Let the big one go, and you could earn the distinction of Master Angler, thanks to a program operated by the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame and sponsored in part by the Department of Natural Resources.
The Master Angler Program encourages catch and release by recognizing anglers for their trophy catches. Since its inception in 2003, the program has awarded thousands of anglers with Master Angler certificates for measuring, photographing, and releasing trophy fish, says program director Jim Gerchy. Master Anglers who catch qualifying fish also receive a posting of their achievement at the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame in Brainerd as well as a listing in the Master Angler Annual, an online publication produced by the hall.
All licensed Minnesota anglers and residents under age 16 may participate. For program rules visit Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame.
Michael A. Kallok,
editorial assistant
