiday Inn Convention Center extremely enjoyable and productive way to fish returns with an informative seminar on hunt- ❖ muskies. Just remember to use it wisely. ing bear AND he’ll fillet a fish with an AXE! More show details at AllCanadaShow.com Sam Hunter – Polar Bear Guide is ‘at home All the comforts of home on Hudson Bay.’ His tales of the wilderness Attractions in the Canadian Wilderness. will capture your imagination. Accessible only by float plane. Get Your Passport – •Home cooked meals Make border crossing •Showers in every cabin Prizes/Sponsors quicker and easier with •Daily maid service 6 •Outstanding Canadian fishing a Passport. The U. S. ‘Locked at Lac Seul’ Postal Service will be at the show taking Grand Prize - $10,000 original artwork ‘Loon Presented by Cabela’s Lake’ by wildlife artist Anthony J. Padgett. photos and passport applications. Don’t See the largest locked antler exhibit forget to bring your certified birth cer- First Prize – is an incredible trip for four to the in the world – bring your camera! tificate. Go to AllCanada.com for details. Northwest Territories including airfare. Vacation Prizes – register to win a fabulous fishing trip for two to our neighbor to the north. Super Coupon A different trip given away at each show! NIELSEN’S FLY-IN LODGE $ NIELSENRowan’S Lake,FLY -IOntarioN LODGE Rowan Lake, Ontario OPENING NIGHT 2OFF Call for our brochure or go to is VIP ADMISSION www.nielsensflyinlodge.com Eppinger Night FREE Bring this coupon to the All-Canada Winter 1-800-653-5946 Eppinger Lure Show ticket booth and save $2. LIMIT ONE COUPON Summer 1-807-226-1234 (one per paid admission) PER PERSON FF01

18 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 19 before, but a picture needs to have a central point of focus. Here we have the spinnerbait. Photo Contest – January Winners You can’t look at the picture for more than a few seconds without your eye being drawn to the lure in the hand. And as with all of these kinds of photos, the sunset colors and the by Juris Ozols interplay of the pastel shadings give a warm glow to the scene. We all like to linger out on the lake in the evening. Sunset happens every day. Next time What better way to start out the photo contest for the New Year you get the chance, pull out the camera and play around with a few shots like this. Try it both than with a possible record fish? Jim Roerig got one that just might with and without the flash, see what works. It’s an opportunity you shouldn’t pass up. have been the Minnesota state record, a 52.5 x 28.5 Muskie that comes out at over 53 pounds by the formula. We’ll never know Tips and Comments though – the fish was released. You can read Jim’s whole story on I enjoyed talking to William. He brought up my comments about shooting vertical page 30. pictures, and Kurt certainly got a nice vertical shot of William. We also talked about how But we did get a picture, although apparently just barely, taken horizontal shots are often better when you’re taking “scenic” pictures. A vertical shot with by Jim’s fishing partner John Karakash. Here’s that part of the tale: the horizon dead across in the middle is almost always a poor composition. But in the case “We proceeded to cut and extract all three trebles while she was still of this month’s picture, the vertical element of the person makes up for it, and the centered in the net in the water. Once that was done we got the cameras ready. horizon isn’t a problem. Oh no, my camera batteries were dead! Lucky we had two and John’s was Then on Jim’s near-disastrous fiasco with dead camera batteries: Well, it’s certainly working. I picked her up and holy cow she was heavy. John took a couple happened to all of us. But I basically won’t go out anymore without two cameras whenever of quick photos and I laid her on the board. She taped out at 52 1/2 pictures are important. When you’re on big fish waters, and that fish of a lifetime shows inches with the tail pinch and looked like a blimp lying on the board.” up, you need to be prepared. A camera that’s been sitting in the heat and cold and damp The camera that finally – “luckily!” - did work was John’s OEM of the boat since last year, old film and batteries? That won’t do it. Gateway DC-T50, 5.25 mega pixels, set at its highest resolution of The 2006 calendar. Do you have any ideas for picture themes for the months, that 2560 x 1920. John sent me several pictures, including a striking you’d like to see? We’ve got the standard ones of youth and ladies and the Chapter release shot. The one you see here is a very clean photo that certainly Challunge and all that. We’ll do those. But there are four or five months that are wide gives you a feel for the length of the fish, but also emphasizes the girth open as to what we feature, and I’d appreciate getting suggestions (and pictures!) for those. and enormous belly. It’s a nice, tight closeup, and the darkness Great fishing? Well, Kurt did get a a 52.5-incher earlier that day, Finally, the photo contest voting will have been underway for a month when you read provides dramatic framing to the photo. An excellent record of a and William got one just a bit smaller. But when I called up William this. Still time to get your own vote in. To repeat: Every member can vote for the 5 top magnificent fish. to get details on this photo what did he talk about? He kept telling photos in order of preference, best one first. You can email your votes to Our second photo is a classic “sunset silhouette” taken by Kurt me about the “Absolutely gorgeous evening, the ‘inspiring’ sunset, the [email protected], call me at 952-956-5793, or send them to Juris Ozols, 14575 Senton with a Pentax with Kodak 400 film, and shows William way a lake calms down at sunset after a windy day, the whole “up Europa Way, Apple Valley MN 55124. You can also vote on the web - go to Engber at the end of a great fishing day on Lake of the Woods last north” feeling,” all that. Interesting. So what’s the most important http://www.fishingmemories.com/vote/ and follow the directions there. August. part of Muskie fishing? Juris Ozols And how did the photo come about? As they were ready to call January 2006 it a day Kurt and William each snapped one shot of each other, and you see Kurt’s artwork, very nicely done. I’ve made this comment

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20 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 21 Buy your tackle on the net and spend more time putting fish in the net

