The article, in the April issue, about how the 50 inch club is expanding, do to some of the recent catches on Kinkaid,now makes the list of 41 muskie hunter in Illinois. Colby Simms of Missouri, and his muskie of 51 inches/37 lbs, took the IMA Release Trophy of 2009. Are we not forgetting all of the past muskie hunters who should be included in this article as well. Who are the 9 Anglers of Shelbyville, and the 6 Anglers of Lake Storey, and the 5 muskie hunter of Evergreen.Did the IMA award them as well for their efforts, for this is the first time I have ever heard of a 50 inch club in Illinois. So now, when you catch a muskie in Illinois, and its 50 inches or over, you have to report it to the IMA, better yet fill out a green card, so the state knows of your catch. Most of the muskie anglers do not even fill the green cards out anyway. What are the regulation for this award anyway, do you have to live here in Illinois?Do you have to be fishing for muskie, at the time of the catch. Can you use live bait?
I sure the IMA, will agree, that every muskie caught in this state, 50 inches and above, helps to promote the fishery, but you could also promote the men and women, who have caught them, and share the experience with the public....Do you not Agree!!!!!