6th annual Al’s Musky Challenge kicks off
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) — Thursday afternoon, the Rotary Club of La Crosse kicked off the 6th annual Al’s Musky Challenge.
The fundraiser runs now through September 30.
Rotarian Al Louis will fish on Lake Vermilion in Northern Minnesota over the next few months working to catch as many muskies as he can.
He’ll be joined by his fishing partners, who are both named A.J., as well as sponsors and fellow Rotarians.
Last year, they caught a total 86 muskies.
Throughout this challenge, people can contribute donations or make a pledge per fish caught in the boat.
His efforts last year netted $120,000. Overall, the challenge has raised more that $500,000.
This year’s beneficiaries are the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse and the Family and Children’s Center.
“It’s just to give kids opportunities in the Coulee Region. Like I said, this started with David Amborn and myself, six years ago. As you know we lost David three years ago,” Louis said. “We kind of do this in his memory now. His tagline was ‘damnit, it’s for the kids.’ Today’s kids are tomorrow’s leaders, so let’s give them the opportunity.”
Making the challenge even more fun, Louis said if he catches a musky over 53 inches, one over 50 pounds or breaks last year’s total he will shave his head.
He also said if someone donates more than $10,000, they will get to go fishing with Louis and come up with something crazy for Louis to do.
You can find more information, by clicking here.
The story originally aired on WXOW on July 25, 2024.
LA CROSSE (WKBT) — A fishing challenge is reeling in funds for good causes in the Coulee region.
Al’s Musky Challenge is an annual fundraising event with a unique premise.
Every summer, Rotary Club member Al Louis and his fellow contestants embark on a fishing trip to catch as many muskies as they can.
Donors can give a one-time amount or pledge an amount per catch.
That means the more fish Al and his fellow anglers catch, the more money they raise for local nonprofits.
Al said he appreciates the chance to combine two of his passions — fishing and community fundraising.
“I get to fish for the cause, have fun, see nature, drive around — well, get driven around — in the boat, with loons, and have a great time. Catch fish and bring money back to our community and support the youth of the Coulee Region. It’s a lot of fun,” said Al Louis.
Funds raised this year will support the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse and Family & Children’s Center.
Last year, the challenge raised about $120,000.
To donate, go to the Rotary Club’s website.
The story originally aired on WKBT on July 25, 2025.
