Tiger Muskies and Family Bonding: A North Dakota Fishing Tale

Incredible Fishing Day: A Father-Daughter Adventure

On a recent fishing expedition at Audubon Lake, North Dakota, a father-daughter duo made headlines as they caught not one, but two near-record tiger muskies. Kim Fundingsland, a seasoned angler and a respected outdoor writer, and his daughter Kelli demonstrated not only their fishing prowess but also the precious bonding moments that come with such adventures.

Kim, who has fished Audubon Lake over 60 times in just 2025, was determined to show Kelli the thrill of muskie fishing. This specific lake is known for its diverse fish population, including smallmouth bass, pike, and of course, muskies. With a 16,600-acre expanse, it's a treasure trove for fishers seeking the thrill of catching elusive predators.

The Fishing Technique: Harnessing the Right Strategy

The pair focused their efforts on a specific hump in the lake, known for its sandy and rocky bottom where baitfish commonly gather. Kim expertly cast a large, homemade muskie spinner, and when he saw a muskie following it, he knew this could be the moment they dreamed about.

As he reeled the lure, excitement surged when the muskie struck. "It jumped alongside the boat, splashing us both!" Kim recalled. With seasoned skill, Kelli quickly grabbed the net, ensuring that they wouldn’t lose this potential record-breaker. They measured the first catch at 45.25 inches, a fish that came tantalizingly close to breaking North Dakota's long-standing record of 45 inches set back in 1975.

The Joy of Catch and Release Fishing

Under North Dakota regulations, all muskies shorter than 48 inches must be released. Kim, however, affirmed his commitment to conservation, noting he would have opted to release the fish even if it were of record size, demonstrating the everyday ethics of responsible anglers.

After catching his impressive muskie, Kelli was eager to find her own. With Kim’s guidance, they returned to the nearby hump, where after several casts, she hooked another fish. Initially thinking it was a pike, the moment turned thrilling as Kim identified it as another stunning muskie.

A Fishing Expedition with a Strong Legacy

This incredible day of fishing wasn’t just about the size of the muskies caught, but also the memorable experience shared between Kim and Kelli. Fishing experts note that personal connections formed during such activities can provide lifelong memories, strengthening family bonds.

Using teamwork and communication, they netted Kelli's fish, measuring 43.25 inches. They took pictures, high-fived, and basked in the glory of their successful day on the water, a beautiful testament to the joys of family fishing outings.

The Bigger Picture: Conservation and Fishery Management

With over two decades of fish stocking initiatives led by the North Dakota Department of Fish and Game, the state has seen the growth of muskie and tiger populations. Conservationists advocate for such responsible fishing that enhances the ecosystem and maintains the species for future anglers.

North Dakota’s rivers and lakes might not be the first places one thinks of for trophy fish, but experiences like Kim and Kelli’s tell a story of untapped potential. Anglers looking to partake in thrilling, quality fishing should consider rivers and lakes known for their thriving populations, such as Audubon Lake, as they can lead to unforgettable adventures.

Join the Adventure: Start Your Own Fishing Journey

If you're inspired by Kim and Kelli's story, why not plan your own fishing trip? Exploring lakes in North Dakota or your local waters can lead to your own memorable experiences. Gather your gear, invite a friend or family member, and set out for a day filled with fishing and fun!