Real, authentic, and honest. The reality that most content creators face but the community doesn’t see. Putting out the quality of content that 54 Or Bust releases is a thankless effort. No amount of free gear will make up for the effort. You guys have done it with class and a ton of hard work. Nobody will fault you if you walk away and focus on the other aspects of your life that are meaningful and important to you. You have had one hell of a journey and I feel so blessed to have been a small part of it.
#gobeyond that's what we will do, go beyond just musky fishing. Life is full of so many great things and we can't lose sight of that. You have become a friend, a trusted friend and I appreciate that so much. This journey has brought so many great people and situations into our lives, more than I could ever imagine. I just need to reflect on why we do this, and who we do this for.
We've had a lot of converataions about this over the years, and it's wild to think that it came to a head for both of us almost simultaneously! I've been enjoying cutting back....for now. I think I may have found a new happy medium. Hopefully you can find the same, my friend!
Brain, you are the class act this industry should be modelled around. You know we have talked a lot about this and I am losing faith in it really changing. The arms race of private or pay-wall content or information is pricing musky fishing out of reach for younger anglers and in turn only showing the same content from the same guys over and over. All I know is we HAVE to plan a few days together. Maybe we'll even leave the camera's on the dock...
No matter what path you choose Glenn it was an honour to watch you, dave and the family all chase Muskies and I hope to be able to continue to in the future. There will always be haters in the industry. Especially when you’re doing good. But ignoring them is the best thing without a doubt. Having your families and kids on the videos is what made your videos. Nothing better than seeing kids wanting to spend time with their parents and watching you teach them was inspiring. Those types of videos were ones to smile about Glenn. And the best part is you have it on video so you can replay it for your own enjoyment in later years. It was a really tough season for many people this year including myself especially this fall so it was always nice to see you and Dave posting new fall videos catching those fatties!! They helped keep me motivated to get the boat back in the water each weekend despite riding the skunk train since my last fish November 3rd. I hope this isn’t the end for 54 or Bust but is so I respect the decision. Hopefully see you chasing musky again next year! Enjoy the off season boys and stay safe out on that ice. Cheers,🍻
That means so much to me. Micheal told me he felt the same way after Giant's Quest. I feel that now. The season of hustle in the musky industry is over for us.
I still think you guys have the best content as far as helping people understand the how's and whys of musky fishing. Sure others might go out 3, 4, 5, 10 times until they get a fish "worth" showing so they can ensure they get the views, but you guys show almost every outing. Good or bad. You don't throw the same baits every episode, or only the tried and true ones. You try new stuff, break down the scenario, the structure, where the boat is positioned, how to fish, when to fish, etc. That's the kind of stuff that helps people like us who only get 5-10 musky outings a year or less. We all work day jobs and fishing is a very common decompression activity. To dedicate those few outings to musky fishing alone vs. bass, walleye, crappie, etc. makes it even more valuable. Learning from you and watching you have success or not helps me stay grounded that I may not catch a fish every time out on the water, but that I can enjoy every second out on the water. I don't care if I get skunked as long as I learn something every time I cast and better myself as an angler. You give us all that and more.
That really his home! We always wanted it to be the 'real' us. Too many content creators only show you the end result, and only when it's 'worthy' And the amount of time we put in for the underwater footage is insane. And to have a very few bait builders get mad because we didn't get them a video just kicks the sh*t outta us.
This is the best musky video I have ever seen. One reason: you are honest about the struggle. Been musky fishing for 3 years now and every video you come across focuses on the action and not the struggle. I get why: who wants to watch a video of people not catching any fish? But funny enough, the longer I fish for musky, the more I want to see this. I want to see people logic through what went wrong. I like to listen to them work strategize where to go from there. And I REALLY appreciate people who admit they struggle like I do. Thanks for this video. Subscribed.
This is why we do this! 💯 I could make a 7 second hit list of every fish, all year, hell one might even get a million views. But I made this video like we make every one, real and from the heart. That fact that this video found you make me so happy. I wanted to to impact a few, not a million. I'm glad you found us, and I hope we earn your trust! Thanks, Team 54
It was a tough season for many of us. I appreciate all that you and the 54 or bust gang have done, I appreciate our friendship the most. Hang in there brother. I'll always support you and the gang.
You know we got shit to finish next year you and I, and we will get it done! You have been one of the biggest supporters of the channel and us. We can't thank you enough.