Muskies, Inc. Chapter #7: Musky Fishing Online Catalog Chapters “Up Close” 10% Free Central Ohio Chapter Shipping by Mike Kanaval Off Big Holiday Sale Back when I was at home watching Miami vice & watching my Ohio, swimming in rivers, lakes and streams including the Ohio sisters fix their big hair, a group of dedicated anglers started the River and lake Erie. However, the proper habitat and water quality are th Central Ohio Chapter of Muskies Inc. On March 25 1984 in not available during spawning season to enable muskies to maintain www.whitecapstackleco.com Columbus Ohio, Maurice Potvin Jr. was elected as it’s first President, their own populations. The Division of Wildlife’s Muskie Program Easy & Secure and Maurice Potvin as its Regional Vice President. The Chapter is goal “to maintain high quality muskellunge fisheries at selected water going strong today with over 150 members and continues to grow in Online Ordering areas” this is accomplished by raising 9 to 10- inch fingerlings at Start Your Shopping Early With These Great Gift Ideas : every way. “Division” fish hatcheries. The current annual target for the This chapter continues the dedication it was founded on today, hatcheries is 17,000 advanced fingerlings and their current record • Many Lure Sizes & Colors • Fishfinders & GPS with Ross Wagner leading the way. Ross has been fishing for Muskies year was 38,130 in 1997. for over 30 years, and shares that experience and dedication to all of Meetings for the Central Ohio Chapter are held on the 2nd • Rods, Reels, & Tackle Boxes • Fishing Line its members. His goal of introducing as many fishermen to the sport Tuesday of each month at the Buckeye Hall of Fame Cafe. They also of Muskie fishing inspired him to start the Ohio Muskie Show 3 years hold a couple of meetings at the Alum Creek Lake each summer in July ago and is the current program Manager for the show. This event has and August with members having a big cookout bringing family E-mail: [email protected] • FAX (248) 471-6212 • phone(248) 471-6211 • address: PO Box 530714, Livonia MI 48153 grown every year and helps this Chapter to educate and promote members and friends to participate in the festivities. Members also have Muskies Inc and the Central Ohio Chapter and shortens the learning the opportunity to fish at the meetings as well. To see more on what curve for anyone who attends one of the many seminars they have they have scheduled go to www.centralohiochaptermuskiesinc.org they scheduled. The Ohio Muskie Show is held at the Buckeye Hall of have many of the same types of events that other Muskie Inc Chapters Fame Café 1421 Olentangey River Road in Columbus Ohio on have including Tournaments. On May 14th and 15th members February 24th 25th & 26th. For anyone looking to meet some of the attended the Russ Dodridge Tournament at Clear Fork and 39 people well known Muskie Guides or Pro’s that will be attending this event, signed up to fish, new member Richard Miller won with a 40.5 muskie go to www.ohiomuskieshow.com what a great way to spend a cold and that was his first legal muskie to boot. On May 21st and 22nd winter day by attending an event that brings the best of the best under one roof. This is one of the best opportunities anyone can get to find members Kevin Selders & Mike Money took second place in the that bait he of she has been looking for of find a deal on a new rod & Pomme De Terre Lake Tournament in Missouri. JR member, Christian reel. With all of the Tackle Company’s that will attend, they are all “CJ” Overmyer took first place for the Cam – Am Chapter Challunge th th working to provide a selection of their respective products to your June 25 and 26 on Lake St Clair, with a monster 53” muskie. Moosehorn Lodge attention and promote new products for 2006. Christian is 10 years old and will retain the Ray Demers Memorial This Chapter works very closely with the ODNR (Ohio Cup, Biggest fish Award for one year. 93 people signed up for this Department of Natural Resources). They do this, as natural annual event and every year it is gets better and better. This event reproduction does not take place in Ohio. After every catch the included a pig roast and prizes for those who participated. Special Half page color ad mention should go to Tournament Director Jack Worline, for all of the Chapter is asking everyone to take a scale sample just before releasing the muskie. The Chapter provides muskie educational signs at boat events on Clear Fork. This Chapter has many events scheduled ramps at the 9 stocked lakes in and around Ohio, and provides scale during the year there and Jack is the person whom makes everything sample envelopes at the launch areas for the lucky anglers that need run smoothly and is the director for these events. them. The sample scale is mailed to the ODNR and the scale sample (Continued on page 28) will be tested to determine the age of the fish and what stocking class the fish came from. This information is paramount for their efforts Still to come...? supporting a healthy fishery and provides information that can only benefit the future of their beloved sport. Some of the lakes this Chapter has directed these efforts towards are. The Barbie Chain in Indiana. Lake St.Clair in Detroit. Cave Run in Kentucky & the Green River in Kentucky. The one thing that is plentiful in Ohio’s muskie lakes if forage. The bulk of their diet consists of Gizzard Shad. Gizzard Shad spawn in the shallows in May and move out into open water in mid-June. Muskies are close behind with hundreds of pounds per acre of shad available for food. It is wise to consider using shad imitating crankbaits for muskie lures. Muskellunge are native to 22 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 23 Showcasing our M.I. Supporters: Esox Angler Magazine CABIN FEVER CHALLUNGE by Patricia Strutz Esox Angler cover (issue 21). 2006 In past issues we’ve discussed skin cancer (with graphic photos to drive the point home!) and strength and conditioning techniques. The Kentucky Chapter Fisheries biologist Dan Isermann adds some wonderful knowledge in his field of expertise.Other key musky authors such as Doug Of Muskies Inc. Johnson, Bruce Shumway, Rob Manthei, Dick Pearson, Dan Craven, Lee Tauchen, and Josh Vorovsky have all contributed to the Presents the magazine’s level of excellence.” th Esox Angler started out as a pike and musky magazine from day 15 Annual Cabin Fever Challunge uring the late 1990’s four guys (Pete Maina, Ross Fisher, one. The argument was that there was a lot of overlap. “Our musky Rick Renard, and Scott Schwalbach) put their heads season is very short in the northern realm, the pike season extends At Green River Lake Dtogether to start a new venture. The result was the magazine further into the calendar year. Including pike also extended our Esox Angler. An interview with Senior Editor Jack Burns describes venues to Europe. This extended geography allows us to work with Campbellsville, KY those early years, “They thought there was room in the market for incredible authors such as Jan Eggers from the Netherlands, and April 6, 7, 8 another voice. Let’s say they had an agenda and they didn’t have an David Lumb from the United Kingdom. We can bring some of their agenda. They wanted to offer a different style magazine, one that tactics over here and learn from another culture.” Thursday, Friday, Saturday pursued a variety of perspectives. Our columns like “Back Lash: In keeping true to their “controversial edge” the magazine Thumbs Up & Thumbs Down” dove right into this controversial recently added walleye content and created a stir. Burns explains, arena. Our sport is full of passionate people with strong opinions “Bringing ‘eyes into the mix completes the circle for the Open registration, April 5, Campbellsville Community Center and we wanted to be a forum for these topics.” Northcountry environment that muskies live in. Certainly it Entry fees on or before March 17: Adult $70, Juniors $35 “Sometimes our intentions are misconstrued. The perception expanded our market but it also expanded our magazine. We did not Entries after March 16: Adult $80 can be that when a high profile guy like Pete (Maina) takes a stand cut back on articles focusing on muskies or pike, instead we added on tournaments or other topics that the whole core group at the twelve more pages. In the past two issues we added 16 more pages so $5.00 Optional big fish pot magazine feels that way. That’s just not true. We want to tackle tough we now have 112 (the first issue had 80). There is more content on Entry fees INCLUDES meals on Friday & Saturday nights topics-like tournaments, world records, and proper handling of fish. all species. In the summer 2005 issue we have a musky guy writing Friday dinner only: $20 We invite pros and cons on both sides to be discussed. We even had about using musky tactics to catch walleyes in Green Bay and a pike a pro & con debate between two friends who guy using walleye tactics to catch pike. We Saturday dinner only $20 fish together yet disagree on selective harvest also have a musky guy using pike tactics to vs. total catch and release (Rusty Lilyquist and catch ‘skies. This is all conscious. We are Chapter with largest fish wins traveling trophy Pete Maina). Within the magazine core, we well positioned to do this because we have are very divided on these different issues yet guides from all three species and there is • we embrace the chance to discuss each side trulya lot of overlap. If you read about Manufactures Displays Welcomed and learn from them.” • Friday night Seminar by Patricia Strutz of A Blonde & Her Boat other species you get a multi-dimensional • “We truly want to live up to our motto of look at the fish’s environment and it makes Saturday night Seminar by Richard Collin of Ottawa Trophy Muskie being ‘the real deal.’ We try to discuss political you a better angler.” Charters hotbed issues such as Indian treaties and No Including other species beside muskies ------More Muskies groups. Most folks try to also fosters a larger group of qualified Registration Form tapdance around these issues but they are fishermen and authors to share their paramount to our sport. We certainly don’t expertise. Noted pike and walleye anglers Name______make all our readers or our sponsors love us, such as Keith Kavajecz, Gary Parsons, Joe Address______but we feel these topics are too important to Bednar, and Jack & Mary Penny regularly City______State/Prov______ZIP______ignore.” add their insights. Esox Angler works Esox Angler’s staff currently includes toward balance-from discussing issues to Phone______Muskies Inc Chapter and Membership #______editors Jack Burns and Rob Kimm, General Esox Angler’s Senior Editor, Jack Burns with offering viewpoints from a variety of a water release from opening day 2005. Manager Pete Maina and Director of fishermen. “We have a great balance of Operations David Fornara. Scott Schwalbach heads up the art veterans as well as young kids writing for us. And guys from out East Make Checks payable to Kentucky Chapter of Muskies Inc. direction. and from the MidWest. This just goes hand in hand with our ‘real Clip and mail registration form with entry fee to: Taylor County Tourist Commission Burns continues, “We work with an excellent group of authors deal’ philosophy, offering information from many sources.” PO Box 4021, Campbellsville, KY 42719 and welcome new submissions. We are always looking for fresh In addition to the magazine, the group has expanded out into topics to delve into. We’d like to dismantle the macho edge of our other endeavors. Their office and store is located in downtown For additional information call Tom Welter (513) 481-2595 sport by welcoming more articles by women and about angling Hayward, Wisconsin and are kept running smoothly by staff women and children. Health, fitness, and medical considerations centered around fishing are other issues we find extremely relevant. (Continued on page 28) 24 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 25 JANUARY 13-14-15, 2006 JANUARY 13-14-15, 2006 11th AnnualChicago Muuskie Show Presented by: Friday, January 13 ...... 12 p.m.-9 p.m. Joe Bucher Fishing Day brought to you by Roberts Outdoors Saturday, January 14 . . . . .9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Musky Hunter Magazine Day Sunday, January 15 ...... 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Joe Bucher Jim Saric Spence Petros Steve Heiting Pete Maina Thorne Bros. Day FREE SEMINARS Partial Exhibitor List Admission Prices Joe Bucher Fishing Seminar Hall • Retailers: Rollie & Helen’s Musky Shop, Thorne Bros., Brought to you by Roberts Outdoors Smokey’s Musky Shop, Guide’s Choice Pro Shop, Crash’s and the Friday Bargain Day: $9 Friday, January 13th • Joe Bucher Fishing Day Landing, Pastika’s, Ed Shirley & Sons Sporting Goods Chicagoland Muskie Hunters Brought to you by Roberts Outdoors Saturday & Sunday: $10 • Publications • Resorts & Guides & South Side Muskie Hawks 1:00 BOB MEHSIKOMER Sponsored by Shimano Chapters of Muskies, Inc. 3-Day Pass $20 • Children under age 13 FREE Muskies — Right or Wrong • Custom Rod Makers • Taxidermists & Artists 2:30 LARRY RAMSELL Sponsored by Pastika’s • Boat Dealers: Bedford Sales: Ranger, Lowe, Lund; When to Cast, When to Troll Tracker: Tundra Convenient, Easy-To-Find Location 4:00 RICH RHEINERT Sponsored by Fig Rigs Rods/ • Manufacturers: A&L Lures, American Hardwood Lures, Dreamcatcher Tackle Beaver Lures, Beckman Net, Bait Rigs Tackle Co., Joe Bucher HARPER COLLEGE Scratchin’ The Surface With Topwaters Fishing, Dadson Custom Rods, Dakins Tackle, DeLong Lures, 5:30 JOE BUCHER Sponsored by Roberts Outdoors Roselle & Algonquin Roads, Palatine, IL WWF Muskies Drifter Tackle, Eagle Tail Lures, Esox Research, Frabill, Fudally 7:00 MIKE HULBERT Sponsored by Frabill Tackle, Gopher Bait Co., Fishing Pool Tackle, Hellraiser Tackle, Indiana Muskies Hirsch’s Ghosttails, Leo Lures, Lunge Locker, Meat & Potatoes Tackle Co., MRG Custom Bait Painting, Muskie Catcher Lures, Saturday, January 14th • Musky Hunter Day Musky Innovations, Musky Magic Tackle, Musky All Speakers Sponsored by Musky Hunter Magazine Mania Tackle, Nimmer Swimmer Lures, 10:00 STEVE HEITING Poolside Outdoor Innovations, Pfeiffer Tackle Co., Trophy Muskie Triggers Demos Ryan’s Custom Leaders, Sheldon’s Inc. 11:30 SPENCE PETROS including (Mepps), Shimano, Shumway Tackle, Game Plan For Big Muskies Joe Bucher & 1:00 JIM SARIC Pete Maina Slammer Tackle, Suick Lure Manufacturing, St. Croix Rods, Trophy Technology, True Glide, Full House Muskies 2:30 JOE BUCHER Poolside Demonstration VooDoo Tails, Wiltail Lures, Wishmaster Big Baits. 4:00 STEVE HERBECK Canadian Giants 4-6 p.m. OPEN POOL FREE DRAWINGS! FREE PARKING! Featuring All Exhibitors NEW 5:30 GREGG THOMAS GRAND PRIZE: Musky tackle box filled with 40 choice Over 2,000 FREE Parking Spaces Available! Breaklines, Boat Control, And Big Muskies musky baits! Additional prizes include Beckman landing nets and The Chicago Muskie Show is sponsored by: Sunday, January 15th • Thorne Bros. Day Shimano reels, plus many other great prizes. All donated 10:00 DICK PEARSON by exhibitors at the show! ® Upper Stratum ’Lunge Friday: Hourly giveaways of Joe Bucher’s favorite lures in Musky Hunter MUSKY MAGAZINE 11:30 POOLSIDE DEMOS INNOVATIONS LLC Multiple Manufacturers: Gregg Thomas, MC a 6-pack kit. Courtesy of Roberts Outdoors 1:30 PETE MAINA Saturday: Free drawing of Musky Hunter Jacket. Muskie Myths & Realities Courtesy of Musky Hunter Magazine 1:30-3:30 OPEN POOL Exclusive Rod & Reel Sponsor Sunday: Free drawings of 8 all-new model Shimano rod A&L Lures Featuring All Exhibitors VooDoo Tails 3:00 CHAD CAIN Sponsored by Frabill & reel combos to attendees at the conclusion of the Muskie Food Poolside Demo. Courtesy of Shimano Daily Door Prizes for Early Arrivals For show & hotel information, call (847) 328-6200 • www.chicagomuskieshow.com

26 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 27 From the Archive Here is our very first communication with M.I. Members from February 1967.

