Northwoods Day Trip: The World’s Largest Muskie

Northwoods Day Trip: The World’s Largest Muskie, Hayward’s Fishing Hall of Fame

Series: Northwoods Day Trips

Destination: National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, Hayward, Wisconsin Read more Price County stories from across the web. After a day on the water, Ripsaw Saloon serves the best fish frys in the county.

—

What Is It?

The National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame is a one-of-a-kind museum and shrine to freshwater angling. And its most recognizable feature is a 143-foot-long, 4.5-story-tall muskie sculpture that you can walk inside and view the surrounding area from the fish’s mouth. Yes, you read that correctly: a giant muskie with a viewing platform in its mouth.

The Hall of Fame complex includes four museums covering every aspect of freshwater fishing history, including antique tackle, vintage outboard motors, world-record fish mounts, and an inductee hall honoring legendary anglers and conservationists. It’s Hayward’s signature attraction and the most photographed roadside landmarks in Wisconsin.

—

Why It’s Worth the Drive

It’s a building shaped like a giant fish that you can stand inside. What more do you need? The muskellunge is the iconic fish of northern Wisconsin. The “fish of 10,000 casts”, and this place celebrates everything about it. Plus, Hayward is a great little Northwoods town with legit supper clubs, breweries, and the Hayward Lakes area for fishing, hiking, and boating. It makes for an easy, fun day trip that combines roadside kitsch with genuine educational value.

—

Directions from Price County

From Phillips:
– Take WI-13 north toward Park Falls (about 22 miles)
– Continue on WI-13 north through Butternut and Glidden
– Turn left (west) onto County Road C near Glidden
– Follow C west to US-63 (about 10 miles)
– Take US-63 south into Hayward (about 20 miles)
– The Fishing Hall of Fame is on Main Street (WI-27/US-63) in downtown Hayward
– Total distance: ~55 miles | Drive time: ~1 hour 10 minutes

From Park Falls:
– Take WI-13 north through Butternut and Glidden
– Turn left (west) onto County Road C
– Follow C to US-63 south
– Follow US-63 into Hayward
– Total distance: ~45 miles | Drive time: ~55 minutes

—

What to Expect

The Giant Muskie: 143 feet long, 4.5 stories tall. Climb to the top for views of Hayward and the lakes
– Four museum buildings: Angling Hall of Fame, Tackle Museum, Outboard Motor Museum, and the World Record Fish Display
– Inductee Hall: Honoring the greats of freshwater fishing. Legends like Al and Ron Lindner, Larry Dahlberg, and others
– Gift shop: The best-stocked fishing-themed gift shops you’ll ever see
– Annual events: The Hall of Fame hosts the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and other events throughout the year
– Photo op: Standing in the muskie’s mouth for a picture is basically mandatory

—

Pro Tips

Summer is peak: Hayward is a tourist town, June through August brings crowds, but that’s when everything is fully open
– The muskie climb: The stairs inside the fish are narrow. Not recommended if you’re claustrophobic
– Combine with: The Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame and the Hayward Supper Club circuit make a perfect Saturday
– Nearby attractions: The Namekagon River (part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway) is right there for canoeing or tubing, and the Birkebeiner Trail is great for hiking
– Lunch spot: The Brick House Grill or Anglers Bar & Grill. Both solid Hayward choices
– Winter option: Hayward is the home of the American Birkebeiner (largest cross-country ski race in North America), the museum is open year-round

—

Distance from Park Falls city center: ~45 miles
Suggested time needed: 1.5-3 hours at the museum (half day with drive and lunch)
Difficulty level: Easy (ground level accessible, muskie climb has stairs)
Cost: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 children (prices may vary. Check website)

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish species are most popular in Price County?

Price County is known for walleye, musky, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and trout. The Flambeau River system and over 300+ lakes provide diverse fishing opportunities throughout the county.

Do I need a Wisconsin fishing license in Price County?

Yes, anyone 16 or older needs a Wisconsin fishing license. As of 2026, an annual resident license costs $20 and a non-resident annual license costs $50. Licenses are available at GoWild.WI.gov and local bait shops.

When does fishing season open in Price County?

The general Wisconsin fishing season opens the first Saturday in May for walleye, northern pike, and bass. Musky season opens the Saturday nearest Memorial Day. Trout seasons vary by classification. Ice fishing runs from January through March.

📊 Price County Data & Demographics
Live stats on population, income, housing, employment, and more — updated monthly from Census data.

View Price County Stats →