Minnesota Master Angler - Matt Johnson
Matt Johnson did, on January 21, 2012, caught and Released by sportfishing method from Minnesota waters a 41.00" / 19 lb Pike - Northern and is hereby recognized as an official Minnesota Master Angler.
Fish Catch Details
- Angler Name: Matt Johnson
- Angler Home: Blaine, MN
- Date of Catch: January 21, 2012
- County: Mille Lacs
- Lake/River: Mille Lacs
- Species: Pike - Northern
- Size: 41.00" / 19 lb
- Catch Was: Released
- Catch Story: Fishing out of Eddys resort on the south shore of Mille Lacs, I had a tip up set and we were in a sleeper house playing poker. I decided to check the tip ups. The flag was not up, and the whole tip up was frozen in the hole. I kicked it to loosen it and noticed half my line was gone. I gave the line a tug and realized i had something on the line, but it wasn't fighting much, so I assumed it was small. After about 30 seconds of pulling I saw the body and realized it was a big fish. A few seconds later i was able to guide the head into the hole, and without hesitation I stuck my hand in and pulled him up. It was an incredibly easy catch, with very little fight whatsoever. I assume he had been on the line for awhile but the flag was frozen down and never triggered, so the fish was likely already tired. I took pictures, measured him, and promptly released him. It was the best fish of my life.
- Witness Name: Nathan Johnson
- Witness Home: Andover, MN
Official Certificate