MUSKIES, INC. NEWSLETTER 1708 UNIVERSITY AVE. ST. PAUL. MINN. 55104 Ð PHONE: 644-8684 FEBRUARY, 1967 Ð VOL. 1, NO. 1 men found the little “Water Wolves” eating four number-three washtubs of flea-like daphnia a day! Later, the fingerlings inhaled 700,000 carp fry in (would you believe?) three days! Finally, and in INTRODUCTION desperation because they’d eaten all the food in sight, most of muskies were dumped in the lake. This is the first issue of the official newsletter of Muskies, Inc. It will be a digest of important 3,000 were held back and put in a rearing pond. At four months and 20 days, these were a foot information about Muskellunge fishing in Minnesota and the factors which bear on its long. Of those dumped into Pomme de Terre, one was caught by an angler, but it wasn’t improvement. The newsletter will also deal with items of interest and importance to our hooked. The young muskie held on to the minnow with such ferocity that it was reeled right into members. the boat!

ORGANIZATIONS NEWS MUSKIE LEGISLATION MEMBERS, EVENTS AND NEWS Five new members of the board of directors will give the organization a trong new technical- A Muskie bill has been introduced into the Senate and House Game and Fish Committees. This Vice President Bud Meier will have a good excuse for missing the regular April 11 meeting of scientific-promotional shot in the arm. They are: bill will seek to expand the states role in Muskie propagation. Why not ask your Senator or Muskies, Inc. He will be in Excelsior, telling the Minnetonka Game and Fish Club about Muskies, Representative to support the bill. The value of such legislation can be best stated in the slogan Inc., showing the members Bud Gorman’s KCMT-TV film on the battle Lake muskie success Dean Abrahamson of Minneapolis, who, in June, will receive his M.D. from the University of - “Muskies make money for Minnesota.” story. Muskies, Inc., has secured a print of that film (for which many thanks to the “Alexandria Minnesota as well as a companion Ph.D. in anatomy. Dean plans to stay on as an instructor in Bud” and KCMT) and its use is encouraged by members who are telling our story to outside the U of H Medical School, and will work closely with Drs. Chuck Huver and Arnie Lindal on an DUES groups. exciting research program in muskellunge biology. Dean is a native of Monticello, has fished the If MUSKIES, Inc. is to realize its promising start, it needs your cooperation. Have you paid your FROM THE ARCHIVE Mississippi and other waters all his life. His wife, Betty, yields to no one in her love of fishing. A reminder that our organization is pledged to help Walker man its booth at the big boat, Sports dues? If not, please remit to President Gil Hamm, at the address above, and don’t forget your and Travel Show in the Minneapolis Auditorium from March 24 to April 2. President Gil Hams will Wally Johnson of St.,Paul , owner of Kennel Aire Mfg. Co. (portable pet cages and all kinds of zip code.It will save us money for stocking muskies! ask for volunteers at the March meeting. This will be an excellent, opportunity for some hard dog equipment products), and the catcher of huge muskies, as anyone who saw Wally’s color selling of Muskies, Inc. We need your help. So please pitch in, if only for two or three hours on film on Eagle Lake at the January meeting can attest. Wally, who averages eight 20-pound-and- LIBRARY FACILITY

◆ one of the days. over muskies a year, is working on a “how to” piece for future issues of our Newsletter. Muskies, Inc. would like to locate clippings, pictures, articles or books (popular or scientific) related to the Muskellunge. Whenever possible, we would like to have such items permanently John McKane, editor of the MINNESOTA CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER and a member of Ray Rosenbert of Park Rapids, a professional guide for the 3M Company at its Wonewok Lodge for our library; however, we would be happy to copy and return those items which the owner Muskies, Inc., has generously given the club several pages in his April issue. The story, by Bud on big Mantrap Lake and one of the nation’s best muskie fishermen in his own right. 1963 would like to retain himself. If it is inconvenient for the owner to send such items, we would Meier, retraces the Battle Lake success story and tells of the aims, goals and make-up of winner of the Walker Muskie Days Derby, Ray last year caught ten big muskies in Leech Lake, appreciate knowing their source so that we might obtain them. Our library will be a reference Muskies, Inc. Our special thanks to John, who is also giving some air time to Muskies, Inc., on the largest 34-1/2 lbs. Ray makes his own rods and lures and has, like Wally Johnson, promised source for all members; therefore, it is important to build it now. Please send items to Gil Hamm his Hastings radio station KDWA. to share his fishing know-how in our Newsletter. at the address above. Harry Heinzerling, sales manager of the Creek Chub Bait Co., has noted the founding of Bill Taylor of Walker, Secretary-Manager of the Cass County Chamber of Commerce and chief Muskies, Inc., and promised to send to our Newsletter, copies of his firm’s releases. Creek Chub MUSKIE RECIPES drum-beater for the annual Walker Muskie Days Derby fishing contest, the pioneer muskellunge makes the famous “pikie” minnow Wally Johnson swears by this lure and has caught dozens of Wives are going to need good Muskie recipes for all the muskies our members will be catching promotion in Minnesota. If the rest of the state were as aggressive in publicizing the muskie as trophy muskies to prove his point Walker, Minnesota would be much closer to Wisconsin in the race for the sport fisherman’s this coming season. Why not mail yours for our next newsletter. Nothing like preparing for a patronage. Much of Walker’s success is due to Bill. We’re counting on him to do as much for feast ahead of time. Ray Ostrom, another fishing tackle magnate, is an active member of Muskies, Inc. Ray, importer Muskies, Inc. of the “Rapala” and other items in the line of Normark Enterprises, is fishing in British Honduras MUSKELLUNGE NEWS with his partner, Ron Weber. In addition to snook and tarpon, they’re going to check reports of Darrell Trumbauer of Battle Lake, owner of the breezy brook bait Co., and the man who sparked POLLUTION ABATEMENT IN THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER an Island, fresh water lake boasting 25-pound largemouth bass. (We might believe 24!) the exciting program that has all of west-central Minnesota talking about the muskie fishing in Muskies cannot survive in sewers! At our February meeting Don Andrews, a conservationist Friends of gunsmith and rod-maker Joe Novotny, dispossessed by Capitol Center Renewal Pro- West Battle Lake, where Darrell and his friends in the battle Lake Civic and Commerce Club from St. Cloud and a member of Clear Air, Clear Water Unlimited told us the dreary news of gram in St. Paul, will be happy to know that he’s still in business, but operating from his home at introduced the species in 1963. Darrell has raised three crops of muskie fingerlings to 14-15 inch pollution in the upper Mississippi both above and below St. Cloud. His interest was aroused 1257 Juno, St. Paul, phone 699-8412. He does excellent work but warns not to wait for the last planting size and, consequently, has gained much practical when he found a favorite fishing hole ruined by sewage. He pointed out that at one time there minute to contact him about rod and reel repairs. knowledge about the hungry little tigers. His knowledge, too, will go into the impressive was packing house refuse on the river shores from St. Cloud to Montecello. Packing house technological kitty being built up by Muskies, Inc. sewage consists of blood, paunch manure, and unused animal parts; the presence of such ITEMS FOR THE NEXT NEWSLETTER MUST BE SENT TO OUR OFFICE BY MARCH 1. materials is certain to reduce the water’s oxygen content drastically and create unsuitable The club considers itself lucky to have conservationists the caliber of the men named above on conditions for fish. its board of directors. They can only help guarantee our success. IN THE NEXT NEWSLETTER The upper Mississippi from its source to Anoka is important Minnesota Muskie water. Robert A List of Muskie Lakes and Rivers NEXT MEETING Page Lincoln, the well known angler-author, in his book, “The Pike Family,” said: “Even today the Muskie Recipes The next regular meeting of Muskie, Inc. will be field on March 14, 7:00 PM, at the Press Club of Mississippi River in its Minnesota Locale is probably the best location for the species in that Muskie Fishing Articles the Radisson Hotel. (This is not a dinner meeting.) The events include: Guest Speaker Clarence state.” IF YOU WANT BETTER MUSKIE FISHING N MINNESOTA, THEN JOIN MUSKIES, INC, Kallep, Dorchester, Wisconsin on “Muskie Rearing” and a film entitled, “Sweet Water Cannibal” There will be a federal public hearing in the spring to supply data and receive information for the by Ray Ostrum. DON’T MISS IT!!! More Muskie Hatcheries ultimate classification of this part of the Mississippi, which will help to determine whether this area Introduction of Muskies into Suitable Waters Musky Research and Information of the river will be suitable only for industrial cooling processes, as a free sewer for municipalities Members Fishing Contest and industry, or whether it will still be a suitable habitat for Muskellunge, smallmouth, swimmers Muskie Fishing for Junior Members Newsletter and fresh water sailors. Muskies, Inc. plans to introduce a resolution at the hearing outlining the standards we feel must be set to preserve this last remaining stretch of the “Father of Waters.”

