(Provided by Michigan DNR)

The state-record Great Lakes muskellunge caught by Joseph Seeberger of Portage, Mich. lasdt fall has now been listed as a world record by the International Committee of the Modern Day Muskellunge World Record Program (MDMWRP).

MDMWRP is a committee of muskellunge scientists, industry leaders, anglers and outdoor media personalities that formed in 2006. The program facilitates the recording and verification of muskellunge world records, covering a current void of record availability to North American muskellunge anglers for fish in the 58- to 68-pound range. This range has been chosen because it is considered the maximum ultimate range of growth for this species. Prior to Seeberger’s submission, there had not been a MDMWRP world-record entry verified.

Seeberger caught the fish on Lake Bellaire in Antrim County. The DNR verified the record and documented that the fish weighed 58 pounds. Although the DNR did not measure the length (state records are determined by weight only), the angler measured the fish at a length of 59 inches with a flexible tape. Later in the day, a taxidermist reported the length at 58 inches.

The MDMWRP is one of many organizations that recognize world-record catches. Many of these organizations differ on their required criteria.