Winners from the 2024 Hodag Musky Challenge. From left, RIA rink manager Brett Aylesworth, third place team Bartz/Bartz, first place team Gropengiser/Haenel, second place team Lemmer/Sheldon, and Northwoods United Way Director Nancy Sattler.
For the Star Journal
RHINELANDER – The Northwoods United Way and the Rhinelander Ice Association hosted the Hodag Musky Challenge Sept. 20-22, raising over $16,000 to be shared with the community. This is the sixth year the two agencies have paired up to run the event.
The Northwoods United Way serves human services agencies in Oneida, Vilas, Forest and Price counties. NWUW hosts fundraisers throughout the year, accepts applications for funding, interviews prospective recipients and then distributes upwards of $100,000 annually.
The Rhinelander Ice Association provides youth the opportunity to take part in an activity that builds confidence, character, communication skills, and social skills, as well as enhancing physical fitness. Scholarships are provided each year through donation dollars.
“This year we had 112 boats and 224 anglers competing for over $22,000 in prize money on eight area lakes,” said Nancy Sattler, executive director for Northwoods United Way. “Lakes included this year were the Sugar Camp Chain, Moen Lake Chain, Pelican Lake, Crescent Lake, Lake George, Julia, Rhinelander Flowage and Bearskin. Thirty-nine muskies were registered during the two days and fish were caught on every lake.”
This year’s HMC featured repeat winners.
“Dan Gropengiser and Jarrod Haenel reeled in three musky on Bearskin Lake that were 36.5, 40 and 41.5 inches long,” said Brett Aylesworth, RIA rink manager. “This duo also won the event in 2019.”
Second place went to Craig Lemmer and Bobby Sheldon, with two fish from Moen Lake Chain. They also had the largest fish registered of the tournament at 46 inches. Third place went to brothers Derek Bartz and Travis Bartz, who also had three fish from Bearskin.
The event brings anglers from throughout the midwest and is growing each year.
“It is great to see so many returning, and new registrants each year,” said Sattler. “It has become an annual event for many families and friends to attend. Next year’s tournament will be Sept. 26-28.”
Follow the HMC on Facebook, or hodagmuskychallenge.com. Title sponsor for the event is Shoeder’s Marine, along with sponsors Nicolet Bank, L & M Fleet Supply and U.S. Army.
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