Northland Landmarks: Part 1

World's Largest Musky

The town of Hayward, Wisconsin is home to legendary Musky.

Four world record musky have been caught in the area, including the world record for rod and reel, all tackle. 

In 1949 Cal Johnson landed the current world record on the Chippewa Flowage and put Hayward on the map.

Every year since the town has celebrated Muskyfest, in June.

Years after the catch the Freshawter Fishing Hall of Fame was established in Hayward and as its centerpiece, the world’s largest musky, an observation deck and display area, was erected in the garden. 

The big musky, and the fishing hall of fame, draw approximately 50,000 people each year, combine that with Muskyfests more than 35,000 visitors, and the two events spur the economy of an otherwise quiet community. 

Fisherman return year after year, because they know that next world record musky, could be anywhere on the flowage.