I hope ya'll stick with it and you find a way to enjoy it again. Your breakdowns for spots, approaches, and techniques is second to none. I'm very grateful I got to watch the journey and learned a ton along the way. Rooting for you and dave and looking forward to seeing or hearing about 54 +'s in your boat. Tight lines
Hey Glenn (and Dave). Just wanted to say this videos and others like it are the reason I look up to you guys. You are very real, down to earth people who showcase both sides of the industry, and that is something many of us appreciate. Your channel has been an invaluable resource over the last 1.5+ years for me as I got into the sport, and I just wanted to say thank you. While I've only caught two fish, I can proudly say both were caught using tips and techniques I've picked up for watching your videos, and 54 or Bust is always something I think of and mention when I see my pictures of those fish. It is extremely upsetting to know people leave such negative comments, specifically around showcasing family and friends in your videos. Those moments are some of my favorite to see with you and Dave joking around and having a genuine and fun time with the family. While people may say "just tune out the haters" I understand that its not as easy as that and also understand the weight those comments hold. While I would be gutted if you and Dave did take a step back, I couldn't blame you and understand the why -- as you outlined in the video. Regardless of what ends up happening this coming year, I just wanted to thank you and Dave for the crazy amount of insight and perspectives you've brought to the table. You've allowed me to grow as a musky angler (and as a person in some aspects) and I will be Team 54 or Bust until the end! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season and looking forward to what's next. - Tristan
Well hell Glenn! I am shocked, but at the same time not, that people can be so cruel and demeaning. I think is more a commentary on how pathetic their lives are. The videos of your kids being with you and catching fish, or just spending time with their dad, is some of your best content. If a$$hat keyboard warriors complain about that, they don’t deserve you anyway. Listen - if you guys are back, I’ll be right here with you. If you’re not, I support that too. And maybe I’ll have a better shot at getting some time on the lake with you guys!
You guys have awesome content, I wouldn’t even pay attention to that negative energy. Regardless how great someone is at their art, there will always be negative energy… especially through social media with it being easy to “talk negative” without face to face contact. When I met you guys at the MN Expo you were very respectful and informative and I’ll always watch your stuff. None of us are the “best”. But we put in the time and effort and enjoy the grind of chasing these fish. I work at the power plant to earn my income and on my off days I spend them on the water just like you guys do. Keep up the good work!
Glenn, thanks for all you do. Your channel has been the go to place for me as a weekend warrior to “unwind”, but also be informed when it comes to musky content. Love that you guys don’t take yourselves too seriously and break things down for the Everyman. Good luck on whichever direction you choose to go moving forward!
Glenn & Dave, You be You, don’t worry what anyone say. They can leave your channel if they don’t like your content. The content is yours and no one else’s. Daddy Daycare- I love to see you taking your girls out fishing. The singing and dancing in the boat made me smile. I could ramble on but just be you and do what you want and how much you want. I watch for info not what and how many fish you catch. The underwater dog baits is great and want to see more. How you work them, what leaders, reel size/ speed and rod size & action. Don’t care about manufactures just helps to apply to my fishing. Best of luck and have a great holiday season.
I commend you for having the transparency and courage to share this. It's been a blast virtually jumping in the boat with you because much of what you say and do is very relatable to the average Musky angler. The fishing is hard but incorporating content creation into it is a struggle that few understand. I've always gone into this with the expectation that there are bad apples out there who seek out drama and enjoy throwing gas on the fire no matter who you are. It's due to insecurity, jealousy and an attempt to make themselves feel better...but if you don't have haters then you haven't made it. I enjoy it now more than I ever have and ill share my approach as a family man with a 9-5 job and 2 kids. I align my priorities and determine a fishing/posting cadence that works into those priorities...your viewers then become subject to that and will get even more excited when you do post because though it may be less it'll be GREAT quality. You don't owe anything to anyone so go with what's comfortable for you. Enjoy whatever time you take to reflect and looking forward to future content! Tight lines and happy holidays!
Thanks Sam, your channel was one of the early ones I watched and always thought was different than the big ultra sponsored ones. I didn't need courage to stand for what I believe in. The handful of bullies that think they control the narrative around all things musky related has to stop, the shaming of sub-standard (to them) fish, the shaming of using technology they don't agree with, the sense that only their lakes matter. I'm just sick of it. The have the loudest voices online and it just keeps happening. If this video makes one person think twice about who and how they deal with others in the industry than that's a win. Hope to see you up here next season!
