Lake Trout Record Broken Again: A Guide's Unprecedented Streak
Ethan Waytashek, a highly successful Lake Superior trout guide, has once again made headlines as his client, Joseph Bouta, reeled in a new Minnesota catch-and-release lake trout record. This monumental catch, measuring an impressive 45.5 inches, marks the fourth time clients under Waytashek's guidance have established new state records in recent years. His remarkable consistency in locating and helping anglers land these trophy-sized fish has left the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources struggling to update their record books quickly enough to keep pace with his unparalleled success.
Waytashek's incredible streak dates back to April 2024, when Kelsey Vanderheyden set a new record with a 42.5-inch lake trout. This was followed in March 2025 by Isaiah Bartlett's 43.25-inch catch, further cementing Waytashek's reputation. Most recently, in April 2026, Matthew Hammer briefly held the record with a 44-inch fish before Bouta's even larger catch in May of the same year. Each of these record-breaking fish was caught under Waytashek's expert guidance on Lake Superior, demonstrating his deep understanding of the lake and its elusive, large trout population.
The latest record-setting excursion, on May 9, saw Waytashek, Bouta, and Bouta’s son Andrew embark on their fishing trip despite challenging weather conditions. Originally planning to fish in Michigan waters, strong winds forced a change of plans, leading them to launch from Two Harbors, Minnesota. Waytashek suggested focusing on catching eater-sized trout, with a chance for a larger one, and his clients readily agreed. It was during this trip that Joseph Bouta, who had never caught a lake trout before, landed two fish within minutes of each other, the second of which turned out to be the new record. Waytashek's expertise was evident not only in his choice of location but also in his use of fresh smelt, netted just days before, as bait.
When the record-breaking trout struck, Waytashek immediately recognized its potential size from his depth finder. After a ten-minute struggle, he netted the fish, measuring it at 45.5 inches. The anglers meticulously documented the catch with photographs for official verification before carefully releasing the fish back into Lake Superior, a testament to Waytashek's commitment to conservation. The Minnesota DNR has since certified Bouta's catch, further solidifying Waytashek's position as a legendary guide in the state's fishing community.
The repeated success of Ethan Waytashek's clients in breaking Minnesota's catch-and-release lake trout records highlights a growing trend among anglers who prioritize the preservation of large, mature fish. The state's adoption and expansion of catch-and-release record categories reflect this shift, allowing fishermen to be recognized for their achievements without compromising the health of the fish population. Waytashek's consistent ability to find these remarkable specimens underscores his unparalleled skill and knowledge, making him a pivotal figure in the world of Lake Superior lake trout fishing.