DNR certifies record northern

An angler caught and released a 46 1/4- inch northern pike on Mille Lacs Lake that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources certified as a tie with the current catch-and-release state record.

Brad Lila caught and released the fish Jan. 22.

“I set the hook as the line was quickly peeling out,” Lila said. “Immediately, I knew it was a very large fish because it peeled out drag and there was no stopping it. After about 10 minutes of fighting the fish, I knew that it might take more than me to land it.”

Lila hollered and waved for help and two nearby anglers came to his aid. Lila tried to get...