Angler Lands First Catch-and-Release Record for Northern Pike in Minnesota
OutdoorHub Reporters 10.31.18
Just because the rut is getting ready to kick into high gear in the woods, doesn’t mean a catch-and-release record can’t be broken out on the water.
This brute of a northern pike was caught by angler Maddy Ogg, who’s a member of the Women Anglers of Minnesota on Mille Lacs Lake. This fish is significant, because it sets the first northern pike state record in the Department of Natural Resources’ catch-and-release record category.
The 43½ inch pike was caught on October 6 with companions Mike Buckingham and Jenni Buckingham aboard to witness.
“On the way to the lake that morning, we saw eight bald eagles and shortly after we started fishing, we landed a double – I knew it was going to be a good day of fishing,” Ogg said.
She was right. A few hours later, while trolling the edges of plants in about 12-feet of water, Maddy had a strike that let her know immediately she’d hooked into something big.
“I had to reel fast because the fish swam towards the boat, causing nearly constant slack in the line,” Ogg said.
She successfully landed the pike and now claims the first Minnesota catch-and-release state record for the species.
There’s no denying this is a stellar catch for the young angler, however Minnesota DNR points out that Mille Lacs Lake holds a near legendary reputation for holding an abundance of trophy fish. Pike in the lake reportedly measure in the mid-to-high 40 inch range and can exceed 20 pounds!
For those wondering, there are two kinds of Minnesota state records: one for catching and keeping the biggest fish in each species based on certified weight; and the other for the length of a caught and released muskellunge, northern pike, lake sturgeon or flathead catfish.
