Remembering “Mr. Muskie” by Beth Underwood
Submitted Photos
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t’s not everyday that a legend comes along, but such was the impact of Edward “E.C.” Reagan. A lifetime resident of Willow Grove, E.C. was an Army veteran, follower of God, family man, and gentleman, and an avid and accomplished fisherman.
willing to brave the outdoor elements, Mr. Muskie, as he was known, believed the best time to catch a trophy fish was when the weather wasn’t fit for man nor beast. If he had to break the ice at the boatramp in order to launch his boat, all the better.
Born in 1931, he learned to fish on the waters of the Obey River. Once construction was complete, he wet many a line at Dale Hollow Lake in the decades that followed. He loved to share his tips and techniques for fishing—and living a good life—with family and friends, and his wisdom enriched the lives of many, both on and off the water.
In 1975, he appeared in a print ad for his favorite tools of the trade, the Bomber crankbait. To this day, E.C. Reagan’s name can be found in online Tennessee fishing forums, and for good reason. With 55 catches to his name, he continues to hold all records for the most Muskie ever caught over 40 inches.
Over the years, he hooked thousands of Walleyes with his angling expertise, and in the world of muskellunge, or muskie, fishing, his name is known far and wide. Always
E.C. passed away June 16, 2017, but he left an indelible mark on the waters of Dale Hollow Lake—and all who were privileged to know him. He will be missed.
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