We’ve all heard some doozy fish tales.
“I didn’t have a camera, but that thing was huge!”
“Grandpa once caught a beast that was longer than his Oldsmobile.”
But where is the biggest fish tail of them all?
Look no further than the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum in Hayward.
The Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum complex is a place that celebrates and promotes freshwater sportfishing.
The Hall of Fame also recognizes and honors people, organizations, and groups that have made important contributions to the sport.
They keep track of records and publish information about freshwater fishing achievements.
The main attraction of the museum complex is a significant structure known as the “Shrine to Anglers.” You’ve probably seen an image of this iconic building on a postcard.
This impressive landmark is constructed from concrete, steel, and fiberglass. But that’s not what makes it noteworthy.
The building is shaped like a leaping muskellunge! That’s a type of fish we in Wisconsin affectionately call a Muskie.
They grow pretty big in the lakes of Northern Wisconsin. But nowhere near the 143 foot length of this tourist attraction!
Inside the structure, there is a museum. More than 20 people can fit onto the observation platform in the open jaws of the fish!
Adjacent to the Muskie, there is a museum complex consisting of four buildings.
These buildings house a collection of over 50,000 vintage and historical fishing tools, including lures, rods, reels, and other angling accessories.
It’s heaven for the angler in your family.
Visitors can also view approximately 300 mounted freshwater fish specimens.
The museum also houses around 1,000 vintage outboard motors, including Evinrude’s first production outboard motor from 1909.
This fish tale is absolutely true.
The Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum sure is a keeper!
For directions, information about local accommodations, and more, see: https://www.freshwater-fishing.org/