I really appreciate the personal effort you and your family put into muskie fishing. The one thing that makes you stand out is the reality of your content and how you are trying to help the community. No matter how you decide to move forward in the future, I know that I am better because I crossed paths with your content. Thank for everything you have contributed to the muskie community!
The success of what you do as a team and as a content provider is due to the fact that you guys are so relatable. Those that view your channel are probably very much like Matthew and I. We don't fish 12- 15 hours every day during the season bur are weekend or occasional musky hunters. What you do speaks to who we are and the tips, techniques and experiences are all educational. I know I've caught more fish because I watch the channel and hate to think it might vanish but as a family man I understand the priorities in life and respect what you did in this video. Only you know what is the best balance in your life. I'm confident you and everyone on 54 or Bust will make the best decision. Just remember, regardless of your decision that me and just about everyone out there will never hesitate to share a boat with you this summer
Glenn, I really enjoy your content! On top of fishing, your more personal videos are really engaging. Thanks for sharing this video. I’m impressed by how you balance everything: family, kids, work, Muskie fishing, content creation, etc. It really struck me when you mentioned the sacrifices you’ve made for fishing. The kids grow up too fast, and our parents are getting older too. I’ve felt guilty for prioritizing my own Muskie pursuits over relationships and responsibilities this past year. I’m so grateful to have found Muskie fishing. It brings me real happiness, which I’d been chasing , often in the wrong places, for a long time. Moderation is key, said no muskie fisherman ever. Thanks for all the time and effort you put in so people like me can learn and feel part of a community. Hope you can block out the noise and continue to create content. For every negative person, there’s ten thousand more like me, who really enjoy you and your videos but never comment. Thanks, again. Have a great winter!
I appreciate your honesty and willingness to share when you are struggling. This season was a struggle for me with more skunks than I’d like to count, but this sport keeps me coming back for that chance at landing a beautiful fish. I’ve always enjoyed your content and hope that you do more, but completely understand if you move on.
Thanks Scott! Some time to reflect will be good for us. I hope you enjoy the bait of the year video coming soon and a few of the other projects we have planned for the off season. Thanks for the support!
Hey, it was great seeing you guys at the Muskie expo and getting you the syrup as a way of saying thanks! A lot of what you say really resonates with me as I only get the chance to fish for Muskie MAYBE 2-3 times a year but love it as a sport-hobby-passion. So listening to the advice, seeing your experiences, seeing you having fun with your family and friends has really meant a lot to me and actually really encouraged me to keep at it. I could just go back to my lake and bass fish, but channels like yours encourage me to do more. I regret not posting more on your socials in terms of thanks. I can't imagine how much work this is! The negative energy in the industry is real. I get it when I go into my local fishing tackle store. It's hard to brush off and when it involves your family it's a whole different level of personal. I do hope you find a way to combine the fun of the sport with the content making and reduce the stress. Next time I see you the beer is on me! Thank you to you, Dave and the family!
Glenn. Love your channel and authenticity of it. Sure there’s the usual suspects who post only their successes, but for me it is the journey and memories, not the destination (I.e., fish) that makes musky fishing worth pursuing. You capture that. Love the breakdowns on the board. Also, love the truth and reality you mention of the grind. Like you, I’m at a different stage of life, have two daughters, aging parents and demanding job. Used to go out 4-5 days a week after work and spent most weekends on water. Not in the cards these days. When I used to do that I had such a pulse of nuances of where the fish were located. My favorite musky channel over the others because you capture the journey and talk in detail of the weather and structure that led to those moments of success. Stay authentic forget the haters. 54 or Bust
Hey Glenn. I've always enjoyed your content, and am thankful for your tips and observations that I've been able to apply to the chase of our favorite fish. I find your everyman approach to your content is very relatable for all the folks that love to chase muskies, but simply can't devote all their time and resources to the pursuit. Muskie fishing is a grind, and those that can dedicate 100 to 150 days a year to it will certainly have an advantage in results based content over those who don't have that time to spend. That time also comes at a cost, both financially, and in terms of time away from family and friends. Know that there are many of your channel followers that will understand and respect your choice to take a step back and reset, enjoy a balance in your life and make sure you enjoy your time on the water. The haters usually have an agenda that somehow always involves putting others down so they can feel superior. You don't need them and fans of the channel pay them no attention. I look forward to future content from 54 or Bust. Tight Lines.