MISSOURI MUSKIES Muskies, Inc. members will be interested in a story, “Muskellunge in Missouri,” in the February FROM THE ARCHIVE issue of that state’s magazine, MISSOURI CONSERVATIONIST. It’s a humorous but encouraging account of efforts to stock muskies as rough fish predators in Lake Pomme de Terre, one of the big Missouri impoundments. Starting with 55,000 two-inch muskies, fisheries ◆

CENTRAL OHIO (Continued from page 23) ESOX ANGLER (Continued from page 24)

The Central Ohio Chapter also holds events for the Youth of members Melissa McPeak and Jennifer Tavolacci. Items such as their community. This is something I have discovered that all of the Musky Mania Tackle Logo shirts, a variety of books and videos, and Muskies Inc Chapters enjoy doing and the Central Ohio Chapter is EA branded merchandise and release tools are offered. When visiting no different. They have an Annual Youth Event in which they take the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame (also in Hayward), 150 inner city kids out for fun & game and of course they all get to complete the trip with a stop the Esox Angler shop. go fishing. The chapter buys approximately $1,000 worth of fish Marketing Director Teresa Webinger has recently added a “women’s that are stocked in a local fishing pond at one of the Columbus metro line of musky wear.” Fashionable yet functional denim shirts and tees parks, to teach them the basics of fishing and enjoy the time with the are offered for the ever-growing number of females out chasing these kid’s. They also provide dinner for all the volunteers and the kids. toothy creatures. This scribbler applauds her efforts! FROM THE ARCHIVE This event is under written buy one of our members Steve Pinkston. Pete has been regularly featured on Gillespie’s television show All of the members from this chapter provide a family atmosphere for ◆ “Woods & Water” but has recently added another show of interest. any event they attend. The people are what make this Chapter such a The Next Bite, hosted by Maina, Kavajecz, and Parsons, features big success and are leading it into the future. With the large amount segments on muskies, pike, and walleye. It airs on the Outdoor of JR membership participation and the willingness of the members Channel on Thursday evenings at 10:30 Eastern time. They strive to to lead them, they are heading in the right direction. I cannot end this not only be educational but to show how much fun fishing can be, article without mentioning Marah Overmyer participation in the too! Cam-Am Tournament as well. At age 11 she was the runner up at the The bold publication and the outcropping of enterprises it has Cam-Am Chapter Challunge in 2005 with a 48” giant muskie. To see created try to remain true to their roots by continuing to provide the pictures of the smiles on both (Marah 11) & (Christian 10) in the truthful information and ‘the real deal’ on the sport to their readers photo album on the Central Ohio’s web site is priceless. I look forward to seeing more of Jr. member participation and we can only and viewers. Though their focus is mainly on muskellunge, they also be inspired by the efforts and success by the two young anglers. With feature trophy pike and walleye tactics-easily balancing cutting edge the support they have with Ross Wagner and many others leading the techniques with time proven ones. Education, promoting a strong way, I’m sure they will have more fun adventure ahead of them. Good catch & release ethic, and establishing a platform to bring Luck Ohio and keep up the fantastic work! Go Buckeyes!! ❖ muskellunge, northern pike, and walleye anglers together on these common grounds ranks high on their priority list. ❖ FROM THE ARCHIVE 28 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 29 and she gracefully slid away with a couple of slow swishes of her tail. I was smiling and shaking really hard by now and I thought to myself what did I just do? I was ecstatic as was John. I felt like I had just won the lottery. What a fish. I would like to thank my wife and family for letting me pursue my number one passion muskie fishing. I would also like to thank the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for their excellent management of muskies and for having the foresight to stock Leech Lake Strain fish in various waters throughout the state. A big thank you to Muskies Inc. for the work done over the years. Without

Muskies Inc. I truly believe we would not have the quality of fishing we have today. I want to say a very special thank you to the members of the Arrowhead Chapter. By fishing together we have learned so much from each other that without some of this I know I would not have encountered this fish. If you are a MI member go to some of your meetings and get to know your fellow members. If you are not a member seriously consider joining. I guarantee you will learn things from each other that will increase your odds of catching a fish of a lifetime. ❖

fter witnessing one of the most beautiful sunsets I have seen god it worked, as it was now dark. We proceeded to cut and extract in awhile, my partner John Karakash from Retreat Lodge and all three trebles while she was still in the net in the water. Once that A I decided to try one more spot. Fishing had been terrible the was done we got the cameras ready. Oh no my camera batteries were past few days with John going five days and me two without a muskie dead! Lucky we had two and John’s was working. I picked her up but change was on the horizon. With only about 10 minutes of and holy cow she was heavy. John took a couple of quick photos and daylight left I had something grab my lure that felt like I had snagged I laid her on the board. She taped out at 52 1/2 inches with the tail a bull moose. The fish came up and head shook twice and started pinch and looked like a blimp lying on the board. We are now rolling and I knew right away it was big but I had no idea of what I referring to this fish as “Ms. Zepplin”. We put the tape around her had on at that time. and got 28 inches but looking at her we were not in the widest part I worked her up to the boat and when we got our first look at so we moved up and retaped twice and both times it was 28 1/2 her we both new right there and then that this fish was a 50 lber, just inches. Just incredible. We had no scale in the boat so I carefully put massive. We both thought 55 inches for sure due to her back in the net and John got on his cell phone the massive girth and huge head. She came up and She was a perfect and called his wife to run the calculations. As I was head shook once by the boat and we could see she holding the fish by the tail in the net John said had T-boned the 10 inch lure and had all three specimen and I didn’t “53.3” and I said what? Try again, yep 53.3 lbs. hooks. Matter of fact I think she had that 10-inch think she was at her Now I knew the Minnesota Record was 54 lbs lure completely in her mouth sideways. She took even. I also knew the formula we used off on several hard power runs and each time I full potential yet. Plus LXGXG\800 could be off a couple of pounds one- would work her back to the boat she would take off what great genetics to way or the other. I always said I would kill a state again. I finally got her up and John was ready with record fish if I ever caught one and here I was the net but she decided to take me for a walk, no pass on. I thought looking at a fish that could possibly be. What a more like a fast run, around the boat. I got her dilemma. I must have had a million thoughts go along side the boat again and John was ready with for a few seconds and through my head trying to decide what to do. She the net and got her in. High fives and several loud said lets release her. was a perfect specimen and I didn’t think she was at Yahoos entailed. I looked in the net and couldn’t her full potential yet. Plus what great genetics to believe my eyes. Now I have caught a lot of muskies and some big pass on. I thought for a few seconds and said lets ones but this fish with it’s girth and huge head just dwarfed anything release her. John pulled the net away and she really wanted to go. I I had ever seen before. We only had one headlamp along and thank had to use both hands to hold her tail, as it was so thick. I let her go

30 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 31 CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWSNEWS& CHAPTER

48 46 2 15 33 24 12 38 13 37 21 6 26 1 4 30 20 8 35 29 47 10 14 Special 32 39 11 17 3 49 23 31 7 22 19 16 27 51 41 18 50 44 Events 42 9 45 52 5 28 2006

