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If you’re road-tripping through northwest Wisconsin with the family, one stop always steals the show: the world’s largest muskie sculpture at the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in Hayward, WI.
This giant fish—143 feet long and four stories tall—is one of Wisconsin’s most iconic roadside attractions. Families can climb inside, learn about the region’s fishing history, and soak in a truly one-of-a-kind view from the muskie’s “mouth.”
Whether you’re planning a lake getaway, driving between cabins, or looking for a quirky pit stop, here’s everything you need to know.
If quirky pit stops are your jam, you’ll flip for our Wisconsin fun guide.
Quick Facts About the World’s Largest Muskie Statue
- Location: Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, Hayward, Wisconsin
- Length: 143 ft
- Height: 4 stories
- Nickname: “The Big Muskie” / “The Musky Museum”
- Claim to Fame: Largest muskie sculpture in the world
- Family-Friendly Features: Climb inside, museum exhibits, playground, giant fish statues
Exploring the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame
Plan for 60–90 minutes on the museum grounds. Families love the mix of outdoor exploring, kid-friendly photo ops, and old-school fishing exhibits.
You’ll find:
- Well-kept gardens and memorial benches
- Dozens of giant fish sculptures
- A small playground with a fish seesaw, swing, and tunnel
- The main museum building with hands-on displays
Inside, kids can peek at:
- Legendary anglers and fishing world records
- Old-fashioned commercial fishing equipment
- Rare lures and vintage rods
- A recreated “Old Fishing Shack”
- The quirky Motor Graveyard, featuring engines dating to the 1920s
Climb Inside the Big Muskie
This is the part your kids will remember forever.
Walk up the staircase into the belly of the muskie to see:
- Vintage fishing rods
- Collectible lures
- Historical displays
Then climb to the top for:
- A great view of the museum grounds
- A fun photo op with the muskie’s teeth
- A glimpse of Hayward’s beautiful Northwoods landscape
More Things To Do Near the Big Muskie (Hayward, WI)
Turn your stop into a half-day adventure. Hayward is full of fun, family-friendly activities:
- Scheer’s Lumberjack Village – Mini-golf, shows, and casual eats
- Hayward Amusement Center – Go-karts, rock-climbing wall, and arcade games
- Main Street Hayward – Old-fashioned candy store, boutiques, ice cream
- Area Lakes – Ideal for fishing, kayaking, and family picnics
Hayward also hosts two well-known annual events:
- American Birkebeiner Cross-Country Ski Race (February)
- Lumberjack World Championships (July)
Is the World’s Largest Muskie Worth the Stop?
If your family loves quirky Wisconsin attractions, fun road trip moments, or anything oversized, the Big Muskie is absolutely worth it. Kids love climbing inside the sculpture, and parents appreciate the mix of nostalgia and outdoorsy charm.
Many families say it ends up being one of their favorite unexpected road-trip memories.
Know Before You Go
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for outdoor exploring
- Admission: Check the museum’s website for current rates
- Parking: Free
- Bathrooms: Located in the main museum building
- Nearby Food: Main Street Hayward cafés and diners
- Other Tips: Bring water and your camera—there are lots of fun giant fish statues for photos
More Things To Do
Drop these naturally in the intro or the “More Things To Do” section:
- Wacky and Wonderful Wisconsin Day Trips
- Best Day Trips From Milwaukee for Families
- Best Family Vacations in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Dells with Kids
- Our Wisconsin Fun Guide
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