I love this video, and the fact that you were so honest. You put it all out there! So much respect for you guys. I think if you are on the fence of continuing or being done, I'd say do it for yourselves. If nothing else, to share your experiences and outings. A place to store memories for you to look back on, and loyal followers to enjoy. Thank you for all the content over the years. I've enjoyed watching it!
Appreciated the sincerity and honesty. Your channel has inspired me to be a better angler and to keep grinding through the tough days. Do what’s best for you and your 54 family,thanks for everything you’ve done and have a Merry Christmas Glenn.
Hey Glenn, I found your channel this year maybe around late September. You really put out great content 💯. This is the kind of content that should be out there for people to ingest. Sadly there are those out there who let their EGO'S run un checked. I busted my butt all this season saw a bunch of fish and was only able to land a 35.5 incher this past Saturday in 36 degree WT. Personally that's the coldest water I've ever been on. I was so happy to land it, you have no idea how much you and Dave had to do with me being out this late. THANK YOU. I absolutely listened to all your safety advise, cold weather and water is nothing to fool with. I just got back into musky after many years, you guys were a big help. Talk about a tough fish to go after, I have a bucktail rod I had custom made 25 years ago that still hasn't seen a follow, strike, or catch since I got it. So I totally get it's a grind but my issues fishing are not same the issues you have before you. You need to to do what's best for you and your family. I would love to see more next season ,but if you decide not to, I appreciate everything you've done and the best of luck to you sir.
Thanks for being a positive light in the musky community. It is needed and you guys show what the sport should be all about. Thanks for the content and the positivity.
Really appreciate the honest heartfelt take from the perspective of a content creator. While our perspective is different, the struggle is similar. I appreciate the support you have given to Muskie Munchies. I hope you do what's best for you, most of us hope that will include some more vids, but if not I'm sure we'll see each other on the water again, maybe even on the same boat.
Thx Jeremy! I just retired a Munchie that held a PB for a while. I might have to get you to build a new one! It's a tough industry and retail environment, I applaud you for finding your own little corner of it!
Whatever you feel is best for you, your family, and your Team is going to be the right thing. We are very fortunate to live in a part of the world that provides us these great outdoor opportunities. You, your Team, and your channel have been / are a great insperation and educational tool for me and my boys. 3 years ago we caught 2 small Musky and could not stop high fiveing ourselves. This year we boated 10 over 40", 1 44" Tiger, and a 49" Monster as well as more big pike then we can remember. I know the reason for our improvement is a better understanding of the fish, the lake, the tackle, moon phase, water temp, etc in a single word, education. Although we do / have watched many Musky videos, the "Little Tikes" breakdown was the game changer for us. We can buy what everyone else buys and we can throw lures all day long but understanding the location, moon phase, lake current, wind, etc that is not something many give away. So, if this was your last video then, Thanks from me and my boys if you decide to keep producing content then we will be watching. Take Care.
Appreciate all the time, hard work and sacrifices you make to put out these videos. Can't speak for all, but anytime I see a new 54 or Bust video it makes my day better. Hope you do what makes you and your family the happiest. Have a great holiday season with the family and friends! Cheers.
@@54orbust your videos have given me so much knowledge, passion, and respect for what you guys and gals do. Not only fishing but also enjoying nature family and friends. Take care 54 or Bust family!
You guys have helped me grow as a angler and I wanna thank you so much. Do what’s best for you guys, I’ve seen every video and enjoyed every one, I loved seeing your family having fun too. No matter what thanks for doing what you’ve done. You guys rock!
So many tips and tricks over the years, appreciate everything you have brought to us through the channel. Hoping it’s not over but you gotta do what’s best for you. All the best, Glenn!
You guys always kept the content real. Jodie and I can't thank you and Dave enough for what you've done for us. Your content has put our products into the muskie world. No matter the path you choose, we wish you the best of luck!!
I really enjoy your videos and the different perspective your channel provides. You were definitely not the only anglers who thought it was tough this season. I think everyone struggled for a good long time this summer.