Jan. 13-14-15, 2006 Chapter News and Views Extreme Muskie Show (Pittsburgh) January 13-15, 2006 ◆ Tri-Esox Chicago Muskie Show CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWSNEWS& CHAPTER No. Chapter, Address Phone # Harper College, Palatine, IL For Info. call (847) 328-6200 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 Jan 27-28-29, 2006 04 ...... Titletown, Green Bay Area, Wisconsin ...... TBD Extreme Muskie Show (Medina, MN) 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 Feb. 10-11-12, 2006 08 ...... Capital City, PO Box 8862, Madison, WI 53708 ...... 608-274-3479 Rioter Milwaukee Show 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 Feb. 24-25-26, 2006 11 ...... Mississippi Valley, 5301 11th Ave “C”, Moline, IL 61265...... 309-797-1803 Ohio Chpt. Muskie Show 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 March 10-11-12, 2006 15 ...... Star of the North, 29957 La Plant Rd., Grand Rapids, MN 55744 ...... 218-326-4958 Blaine, MN Muskie Show 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 March 17-18-19, 2006 19 ...... Akron-Canton Muskie Maniacs, 1503 S Main St, Akron, OH 44301 ...... 330-724-7592 Extreme-Chicago Muskie Show 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 March 31 & April 1, 2006 22 ...... New Jersey, http://www.mi22.com/...... TBD M.I. International Spring Board Meeting ◆ 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 Ð Twin Cities 26 ...... Central Wisconsin, PO Box 263, Medford, WI 54451...... 715-748-2630 VIEWSNEWS& CHAPTER 27 ...... Central Illinois, 1191 Sandra Lane, Monticello, IL 61856...... 217-762-8070 August 9,10,11 28 ...... Shawnee Muskie Hunters, PO Box 602, DeKalb, IL 60115...... 815-756-3231 As of right now the 2006 Gil Hamm 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 Chapter Challunge is going to be hosted 31 ...... Penn-Ohio, 309 Spring St, Jamestown, PA 16134 ...... 724-932-5815 out of McQuoids resort on Mille Lacs 32 ...... Flatlanders, 5776 Vesper Drive, South Beloit, IL 61080...... 815-389-4622 Lake in MN. 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 Special events listings are provided at 39 ...... Fox River Valley, 1253 Cobblers Crossing, Elgin, IL 60123 ...... 847-741-9771 no charge to Muskies, Inc chapters. 41 ...... Central Ohio, 8494 Fall Gold Lane, Westerville, OH 43082...... 614-451-0485 To list your chapter's event, email to: 42 ...... Hoosier Muskie Hunters, PO Box 501371, Indianapolis, IN 46250...... 317-577-8050 [email protected] 44 ...... Colorado, P.O. Box 270064, Louisville, CO 80027...... 720-938-4109 or by ground mail: Jim Smith, 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 15045 W. Double Tree Way, 47 ...... Michigan Muskie Alliance, PO Box 512, Caledonia, MI 49316...... 616-447-1688 Surprise, AZ 85374-8568. 48 ...... Arrowhead, PO Box 82, Virginia, MN 55792 ...... 218-482-5217 Please send announcements 49 ...... Webster Lake Musky Club, PO Box 670, No. Webster, IN 46555...... 574-834-1669 at least 2 months in advance. 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 32 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 33 CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS 4MUSKIE 34 website www information onallaspectsoffishing.Visit our activities ofthechapterwithlotsgood anyone thatisinterested.Itcoversindetailthe have beenstockedinMissourilakes. state. Ithasonlybeenabout40yearsthatfish don’t evenrealizethatmuskiefishingexistsinthe run intofolkswhogonorthfishingeveryyearthat Missouri fishingopportunitiesbecausewestill we stillneedtospreadthewordabout getting peopleinterestedinthesport.We know number ofcitiespromotingmuskiefishingand of sportsshowsandthechapterkeepsbusyina bass andcreateafundayoffishing. or twootherlivewells. Those arenicesizewhite well averagedover1poundperfishasdidone fish werebitingandtheybig. The winninglive clear. Bytheendofdayitwasapparentthat pessimism; notmuchwindandtheskieswere participants thatstartedinthemorningwith forth overthelast4yearsinthatposition. president andwearegratefulfortheeffort heput will befirmedup.CarlMarksisouroutgoing December whenourscheduleforthenextyear we lookforwardtoourplanningmeetingin outdoor optionsthatMissourihastooffer. fishermen alsohuntandgetdistractedbyallthe close. Doesn’thaveto,itsjustthatsomany and thefishingseasoninthisareadrawstoa 2006 BoardofDirectorsandOf Elections wereheldforthe Lemont.! Robcanbereachedat(630)306-1012. in twotowns……guesswhere?Napervilleand he’s seenmuskieswithin30minutesofChicago guide. Hesharedwithusalittleknownsecretthat tournaments. Inaddition,heisamulti-species participates inmanyoftheBassMasters fishing locallakesandriversnearChicago.Rob combos thatheusesandhashisclientsusewhile around anentirearsenalofbaits,tackleandrod local Chicagolandlakesandrivers.Robpassed Service talkedindetailabouthisguideserviceon information. almi rdeiw Lstartingat7:00pm. Harlem inBridgeview, IL the monthatMamaLuigi'slocated7500S. Our meetingsareheldeverythirdWednesday of We wouldbehappytoemailournewsletter The firstoftheyearbringsparticipationinalot The whitebassoutinginNovemberhad12-16 newslateofofficers hasbeenelectedand A Thanksgiving rapidlyapproachesasIwritethis V RichNoerenberg SueMazur RVP JackFrost Secretary Treasurer Lynn Polyak Vice President President John Daley Rob Kasjanski,from“Let’s GoFishing”Guide 07 05 Meets: Various days-Callforschedule 22SMlia ubn,I 60459 8212 SMulligan¥Burbank,IL .missourimuskies.org .....January 2006 .....January 417-745-2381 ÐCarlMarks Pomme de Terre www Hermitage, MO65668 Muskie Hawks Todd Niewold Paul Miletich Kathy Noerenberg Joel Janecek Al Buvelot .missourimuskies.org South Side 708-430-4444 P.O. Box5 ficers : for more them andyes,they canstillswimjustfine. The fin dropped orsqueezed toohard.No,itdoesn’thurt fins. This lessensthechance thattheymayget the fingerlings(andourhands) before clipping was givenaleftpectoralfinclip.We anesthetized fingerlings stockedpreviouslythis fall,eachone shape. ranged insizefrom8”to13”and wereingreat to LakeMononaonFriday, November11. They made thetripdownfromMinnesotaMuskieFarm their donationsaregoing. us theyliketohearfromandknowwhere from theSouthSideMuskieHawks patronize ourDonatorsandtellthemyou Seminar andFundraiser of thisyear See separatepageinmagazineforalistofall THANK YOU TO OURDONATORS: to goEd! was wonbySSMHmember, EdGurka,Jr. Way giant drumfortheGrandraffle. with goodiesandalsohelpedpullticketsfromthe fisheries. They eachreceivedatackleboxfilled future anglersandprotectorsofoursport came runningtothestagebehonoredas continued thisyear……Everychild12andunder muskie hunting. Scott andSeanBirminghamtalkingonlocal hunting anddynamotagteam,SSMHmembers, Minnesota fishingguide,talkingontigermuskie Hawks - Tony Grant,Kentucky, Wisconsin,and respected friendsoftheSouthSideMuskie totaling over$20,000! food, drinksandouralwayspopularGrandRaffle fish stories,seeingoldandnewfriends,great people cameoutforafunafternoonofsharing Ashton PlaceinWilllowbrook,IL.Well over 300 November 27atourseminarhome,Marie’s 23rd Annual SeminarandFundraiser Board ofDirectors Meets: 2 McFarlan, WI followed bybreakthenraffle. $500+inprizes. informal meetingat7PM,speaker7:30 Bolingbrook, IL.Foodservedstartingat6PM, BasaMarine in annual meetingat January 25thhasbeenconfirmedforour To separatethemfromtheWisconsinstrain 700 LeechLakestrainmuskiefingerlings This year’s boat,trailerandmotorpackage This year’s We haveagreatSSMHtraditionandit Our guestspeakersthisyearwere3well June JackFrost Thompson colossaleventwasheldSunday,This year’s RichZebleckis PaulMiletich JohnMcNicholas Pete Barber Lori Frost Barb Zebleckis SueMazur LadiLapin Steve Schmidt JoelJanecek DennisDurak RonMazur Lynn Polyak JohnDaley Rick Noerenberg Kathy Noerenberg Todd Niewold AlBuvelot Bob Jeffries Bob Holtz Pam Durak George Benda (Jan. 1,2006ÐDec.31,2007) (Jan. 1,2005ÐDec.31.2006) 08 nd Gregg Thomastospeakat Basa MarineinJanuary Monday 7:00PMParkPonderosa ’ s 608-274-3479 ÐGerardHellenbrand P.O. Box8862,Madison,WI53708 ‘ Donators tothe23rd Annual www .capitalcitymuskiesinc.org Capital City ’ . Besureto … .they tell ’ re October 21-22Fall Mail-In (outing) October 7-8Cave RunLake,KY June 24-25 Wayne NationalForestKid’s Fishing 10 June NorthForkHughesLake(2day June 3-4 IndianaClassic(Outing) May 19-20 SpringMail-In May 6-7 April 8-9 Department inSeptember. Membership MeetingheldattheEllenboroFire Activity scheduleputtogetherattheFall Listed belowisthe2006 Tournament/ Outing/ helped bothdays. Leading byexample,ourPresidentJimMoore, Matt Romine,JohnandDavidKaltenecker. and MarkShaffer. Volunteers atPalestinewere included KenMikes,LarryRobinsonandRick years. about 400advancedfingerlingsinthepastthree Lake inRitchieCountywhichhasnowreceived about 12”. All weretakentoNorthForkHughes WV DNR. The averagesizeatPalestinewas is thelongestmuskiefingerlingeverproducedby Palestine pondwerea17”and18”. The 18inch the 92advancedfingerlingsrecoveredfrom into UpperMudLakeinLincolnCounty. Among Grove whichaveraged11”. They werestocked Hatcheries. Ninety-fourweretakenfrom Apple retrieved fromthe Apple GroveandPalestine reputation? tactics heespouses.Naw, whyruinmy One ofthesedaysIactuallyhavetousethe good weatherandbadtoaccomplishhisfeats. also putsinthetimeandeffort nightandday Hanson. Gosh,hecatchesalotofmuskies.He RVP. That waseasy. Treas., Tom Penniston-Sec.andCraigEversol- Reinstra- Prez,CoryPaynter-VP, DanReim- current officers werereelectedasfollows;Steve on cameraforusandwegotsomefreePR. whole thing.CoryPaynter, ourVP, didagreatjob two boatswithwatertanksinthemtofacilitatethe with theDNRbroughtin-lakenetpens,tubsand newspaper coverage. Three ofmycoworkers observe theprocedureaswell TV and help net,haul,scatterstockthefingerlingsand Thanks!! Musky Busterswhodonated$2000tothecause. raisers andlocalmuskiegroupssuchasOregon future stockingdecisions. The infolearnedfromthisstudycouldhelpwith partially buthaveaverydistinctirregularpattern. rates ofbothstrains. The finsdogrow back the twostrainssowecanmonitorgrowth clips allowustolatertellthedifference between Sunday June25ÐPiedmontLake, Ohio Saturday June24ÐSaltForkLake, Ohio Chapter volunteersassistingat Apple Grove In October, advancedmuskiefingerlingswere The NovemberspeakerwasourownJeff November isofficer electionmonth. All the There wereagoodnumberoffolksthereto Monies wereraisedthroughchapterfund 09 Meets: Nodefiniteschedule-call and FunDay Saturday Only-Kid’s FishingDerby membership tournament) Jackson Reservoir Odie CutlipMemorial,Stonewall http://westvirginiamuskiesinc.org Little Hocking,OH45742 West Virginia 1270 FederalRoad 740-667-3571 Gary 0-for-2005Greene growing astowhatwilltheNew Year bring. members forthecomingyear, excitementis cylinders. Withelectionsofofficers andboard merchandise programandhasthat runningonall appreciated. JohnSchmidthastakenoverour job forsomanyyears,yourtalentsarereally Treasurer JimGall,whohasreallydone agreat reproduction withacostsavingstoourclub. Plans areunderwayforapossiblee-mail informative assome370aresentoutmonthly. Paul HansenandDalePetersonisreally 2006 OurNewsletterproducedanddirectedby 12 PinesRestaurantonSaturdayJanuary7th, again chairingtheChristmasPartytobeheldat and 1stlady, BillandSandyJacobswillonce and hiswifePattychairedthatevent.President 25th SpringClassicMusky Tournament ashe Miller whocameupwithsomeneatideasforout beginning at5pmto10pm. Tip oftheHattoJeff Saturday April 1stof2006attheEagleRiverInn Awards BanquetandFundRaiser. Incidentally its in keepingthemaccessible. were ourclubhelpsoutfinanciallyandphysically handled theDocksandLandingsassignment us greatsupporttothatendeavor. GaryMyshak received andattendedasHeckelsMarinagave Art Anderson KidsFishing Tips programwaswell 450 asJimChamberlinkeepsontopofthatduty. Eagle Riverareawaters.Ourmembershipisat Woods andGaryMyshak53inchmuskyfrom Patricia Strutz53inchfishfromLakeofthe for ourclub.Somebigfishwerecaughtlike Neddo ourStatisticianreports980muskyCPR February 11, 2006. Vienna CommunityBuildingonSaturday Meeting and Awards Banquetwillbeheldatthe grateful toMr. Bosoforhisgenerosity. ever receivedbyourWVChapter. We aremost without questionthelargestsinglecontribution Chapter witha$1000.donationforthisproject, Hoosier MuskieHunters.Fredpresentedthe Parkersburg (WV)andacurrentmemberof approached byFredBoso;aformerresidentof brief explanationofthisproposal,hewas at NorthForkHughesLake. After Jimgavea International Muskies,Inc.foratelemetrystudy Chapter, Jimaccepteda$500.Grantfrom understandable way. OnbehalfoftheWV communicated inaninterestingand that valuableandimportantinformationwas Muskie SymposiuminIndianapolis.Jimreports from WVDNRattendedandparticipatedinthe Thanks toBillGibbsforservingaschairperson. third witha34”fromLeesvilleonCBJerk. the LittleMuskingumRiver. ChuckBraniff was second placewitha35”onWidowmakerfrom an OdieBaitatSaltForkLake.RayHensleytook Ohio. LarryRobinsonwonwitha39”caughton entrants inourFallMail-Intournamentfished www.muskiesinc.org Hats off toDalePetersdonwhochairsthe Another goodfishingseasonisendingasBarb Be remindedthatour Annual Business BillCraneandadelegation Jim Moore,RVP With manyWVwatersdiscolored,several 12 Meets 1 Secretary Jim www 715-479-1821 ÐPaulHansen st John Kaltenecker, Secretary Wednesday 7:00PM Eagle River, WI54521 .headwatersmuskies.com AP HOLIDAYS TO ALL HAPPY Headwaters P.O. Box652 “ HiPines ” Rechlitz active. board memberswithsomenewpeoplebecoming also willcontinuetohaveagoodgroupofactive Timme willbeourregionalvicepresident.We as secretaryanddirectoratlargewhileBarb continue onastreasurer, Bob Timme willserve will beourvicepresident,Vickie Palyawill Persson willagainbepresident,LarryRamsell 2006 tournamentthesameasthisyear’s. raffle salesonSunday. We planonrunningthe profit alsoincreasedmainlyduetothe about 35peopleforatotalof554. The club’s format, resultinginanincreaseparticipantsof the boatbutmostpeopleseemedtolikenew comments aboutthechangeinawardingof through thecrowd.We didreceivesomenegative excitement intheairandgoodvibrationsrunning to seeiftheirnamewouldbedrawn,therewas boat raffle. There wereabout500peoplepresent especially theSundayawardsceremonyand The overallresultwasthoughttobeexcellent Tuesday thefirst.We reviewedthetournament. Chapter washeldatRan-DeesRestauranton October. closing uptheircabinonLakeNamakagoninlate caught fourfishandlostseveralmorewhile notice fourentriesfromtheSpeziafamilywho interested membersareencouragedtoattend. our mainplanningmeetingfortheyearandall at 7:00p.m.Ran-DeesonHighwayB. This is The NovembermeetingoftheHaywardLakes Our Januarymeetingwillbe Tuesday the3 We haveelectedourofficers for2006.Mike In themembersstandingsbelowyouwill 13 Hayward Lakes Hayward, WI54843 715-634-4543 P.O. Box609 rd Womens Juniors IN OUR“MEMBERSCONTEST” FINAL) STANDINGS (NOT CURRENT Super Masters Mens Masters Mens Womens Masters : : : Anthony Spezia-1fish18pts.,a44” Alex Bement-2fish21pts., Alex Spezia-2fish-35pts.,includesa Charles Tollander -2fish15pts. Fred Hirsh-6fish82pts. Adam Glickman-12fish13pts. Brad Campbell-3fish42pts. Jack Woehler -4fish49pts. Roger Williamson-5fish63pts. Sarah Muntz-12fish115 pts. Jamie Spezia-1fish24pts.,50” Carol Chinnock-1fish25pts.51” Tera Niebauer-2fish26pts. Kerry Smith-4fish54pts. Tom Muntz-128fish1149 pts!!!!! Dick Minnick-118 fish-993pts.!!!!! January 2006..... January includes a41” 43” and44” eight from LakeNamekagononafigure from “TheChip” : : : (Continued onnextpage)

