January 24, 2025

As you can see from the Wisconsin Singers image on page 6, winter is here at the Fishing Hall of Fame. We continue to run behind regarding snowfall, but our temperatures have been considerably below normal. This morning, we were 23 degrees (actual) below zero. As a good friend of mine likes to say, “brrrrrrrabbitt!” Staring at the thermometer this morning, while drinking my coffee flavored caffein, I was so glad that my duties as your executive director require me to generally work inside!

Also, on page 4 of this issue please notice that we are still in the midst of upgrading our facilities in Hayward. Just before winter descended on our unique little spot on the map, we were able to pour the cement for our new stairwell and ramp leading up to the Big Musky. The old stairwell dated back to 1980. Suffice to say, it was time. Our plan is to finish the project this March and then promptly move on to rehabbing the walls and floor of the Big Musky’s 80,000-gallon reflection pond. If any of our readers/members have an “in” with Mother Nature please put in a good word for us. We are going to need her to cooperate this spring. Fingers crossed!

On March 8th Hall Selection Committee member Jim Grandt and I will be inducting 2025 Hall of Famers Daryl Christensen and Mike Norris. The ceremony will take place at the Journal Sentinel Milwaukee Sport Show. The event will commence at Noon at the Hawg Trough. This great show, as always, will be held at the State Fair Park, West Allis, Wisconsin (see page 10). Jim and I are very thankful to show management for providing this wonderful venue to us. If you live in the vicinity of Milwaukee and you’re feeling a little “cabin feverish” get out of the house and join us. It’s a great show and Daryl and Mike deserve a great welcome into the fraternity of Fresh Water Fishing’s Hall of Famers. Welcome aboard.

A few years ago, Grandt Rods spearheaded a Hall membership drive which has really helped in terms of keeping up our supporting membership numbers and revenue generated from this program. Last year, this program provided over $16,000.00 of new income. I am excited to announce the renewal of this program for 2025. Not only has this program been renewed, it is being expanded. Hall of Famers Mark Martin, Al Gagliarducci, Mike Norris, and Jim Grandt have all added outstanding prizes for the drawing to be held on November 1st. Thank you, guys, it is very much appreciated. For additional details about this program please go to page 4 of this issue or go to our website www.freshwater-fishing.org.

Until the spring.

Emmett A. Brown, Jr. | Executive Director