I won't write a book but... This was very spot on and relatable. I've now come to learn family is more important than any fish. Whichever you decide to do I hope you have the joy and success you deserve Glenn!
I had no idea you were a truck driver. Nothing but respect, working a difficult blue collar job and still putting in the time to make great fishing videos on the side. Nothing but respect for that.
We never shared much of our personal lives, but too many thought musky fishing was all we did. The pressure of keeping up with full time guides/content creators/builders was enormous. We work 40-60 hrs a week and never complain about it. Thanks for the support!
Hey Glenn, very relatable video! We set out to do the youtube thing and found that life and having young families and trying to push a channel was just too much. We also began to notice that it was taking away from the reason we have always fished, to enjoy time on the water with my dad and friends. We got back to our basics and funny enough landed some personal bests in places weve fished our entire lives. We enjoy your content and being fellow canucks always root for your success. Hope to see you recharged in 2025!
Life is strange that way, the more you try the harder it gets. My buddy Earl has raced bikes and sleds his whole life and when he struggled we always said, "Just ride like the pits" meaning ride like home in the sand pits. I need to follow that advice. I appreciate the friendship we have developed over the years and respect what you do with SBO>
Thanks for everything! I had to rewatch this video 3 times to fully understand what you were truly saying. You have family and friends, both in real life and in fishing, that you should cherish above all. Fishing is not thát important that it should impeed you from enjoying family life, friends, fishing with pleasure (no matter what they throw at you in this industry). I started following your channel thanks to a friend that showed it to me and I liked it from the start because it is different and it wasn’t the next “pro-staff” channel, go-pro mayhem ... The mentality has changed a lot for the worse, much like it has over here. We talked about this this year. Take time to think about where your priorities lie, what is important to you (and I mean yourself, your family and friends, passion for fishing itself) and follow your heart! You’re a great man, Glenn, and you will know what to do eventually. Someone wrote it before: nothing but respect for keeping it real and original. Thank you!
I absolutely love your content! You stay true to yourself, your family, your friends & the sport. I love it when you’re fishing with your kids. My son grew up on the water fishing with me. It’s sad that you don’t see a lot of kids out there anymore. Trolls are just that…trolls! You guys are doing something great & I thank you!
Overall content creation is very thankless and a lot of people don’t see it for the reality it is. There are a lot of takers in the industry, which makes me more thankful for the good people I work with. I greatly appreciate the 200 or so people that watch my stuff religiously every week, however the amount of work that takes vs return makes it hard to justify continuing at the same clip. Good on you for shedding a light on the issue. It’s easy for creators to be a lightning rod but those who are critical of others should probably look in the mirror and consider if they are the problem first.
Those that are critical of others are usually jealous, and have or would like to have screen time. A lot of the guides that make the most fuss have all be fitted from tv/ youtube / print media. The few that get the viral hits get the Shallow fame that comes with it. And good for them. I never wanted that.
Dave,Kyla, and yourself posted a round table vid on this topic back in 2023. The haters were attacking you guys then and obviously are still doing it now. As UA-cam is the only social media I belong to, I can only guess who the hater’s are. For me Glenn, when I started 2 years ago looking on UA-cam to learn how to Musky fish, I watched so much content that my family started making fun of me 😎. My family could pick your voice out in a crowd lol. I early on knew your channel, 54 or Bust, was the best channel for me. You guys are down to earth, real, emphasis on family, and very informative. Karen and I have told you this before. These hater’s have to be threatened and petty to attack you, your kids, and the channel. That’s how they play the game. Arms race to the king of the hill. Or my rules are gospel(which they can choose to ignore) and you have to follow them or else. Sad thing is that they use to be probably in your high regard in the past. As a normal guy, I get why you are considering this. I can only imagine what it takes to put out the videos that you do. I would be dragged down to their level if someone was saying garbage about my choice to include my kids. Selfishly I would tell you don’t let the hater’s win by leaving after the last things you have planned for the channel. Compassionately I will say if you need to spend more time with your family and friends you should do that. Enjoy Musky fishing the way you did before the channel, spend quality time with your family, and enjoy life. Karen and I will always roll the dice to have you guide/teach us every time we go to your neck of the woods if you will have us. As probably the biggest noobs on your channel we need all the help we can get lol. And, we think the 54or Bust community is one of the best 😎. Tight lines Glenn
Thanks James. The big guys hate when little guys have any success. I see it locally, and on a broader sense. Why can't we just celebrate the success of others, without jealousy or contempt? I'm happy Doug Wegner has found success with his membership channel the same way I'm happy Kyle Friedges is finding success in the industry with his brand. They are different points of their journey but I respect both. One day I'll name check the world class anglers that tried to hold us back from success. But right now, I just want to see a better musky industry for my future and all those coming behind me.
