National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame facts for kids
Fiberglass muskie
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| Established | 1960 |
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| Location | Hayward, Wisconsin |
The Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame is a special place in Hayward, Wisconsin, in the United States. It's like a museum and a hall of fame all in one, celebrating everything about freshwater fishing. Each year, about 100,000 people visit this exciting spot. One of its most famous features is a huge, 143-foot-long sculpture of a muskie fish, which is the biggest muskie sculpture in the world!
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Discovering the Museum
This amazing hall of fame was started in 1960, and its main buildings were built in 1976. It sits on a 6-acre piece of land in Hayward, close to Wisconsin Highway 27. The museum has seven buildings, covering about 25,000 square feet.
The Giant Muskie Sculpture
One of the most exciting parts is the 143-foot-long fiberglass sculpture of a jumping muskie fish. It's so big that you can actually walk inside it! The lower jaw of this giant fish is an observation deck. From here, visitors can look out and enjoy the view. It's even been used for special events like weddings!
What's Inside the Museum?
Inside the museum, you'll find many interesting exhibits. There are over 400 mounted fish on display. These fish have been preserved using a method called taxidermy, so they look just like they did when they were alive. You can also see about 300 outboard motors, which are engines used to power boats. The Hall of Fame also keeps official records for the largest freshwater fish ever caught in the United States and around the world.
Honoring Fishing Legends
The Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame honors people who have made a big difference in the world of freshwater fishing. Individuals are chosen for induction in four main groups:
- Enshrinement Programs: These are for people who have had a national or worldwide impact on freshwater fishing. So far, 65 individuals have been honored in this way.
- Legendary Anglers: This group recognizes 78 people who have made a significant impact on fishing in their region or state.
- Fishing Guide Recognition: This category celebrates 15 people who have worked as professional fishing guides, helping others enjoy the sport.
- Organization Recognition: This honors groups and organizations that have contributed to the sport of fishing. Twenty-four organizations have been recognized.
Some famous people who have been inducted include Juliana Berners, Ole Evinrude, Virgil Ward, and Izaak Walton. Even the famous baseball player Ted Williams, who was also known for his great fishing skills, is in the Hall of Fame!
Gallery
See also
- List of Wisconsin fishing records
