Muskellunge are not the kind of fish most would choose to introduce a first-time angler to the sport. It takes hard work, a lot of time, the right tools and patience before they may even catch a glimpse of the huge predator fish following a giant lure.

But for the angler looking for a challenge and an adrenaline rush, a few local lakes offer the chance.

Based on increasing numbers of youth entering the Brainerd Lakes Chapter of Muskies Inc. sixth annual High School Muskie Regional Fishing Tournament held June 10 on Lake Alexander, it appears more young anglers are up for the challenge.

This year 32 students from Brainerd, Pequot Lakes, Pierz, Little Falls, Royalton, Sauk Rapids-Rice and Zimmerman competed, according to Brainerd chapter president Jim Kath.

Pairs of anglers headed out in 16 boats in search of the fish of 10,000 casts during the tournament. Among the thousands of casts that took place from 6 a.m. to noon, only one muskie was netted, a 43.25-inch fish caught by Peter Beam of Little Falls. The photo and stories behind that one fish had the attention of the whole group.