@@54orbust that’s what sets you apart from all the rest Glenn. We all see ourselves in what you do. It’s the way it’s supposed to be and that’s what saddens those who follow the channel. I’m driving so I’m going to keep it short. We’ll talk later I hope 😎
Thank you for all you do. I know I have put more fish in the boat from learning on your videos. No matter the path you choose I look forward to sharing a boat next year !
Matt, you inspire me to fish. You inspired us to film with such a great product and we can't thank you enough for the trust you put in us. We will always fly Team Net Buddy!
Glenn, I think those of us who really enjoy your channel like it because you do not claim to be one of the greats in the Musky world. I have been chasing muskies for over 35 years. Sometimes I think I am pretty good, but then reality inevitably returns to keep me humble. This year was a humbling year, but that’s just how it goes. Catching fish is not the only reason we fish muskies if we are honest with ourselves. It’s just one of the reasons. Way back in the early years of my career, a business colleague told me that you can’t be all things to all people and he was right. Just do what you do well. I hope you are back at it next year.
Glenn, you know from my past comments how I appreciate your content and the fact that you don't only focus on the catching, but also the quality fellowship that is a byproduct from fishing with family and friends. After 38 successful years of owning my own diner, the pressure from creating a 'monster' gets to you after awhile.( I know a little about trying to keep people happy) I know you appreciate the success you have gained, but I can imagine the anxiety to consistently produce great content is draining...ESPECIALLY when your talking musky fishing! Whatever you decide to do, please know that many of us have benefited from your teaching and you have NOTHING to regret or apologize for.
Appreciate that. Dave and I will never regret anything we have done. And yes, I am so thankful for the community we have built. I feel a responsibility to honour that community, but I need to find a level of priorities with fishing that doesn't affect my personal life.
Start to finish, the realness of it all was one I can imagine so many others may be aligned with in todays world and the current status of our sports community. I've felt many of these same emotions although not directly correlated through the content area, however if I had one suggestion to even mull over in your head, it would be less videos, less planning, more inspired from personal drive to want to create something and allow your influx of reactions only to come from those who see your face and have your phone number. It all started for us from the love of chasing these fish with the people around us and unfortunately when things unintentionally slide towards feeling the end satisfaction rate dictated externally... its when as you said its time to step back and reflect. Great Video and glad you shared. I believe the next wave of content will be your most proud work you put together
Thank you so much, I had to share, the drama behind the scenes was, and is so tough in such a small industry. But, if or when we continue in 2025, you'll see a more focused 54 or Bust. Don't worry we have some bangers coming, the bait of the year video will be like nothing you have ever seen.
Id just say that its been an honor and a privilege to watch you guys chase these fickle toothy critters. Ive learned a lot from you breaking down a lake with various conditions that makes the challenge so much more fun and rewarding.
I've always enjoyed watching your shows, especially now that I live in Alberta where there isn't any Muskies. I totally get where you're coming from. Been there. Do what you need to do and don't worry about the key board warriors who hate on everything. Happy fishing to you guys in the future.
@@54orbust From a fellow blue collar worker , you guys keep on doing your thing and don't let a few idiots take your joy of muskie fishing away. Don't let them win.
Well said thank you for all the content you guys have done. It's unfortunate society has nothing better to do than to knock people down, rant and rave on this and that when they have no idea on how much time and effort that's involved in putting all the content out for the viewers. But most of all good for you for sticking to your guns nothing is more important than family! Most people saying the things about your kids should be ashamed of their selves. Just wanted to say I totally get why if you do pack it in, but thank you for all of the content, you guys did/do a great job! Real people!
Thanks Chris! How many years ago did you and I talk about musky drama? It never ends and I will never let others knock me down for including my family. Appreciate you always!
