We quickly measured and photographed the fish, and returned it to the lake. Very few muskies are kept each year, and when one is, it's well over 30 pounds. This policy of releasing fish has resulted in more and bigger fish being available. So far this year, in just four trips since getting my charter-boat license, we have landed 38 muskies. Only one fish was kept, and it weighed 32 pounds.
Most people choose to put 'em back.
McKenzie and I took photos, and Rinckey and Stachecki landed fish. We hooked five fish during the storm-shortened day, and landed four. Muskie fishing is grand sport, and it is getting better each year. Steve VanAssche promotes releasing big muskies, and his clients agree with that philosophy. I have nothing against a client keeping a 30-pounder for a trophy mount, but I've taken people fishing who choose to release all trophy fish.