About
The Shrine to Anglers in Hayward, Wisconsin is home to the world’s largest muskellunge sculpture, a giant muskie statue measuring a staggering 143 feet long and rising four‑and‑a‑half stories into the air, hand‑crafted from steel, reinforced concrete, and fiberglass as the iconic centerpiece of the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum.
The massive gaping maw of the muskie serves as an observation deck overlooking the museum grounds and nearby Lake Hayward. Within the belly of the beast you can explore the Hall of Fame’s extensive exhibits featuring thousands of vintage fishing lures, antique rods and reels, classic outboard motors, record-setting freshwater fish taxidermy mounts, and maybe even a sasquatch. The complex draws anglers and curious travelers alike to one of northern Wisconsin’s most unique photo‑worthy landmarks and educational attractions.
The shrine also has a fascinating place in pop culture history: it was prominently featured in the 1980s horror comedy Blood Hook (filmed on location in Hayward) as the fictional headquarters of the annual Muskie Madness competition.
Photos
Giant Muskie Statue in Hayward, WI
Giant muskie statue in Blood Hook (1986)