MUSKIE 35

Mike Persson Good Fishing,

CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS VIEWS & NEWS CHAPTER CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS VIEWS & NEWS CHAPTER ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS & NEWS CHAPTER ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS Elmer Greg Dini * MUSKIE 37 $65.00 2-year Individual $95.00 3-year Individual $90.00 2-year $132.50 3-year P.O. Box 670 P.O. 574-834-1669 Webster Lake Webster No. Webster, IN 46555 No. Webster, January 2006..... Dues Increase 49 Effective January 1, 2006 the dues will increase Effective Ron Fisher and I had attended the Muskie and I had attended Ron Fisher At present, I have not started the 2006 Congratulations to Chapter #49 member Regular Membership $35.00 1-year Individual Family Membership $47.50 one year Junior to age 18*Renew today and save $$$$ $20.00 our November meeting program. You guessed it, guessed You program. meeting our November to use white sucker rig on a a quick strike rigging some disparaging He made cast lures. as you large sucker I the size of the remarks about I can’t Hey, for the demonstration. brought him bait! normally fishes with wimpy help it if he gave the in Indianapolis and Symposium meeting a at the November members present decided to turn proceedings. Ross review of the length limits and how they it into a discussion on also discussed our fisheries. We relate to Ohio’s and decided to return upcoming Christmas party the old format. It will be a little more towards more informal, pizza and much less involved and expensive formal sit down games instead of an in our club always has Seems someone dinner. and the Christmas party the connections we need the downstairs party room is going to be held in Club. Ross also gave us an update of the Varsity & 26, 2006 Ohio Muskie on the February 24, 25 the club to take a He is encouraging show. the show in helping to bigger advantage of activities. promote and finance club the top of my head I program list but right off Dietz and my Tom know we want to bring in us friends from the Kentucky Chapter to update on Green River and Cave Run. of David Cates on being elected President Muskies Inc. for 2006.accomplishment!! On a sadder note, A WLMC Anderson and his wife Darleen Terry member tremendous recently were found murderedAlthoughresidence. at their I did not know it is Terry, very obvious he was well liked, was very involved in club functions, and will be greatly missed. be Hopefully the perpetrators of this crime can quickly brought to justice.out. boat shows and need volunteers to help WLMC will be at 3 at Please contact Gary Enos [email protected] to volunteer your services. The shows are; Hammond Outdoor Show- 25th and January 28th and 29th, Valpo-February Boat Show- March 16th - 19th. 26th, Ft Wayne Other upcoming events are Lure Swap February 18th at the Legion in North Webster. This is a great opportunity to part ways with some of those unwanted lures that are collecting dust. can You pick up some real bargains from those of us looking to unload excess lures, rods, reels, etc. This day also includes free lunch for WLMC members. Ice Out Challunge is scheduled for March 25th. If the lakes are still ice covered March 25th, the Challunge willApril 7th. be moved to the alternate date of JT Central Ohio Central 8494 Fall Gold Lane Remember Our Troops. Troops. Remember Our . Of 2006. Westerville, OH 43082 Westerville, provides us with great provides us with th 614-451-0485 Ð Ross Wagner .frvmuskie.com. Return ‘em to the water Healthy and 41 Meets 2nd Tuesday 7:00 PM, Buckeye Hall of Hall 7:00 PM, Buckeye Tuesday Meets 2nd Fame Café, 1421 Olentangy River Rd. We are looking for people who would like to are looking for people We thinking is not too soon to start It certainly Regular club meeting dates are the second Regular club meeting We hope you enjoy the directions our club is We Until Later, weather I mentioned last month that this fall’s cost to you, $8.00 for adults and $4.00 per child. and $4.00 for adults you, $8.00 cost to your and make form registration Get your soon. reservations the position of RVPvolunteer for and club you are interested If co-coordinator. merchandise please or both of these positions in either of Gallagher at [email protected]. contact Rich Kincaid in first club outing to Lake about our this outing can be found on March. Information on to our outings Director the web site or by talking also dial you in on the Jim Ziebka. He can trip. Be sure to pick up an upcoming Shelbyville Spring “Challunge on Annual entry for our 10th. April 29 the Chain” accommodations for the evening. They also the evening. accommodations for before every style dinner provide us with a buffet need not You are welcome. All 7:30 p.m. meeting. a couple of hours, Take be a member to attend. All what you see. will like You stop by and see us. our information and updates can be found on website at www Wednesday of the month. The Poplar Creek of the month. Wednesday Country Club has taken on a new The newsletter moving in. to look and the web site has is being re-tooled provide you with up to date information coupled are with easy navigation to the areas you our interested in. Each month I stress to you have members to get involved with your club. We a variety of great outings and community events. to These things do take some time and planning Amake them happen. lot of “behind the scenes” We work goes on by a dedicated group of people. We are always looking for new ideas and input. two. can also always use an extra hand or the Helping to co-ordinate events or be a judge in time Kids fishing derby do not really take a large commitment. It is also a great way to meet some our of the very knowledgeable fishing brains of YOUR club. Get involved, give us This is club. and ideas, voice your concerns, your comments The names, suggestions are always welcome. numbers and e-mail addresses for all BOD e- members can be found on the website. Call us, will mail us or pull us aside at the meetings. We All be more than happy to listen to your thoughts. the club members are welcome to sit in on They are monthly Board of Directors meeting. held the Monday night following the General The BOD gathers at the Membership Meeting. can You home of President Rich Gallagher. contact Rich or any BOD member for time and directions. Stop in and see how the events and Club are shaped. YOUR future of Guest and the general public are always welcome. For more information, call Ross at 614-451-0485. Wagner still is. Constant rain and wind was tough and it’s than normal has made fall fishing more difficult although we have had a lot of warm temperatures. Our president, Ross Wagner showed us one of the methods Wisconsin anglers use to deal with a tough bite as part of Lure . Of this and th Pool Side Pool Big Sisters. will be held at on your calendar. on your calendar. of the month instead .frvmuskie.com on your calendar. While on your calendar. Awards Night Awards oat Show at [email protected] www Fox River Valley River Fox Big Brothers and 847-741-9771 Ð Rich Gallagher 1253 Cobblers Crossing, Elgin, IL 601230 . Again as we did last year the event Again as . Wed (Exc June/July) Poplar Creek Country Wed Royce Nies nd . Annual Chicago Muskie Show at Harper 39 Our Annual Awards Banquet and Fund raiser Awards Annual Our February 21, 2006: The annual The annual 21, 2006: February meeting: March 2006 The very next day will be the opening of the April 2006: Will be our second fund raiser, the raiser, Will be our second fund April 2006: fishing will hold our annual May 6, 2006: We Annual B June 2006: Please direct any questions or comments to Please direct any questions hope everyone ! We Year to the New Welcome is our very special Year First up for the New th Meets: 2 Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates, IL. Estates, Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman will be held this winter on Saturday February This is a 18th. at the Poplar Creek Country Club. great excuse to get out for a day with the entire This year we are happy to have Ronald family. McDonald with us to entertain the children. We have an outstanding meal along with tables of A and silent auction items. raffle few of the items Digital Camera and a will be; a Photo Printer, Digital Camcorder along with lures, St. Croix All members who have Rods, and Garcia reels. registered a fish this season will receive a raffle ticket good for a chance on a Custom Built Rod by Frank ( these are really awesome sticks ! ) This is a with a Garcia Reel to keep it company. fun family gathering and a terrific way to break up The club the boredom of the coming Winter days. picks up half the cost of your meal making the www.muskiesinc.org these Saturday nights. these Pool. School Apollo High at event Grant visiting Tony marking the calendar pencil in us for our February meeting. In the future months Thomas, Spence Petros or Mike look for Gregg the Hulbert. Check here, the web site or and newsletter to find out who will be speaking which month they will be with us. 11 month. Make a note of that. The January meeting month. Make a note of that. will be the second Thursday Come early for a good of the usual Wednesday. This seat and bring something to take notes with. should be a Do Not Miss Collage in Palatine. The show will run Friday thru Collage in Palatine. and 15, 2006. Some of January 13, 14 Sunday, the best known personalities of our sport (Joe Jim Saric, Spence Petros, Dick Pearson, Bucher, Pete Maina and more.) will be on hand, along with some of the biggest retailers in the business. This is the next Don’t Miss Date Swap Fish Dinner American Legion. Park at the Waite will be held members to we need all of our For this event Please watch in one form or another. participate for more current our chapter newsletter information. day event with the event for our members This is always a popular that our young and the wonderful memories Remember a couple of people go home with. of these kids caught a 1 years ago when one pound “Gold Fish”? Sportsman’s Warehouse. Sportsman’s had a wonderful holiday season full of good of good friends and the most meaningful cheer, all, time with the family. This month we are happy to January meeting. in have a true legend of the Muskie community Dick Pearson. Here is your chance to be up close Pearson. He will be and personal with Mr. Thursday the 12 speaking to us on annual th : . The 19 . th at 7 p.m. to Sunday th the officers and board the officers St. Cloud th (320) 656-1160 .stcloudmuskies.com Sartell, MN 56377 . After the success we had . , and 17 312 18th Avenue N. Avenue 312 18th on Spirit Lake. These kinds on Spirit Lake. th th www th . Remember the season on all . Remember the season st , 16 th at the Waite Park American Legion. Park at the Waite at 9 a.m. Traditionally the tournament Traditionally at 9 a.m. annual Fall Muskie Tournament is Tournament annual Fall Muskie Tues. 7:30 PM American Legion, Waite Park. American Legion, Waite 7:30 PM Tues. Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. Thursday of each month th rd th rd 37 Besides electing officers, the board has the board Besides electing officers, Sincerely, Pete Hildreth Chapter Editor Sincerely, As I write this article the snow is falling and Masters:Women’s:Men’s: Bryan ThompsonJuniors: Stephanie Amberg 78 fish Brett Jagodzinski 5 fish Justin Bidwell will once again handle the January 2006: We 7 fish 5 fish Meets: 3 Witt served as the 2005 president. On behalf of On 2005 president. as the Witt served for the thank Dale I would to chapter the entire a was definitely done, 2005 job he has great change has been Little the chapter. great year for positions. Carl Waddell other officer made for the as secretary, president, Skip Frakes remains vice Leo Kofoot has and as treasurer, Mark Mitchell vice president. as the regional been elected January 19 Beginning already begun planning the great events for the already begun planning a lot is to be planned 2006 season. Obviously will continue to update you and as this happens I of our events. Some of monthly with the details have already been set so our annual event dates The the 2006 calendar. you can mark them on season opener is Iowa Great Lakes muskie May 21 Sunday, Okoboji, but for has been held on lake West safety purposes we are wondering if Spirit Lake would like to have would be a better location. We us input from our members, so please come join at a monthly board meeting or contact a board member to express an opinion on the matter. The 26 members will meet monthly at Godfather’smembers will Pizza Legion in American The Arnolds Park at 7 p.m. in doors again, so we now Milford has closed their Please come and join us have a new location. every 3 some small lakes are frozen over. But I hear some small lakes are frozen over. some of our most die hart muskie hunters are still I am sure these release on the open water. numbers will change before we have a complete freeze up, but currently our chapter members As I mention have caught and released 195 fish. last month several of our members are catching fish but not turning them in. So I think it is safe to say our chapter is having a very good year. Here are our leaders: Dates and Events to Remember Meat Raffle As you may recall this is one of our major “fund” raiser’s and we have a lot of “fun” doing it. We meet every Saturday night around 6 pm and in a All of our members couple of hours it is all over. are welcome to participate in one or more of August 6 September 15 we would also like to have another last year, As of this moment it will be summer outing. Saturday June 24 other muskie waters throughout the state is open other muskie waters throughout The Moonlight Madness tournament year round. August 5 will be Saturday Idso-October Muskiefest is scheduled for Idso-October Muskiefest is scheduled Saturday October 7 of events are a lot of fun and they are great The board is chance to get all of us together. be always open to new ideas, so again don’t get afraid to contact or join us at our monthly and be sure to visit the chapter website together, at http://muskieclub.com Walt Krause Walt 1788 Hwy 4 Shawnee we held our Fall Brawl P.O. Box 602 P.O. and Pres. Chuck Graf. 712-362-2501 (815) 529-1159 (815) 529-1159 DeKalb, IL 60115 th Estherville, IA 51334 815-756-3231 Ð Gary Dew Upper Great Plains Upper Great Membership Director Chapter 28 and 6 th Submitted by VP Gordon Campbell Meets: varies-call for schedule. 28 29 Meets 3rd Thursday , Legion Club, 1709 Okoboji Meets 3rd Milford, IA. Ave., On Saturday 15 fish were reported with a 45.5- The top five teams were as follows: First place The proceeds of all our tournaments this year to all Year Happy Holidays and Happy New Greetings from chapter 28. The weekend of Greetings from chapter 28. Tournament on Kinkaid Lake in Southern Illinois. Tournament boats that participated in this had 26 We water temperature was 58 The tournament. 25-mph-wind gust on Saturday had degrees. We The air temperature and light winds on Sunday. was in the 60s both days. the inch Muskie caught by Dane Garrett taking Sunday we had 5 fish big fish for the day. reported with a 45 inch Muskie caught by David 40 Allen. Out of the 20 fish caught, 8 were over inches. 4 went to the team of Jim Beaty/Dan Garrett with fish, Second place went to the team of Larry Third place went to Owens/Jan Prinsen with 3 fish, Hodge with 2 fish, the team of Jim Beasley/Jeff fourth place went to the team of Manuel Santa Cruz/John Kennedy with 2 fish, and fifth place went Alan with 1 fish Kelly/David Tom to the team of is going to purchasing a new 60-hp motor for our Thanks to every one lake biologist Shawn Hirst. who participated and helped to make this a big success. I hope to see you at the up coming sports shows and next year’s tournaments. UGP chapter members! Board Members finished the year by electing the chapter’soff 2006 will have a new president this year. We officers. Roberts who was elected Tim Congratulations to Dale As you all know, as the chapter president. we’d like to thank Muskies Inc. for the Inc. Muskies like to thank we’d symposium. members from our indication The attended, who Pat Marshall Lemon and Craig was a superb presentation.was that it also We including to our many sponsors owe appreciation D & Meltzer’s, Davis Tackle, Frank’s D marine, Jersey Marine, BK Lures, North Sports Shop, and Musky Grandma Lures Lamiglass, be the our club outings wouldn’t Innovations- you.same without over and I the 2005 season is like to add “ Well President Chuck Graf would successful year.hope everyone had a know I I enjoyed a great season.must say that I am I of this club.honored to be the president This the tournaments and year was perfect, organized and attended . fundraisers were well is appreciated and things The help I had this year could not have gone Gordon Campbell. so well without all of you especially V.P. 2006 is here the way do it all over again and enjoy it all so let’s through”. helped and offered and veteran who participated, to all members new In sum, thanks advice and support. November 5 annual Dick st Mark A Johnson

. Everyone is invited and New Jersey th [email protected] http://www.mi22.com/ Quad County Quad

[email protected] (815) 695-1494 Ð Dana Smith (815) 695-1494 P.O. Box 185, Plano, IL Box 185, Plano, P.O. 60545 .....January 2006 [email protected] [email protected]

17 22 VP Chairman, Chapter 17 & Communication Mark your calendars for 2/25/06 for our annual Plans are already in process for our Kid’s Keep those lines tight and release ‘em healthy! Chapter 17 raised nearly $2500 to be able to raised nearly $2500 Chapter 17 will take home the It appears that Kevin Nash to join would like to invite any MI member We NJ Muskies Inc. Chapter 22 had a productive

Meets 2nd Thursday, 7:30pm. Plano American Legion American 7:30pm. Plano Thursday, Meets 2nd

there are door prizes and raffles. $5.00 will be there are door prizes and raffles. the cost of the speakers. collected to help offset Be sure to bring a friend! awards banquet, 3/5/06 for our 21 Cole Breakfast Fundraiser, and 3/14/06 for our Cole Breakfast Fundraiser, A and fundraiser. raffle, annual seminar, week- long club outing is also being planned for 2006. Hog Roast, Fishing Shows, Fishing Day, fishing trips, and some new Sandwich Fair, Thanks to all of our fundraisers for 2006. we dedicated team members we are proud to say to have a balanced budget and plans are in place grow our membership even more in the next year. 36 MUSKIE stock 125 Muskies in our home waters in 2005. stock 125 Muskies in jars” asking idea to put “tip Thanks to Bob Hoyle’s at area businesses and to help “stock a muskie” our fundraisers by the a lot of hard work at even bigger in 2006! members we plan to go with a beauty from Lake biggest Illinois Muskie 46”. Mike Smith looks to Kinkaid measuring in at Chapter with a huge 50 be the top gun for our in MN. Vermilion 1/2” fish caught in Lake meeting where Don Dubin us at our December 8 Muskie Fishery and will talk about the Illinois of his beautiful show members some woodcarvings. January 12 meeting will bring in Richard Collin from the Ottawa River Charters Ontario, Canada to talk to our club. In February at we will have fisheries biologist Rob Hilsabeck our meeting on the 9 year. Craig Lemon reported that the NJDFW in our home waters. Muskies stocked over 11,000 The club once again conducted record fundraisers and continued financial support to the Muskie program.state’s like to thank We’d everyone at the NJDFW for all of their efforts. Fishing of course was excellent and two of our members recorded local catches of 50 inches. our friendships with fellow also broadened We anglers by enjoying activities and a growing The Knee Deep relationship with Chapter 50 and Club.T- produced sharp club Furthermore we shirts, educational posters and a new website library of pertinent complete with a photo gallery, articles and an expanded message board. Meeting attendance is up and new activities included weekly “ Muskie League” andmeeting at the hatchery. a considering an out of state trip for interested Nextmembers. year we’re Meetings will continue through May Arrowhead clubhouse the last at the Lake of the month at 8 pm.Tuesday As a chapter

CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS VIEWS & NEWS CHAPTER ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS VIEWS & NEWS CHAPTER ◆ CHAPTER NEWS & VIEWS & NEWS CHAPTER Fall Fishing on Lake Harriet by Jerry Judson, North Metro Chapter and Patti Jo Slack, Twin Cities Chapter

t was a brisk Friday evening on November 11, 2005 when Patti “Slacker” Slack and I decided to try some night trolling on Lake I Harriet for old toothy. The air temperature was 38 degrees and the water temperature was 45 degrees. The nice thing about this time of year is that there are very few boats on the water. When we arrived at 5:15pm, there were four boats on the lake. By the time we launched, they had all left the water, leaving our boat the only one on the lake. We started trolling at 5:30pm in 20 feet of water. Patti put on a walleye pattern Depth Raider and I put on a 10˝ Firetiger Believer. We let about 70 feet of line out and began trolling at 1.8 to 2 MPH. Since Harriet doesn’t allow outboards, you must use your electric motor to troll. In 20 feet of water we headed down the shoreline toward the south end. Instead of putting the rods in the holders, we decided to hold them ourselves and pump the rods giving the baits some extra action. It is quite an two cameras just incase something like this experience fishing at night on Lake Harriet with the As far as I can tell happens. We took two quick photos and got her commercial airliners flying over your head and the back in the water. We measured the girth at 21˝ and skyline of Minneapolis in the background. We from the MI website, the fish swam off. It was very exciting and we also would run the boat out as far as 30 to 40 feet of this is the largest have the whole thing on videotape. We put the lines water. Keeping an eye on both the front and back back out and started trolling again. The wind had locators looking for baitfish and suspended muskies. muskie caught and begun to calm and I noticed movement on the On this night we were seeing fish at about 10 to 15 registered out of surface of the water. I took out the hi-beam light to feet down. At about 6:00 pm I felt a “tap” on the take a look. The movement was coming from rod. I set the hook and felt the heavy weight on the Lake Harriet in bluegills that were suspended out over 20 to 25 feet rod. We both turned our headlamps on and Patti Minneapolis, MN of water. The school of bluegills was about 25 yards quickly reeled in her line and grabbed the net. wide and ran for about 150 yards long. We both When we got the fish in the net, Patti said “it’s since a 50 incher was could just imagine the muskies that were bigger than 50˝!” I unhooked the Believer and caught in 1999. underneath the school of bluegills. Unfortunately when I put it on the tape, the tail went over the 52˝ we couldn’t get another muskie to bite. ❖ mark! Patti grabbed my digital camera and was going to take a picture, but unfortunately the batteries were dead. Luckily, I carry

38 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 39 We did the trolling with no action, then came upon the first cove. We used the electric trolling motor and cast to shore—-kind of like Bass fishing….No action. We anchored at the end of the third cove about seventy-five feet from shore to have lunch. Rog announced, “I’m going to cast this Yellow Baluster near shore and let it set while I have a sandwich and pop.” “Sounds like a good idea; I’ll help you watch it while we have lunch.” KER-PLOP! The yellow Baluster went as it hit the water near the shore. Rog was just about to take his first bite of his sandwich….mouth wide open ready to savor that first bite when that yellow Baluster came flying out of the water followed by….you guessed it…a Tiger Muskie! Rog’s sandwich went into the drink as he dove for his outfit while I just sat there watching the commotion. I’m not exactly sure what happened, but this Tiger Muskie didn’t seem to have gotten THE BALUSTER MUSKIE LURES hooked; it just banged the lure with it’s shut mouth sending it flying. There was a tremendous splash as this fish hit the water with a belly & THE TIGER MUSKIE flop!! Rog thought it was hooked and tried for a hook set rearing back I have a lot of balusters in a shed that were once used to surround with his outfit an…. a deck before we made it into a room. I thought of cutting these “INCOMING!!” cried Rog. balusters up and using the pieces in the outside fireplace. Then, one We both ducked as the lure whizzed by! day my wife needed a few braces for the tomato plant cages, so I took We both looked down at the water and saw Rogs’ sandwich…a four of the balusters and cut about nine inches off each end and they second later there was a huge swirl and the sandwich was gone! fit properly. I looked at the nine inch pieces and did some deep From the little we saw of this fish, it appeared to be the same one thinking; like way down deep where the Muskies are found when the that went after the yellow Baluster lure. We agreed to this. weather get HOT! ‘Square Lures?’ I thought, ‘Naw…Hmmmm….I “Of all the luck!” Rog said, “We troll and cast all morning, then looked again at these nine inch pieces, Hmmmmm….I’m gonna give stop for lunch and a nice Tiger Muskie knocked that lure out of the it a try.’ water.” I bought some lure-making parts and got spray paint. I then “And don’t forget about your sandwich.” I reminded Rog. went to work on these lures; sanding, drilling holes and painting. I “That’s another thing….he got my sandwich…my lunch…now assembled the hardware and WOW!! The Baluster Lures! I mounted what?!? the metal lip on each lure differently for a variation of action. The I said, “Well, if you promise to keep that yellow Baluster in the colors are: a Redhead, Solid Yellow and Gold with a white belly. They boat, I’ll give you half of my sandwich.” would be Top Water. “Thanks.” Said Rog, “I am hungry.” Before I take these lures up to Lonesome Lodge, I thought I’d try I handed Rog half of my sandwich and as he took it in hand, he them out at a local lake that is suppose to have 36 inch Muskies in it. hesitated for a few moments…then looked at the sandwich, then at I invited my friend Rog to come along. He readily agreed. the water, then back at the sandwich. Well, we used the electric trolling motor to get us around the “No Rog.” I said, “We’re here to try out the Baluster lures, not lake and gave all the Baluster Lures their chance to attract a sandwiches.” Muskie….Nothing….no follows….not even a sighting. “Yes but,” Rog said and looked at the sandwich again, the water, “Must be a bad day.” Rog said. the yellow Baluster lure, then said, “You got any single hooks or a “I’d say. Tell you what, why don’t we go down to that Reservoir Quick Release Rig?” that I told you had Tiger Muskie stocked in it. I said. “I thought you were hungry.” I said as I took a bite of my “Good idea. What was that you told me about the Tiger Muskie sandwich.” stocked in that Reservoir.” Rog asked. “I am but….couldn’t I just use half of my half….?” “There were over 53,000 Tiger Muskie fingerlings stocked in “Don’t even give it a thought!” ❖ 1985 and 1986, but no reports of any catches or sightings in the past ten years.” I said. “I heard that all the Tiger Muskies are Sterile Males.” Rog said. “I got info from the DNR that only the Males are Sterile; the females are Fertile. “Hmmmmm……you thinking what I’m thinking Rog?” “Yep! There ought to be some pretty good sized Tiger Muskies in there by now. “I totally agree.” Sooooo, the following week, we went. We wanted to get an early start fishing in the morning so we rented a room near the ramp and a place to have breakfast and get sandwiches and pop for our boat lunch. We were water bound at daybreak. We decided to motor troll for the first hour or so and then hit the coves for some casting. We had heard that a guide said, “They’re in the coves.” 40 MUSKIE.....January 2006 www.muskiesinc.org January 2006.....MUSKIE 41 Nice shot of Jason Smith from the 1st Michael Fiddick caught this 51.25 Wisconsin chapter: “This picture is inch fish October 5 at 9am on really neat with my kids, Sierra age 7 and What would the Member Photos be without Dobber Stott sent in this beautiful, energy- Holcombe Flowage, WI on a Suick in Austin age 3, enjoying the future of the representation from that Fargo-Moorhead packed photograph of son Nate’s 49-incher 4 feet of water. “It's my first fish in sport. Took them out smallmouth fishing crowd? Shawn Early sent in this nice caught in October in a Twin Cities Metro the 50 inch class. I am totally beside and they each caught one the same size release shot of Don Schrom putting a Lake. They also have a nice photo of the myself and just thrilled after seeking that afternoon.” Note there are four hands 48-incher back into the water. released fish swimming away. the magic number for so long!” on that fish. Kids like to touch, don’t they?

Brad Revering reports: “This summer my 10 year old son Kevin Johnson from Chapter 22, New Jersey thought he Kurt Hostager caught what just might be the prettiest fish ever Zach caught and released his first Muskie with an orange was conducting a typical water release of this 42-incher in the photo contest, a 47-inch tiger with exceptional markings and black mud puppy on Lake Vermilion. The fish was when with a flick of its tail the lively Muskie rocketed back out of Lake Elmo in Minnesota. “I hope to catch a new state 42.5" long and an easy 20#'s. Zach was so excited (OK to its lair leaving Kevin drenched and in need of a towel. record hybrid some year in this lake,” says Kurt. And well he so was I) he was shaking!” Pictures by Gordon Campbell. might Ð Lake Elmo holds the current Minnesota record.

Shawn Kellet holding a 38-incher he caught during the John Stevenson sent in a fine photo of Deb Stauffer, Chad Severts caught the longest fish in the International Twin Cities Chapter’s annual “Capable Partners Outing” Mahomet Illinois, who caught this 41 1/2-incher on the Tournament last September, this sleek 54-incher out of last spring on Lake Independence. Stan Koich, who is “other” Lake of the Woods, the one in her home state. Leech Lake. He got it with a brand new Buck-A-Boo always present at these events, took the picture. When A dangerous lake apparently Ð last year a 44 inch Muskie inline spinner with red marabou/yellow bucktail and Stan finally catches one himself, and he will, there will be almost pulled in a seven-year old fishing from shore, chartreuse blade with a splash of red. The fish was a major celebration. who later claimed that it was a “shark.” Chad’s’ third Muskie over 50 inches, all in 2005. Proper Muskie Holding Techniques for MUSKIE Magazine Photos PREFERRED including Covers, Article Support, FOR PHOTOS Photo Contest Entries & Member Photos

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