The History of Husky the Musky

Husky the Musky stands as a towering tribute to the muskellunge, a fish native to the freshwater lakes of North America, particularly in the city of Kenora, Ontario. This 40-foot-tall outdoor sculpture was first constructed in 1967 as a potential Canadian Centennial project, under the guidance of the Kenora Chamber of Commerce. The creators, Jules Horvath and Bob Selway from Deluxe Signs and Displays brought this iconic fish to life. “Husky is 40 feet tall and weighs 2.5 tons. The statue was built using one ton of steel, 36 sheets of plywood, 3,500 bolts, 700 pounds of resin, and 500 square feet of fiberglass matting. It's a realistic rendition of a muskie, and the shape was created by carving Styrofoam, which was then covered with fiberglass.” The name 'Husky the Muskie' was chosen from hundreds of entries in a naming contest, with Bill Brabooke providing the winning entry.  His entry included the slogan "Husky the Muskie says Prevent Water Pollution."

The original structure was rebuilt in 1995 by Ross Kehl of Perma Flex Systems, ensuring Husky's continued presence as a Kenora landmark. Located in McLeod Park, Husky the Musky not only celebrates the local fishing culture but also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving natural water bodies. The sculpture has gained national recognition, partly due to its size and strategic placement alongside the Trans-Canada Highway, making it a popular roadside attraction.

Over the years, Husky the Musky has undergone several restorations to maintain its grandeur. The most recent restoration was completed with the support of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation and FedNor, reflecting the community's commitment to this symbol of Kenora's heritage and environmental advocacy. The restoration efforts were led by Dinosaur Valley Studios, which took a modern approach to the sculpture's design, blending characteristics of various muskellunge subspecies, with a focus on the Tiger Muskie.

The artistic team also incorporated feedback from local residents, leading to a more realistic representation of the fish's eyes and a color scheme that stands out against the surrounding foliage. This attention to detail ensures that Husky the Muskie remains a vibrant and noticeable feature for travelers and locals alike. The glossy finish applied to the sculpture mimics the appearance of a wet muskellunge, leaping out of the nearby Lake of the Woods, further enhancing its visual impact.

Husky the Musky is more than just a sculpture; it is a cultural icon that embodies the spirit of Kenora and its people. It symbolizes the community's respect for their aquatic environment and the muskellunge that inhabit it. As a centennial project that has stood the test of time, Husky the Musky continues to attract visitors and serves as a proud emblem of Kenora's commitment to environmental stewardship and the celebration of local wildlife.