@54orbust thank you, I'll never forget that conversation. People lose sight on how short life really is, so instead of people bashing they should be appreciative with you and Dave to educate and spend time and to instill a passion for fishing with your kids, family and friends. Take care my friend all the best with whatever decision you make
I was a part of the start of the season. Was truly a struggle. Emotionally draining? Absolutely. Physically draining? Absolutely! Didn't land a single musky for the year. But we're coming back to go at it again next year!!!! Still say this is the best musky channel for community on the internet. Was very nice meeting your family and introducing you to mine.
We will always do what we feel is right, and I want to keep an open dialogue with our community, that's what opens us up to the cheap shots. But, like always we'll keep on keeping on!
Thank you for the insight and your experience. What you shared about insiders in the musky world providing less than positive feed back concerning a catch by a person young to the sport is painful and is exactly what ruins the experience. If you decide to create and share more content great! If not you should know many of us truly appreciated your content
For far too long my, and 54 or Bust have been ridiculed for not catching big fish, not being able to do it on Eagle Lake, and then I see the same thing happen to young or new anglers. Anglers who spent hard earned money to support the companies we love and use their products, only to have well sponsored guides or influencers shoot them down in any way possible. This isn't really about the companies, they can only vet their staff choices so much. But for the rest of us to accept it is a bit too far in my eyes. Will we be back? I dunno, there has been so much support for this video, but I know I will face some blow back. But it started a dialogue, that's all I could have hoped for. Thanks for your support!
Keep it up glen, you have had a great impact on the sport probably a lot more so than you think. There are a lot of us that watch every video you put out and enjoy learning from you. Musky fishing,unless it’s your career, should be an enjoyable pastime. If social media has made it to be more frustrating than fun, then it isn’t worth it. I am genuinely curious, was that keynote speaker that caused drama a guy from the southern us?
Thanks, we've made a difference, with the average anglers, we see that, we feel that. We just wanted to make a more positive change to the mind set of the industry, and it is slowly changing. But it's always gonna be about fifties, double nickles and the big lakes, no one cares about the 38 or 40 inch fish. They are fish of a lifetime for many, and those are the anglers that buy the gear at the local mom and pop shops (if they still exist), but social media is still full of the negative stuff if it ain't big enough.
Do what you want. Life is short. If you don't enjoy the fishing, it won't translate into great content. I really enjoy your show. I like the family moments you get to bring into the sport. Don't listen to haters - ever - there is just nothing ever gained by letting them rent space in your heads. The best stuff always comes from people doing what they want, the way the want to do it. My Son and I go to Eagle every summer at the same time as a couple of legendary guides and they just smoke us every year. We've had to realize that even though we are super competitive, we do not have the experience, tools or frankly, ambition, to be as good as them. Once we accepted that, we were able to enjoy our fishing and their success so much more than trying to keep up. And now, we ARE better fishermen because of it. I hope you keep producing honest and instructive content - and don't be afraid to tell us about stuff that doesn't work. But, if you decide to hang it up - you've produced some great stuff and you should be proud.
Thank you! I've felt proud of the way we have done it. We were true to ourselves. Our favourite memories are with my kids, Dave's step son and the times we all get together in the boat. Musky fishing is strange in that we think it's a personal thing to catch a personal best fish but in reality it is a team sport. Ya I understand many fish solo, but for most of us a great partner makes it so much better. Thx for the support!
Thank you Glen and Dave! Take some time off , be with your family . Don’t listen to anybody but those who mean so much to you and of course yourself. And if one day you want to do one or two videos WITH YOUR FAMILY THEN DO IT! OR DON’T. It’s up to you. I don’t carry a phone and won’t have anything to do with social media. If I ever see you in Kenora I would like to shake your hand and say thank you. All the best to you and your family.
Thank you for that! We tried to show the real us, as much as we could. And the support of our community has been absolutely overwhelming. I can't thank you enough for that!
You guys do a great job. Ignore the haters and do what you like. You need to take time away and live. I appreciate all musky content. I love UA-cam to try and learn. To just go catch a fish and film it is not for me. But hey I try and watch em all.
I'm glad you guys consider yourselves not the greatest cause fishing is just an endless pursuit of knowledge. Musky fishing especially is the kind of fishing that really humbles most people. I would be a complete beginner compared to you guys. Content creators go through so much whether it's the time on the water, editing and having to deal with those who have no idea what you go through. Especially while having to keep a work-life balance. I myself have considered quitting at times and I would have no issues if you ever wanted to take a break.
Thanks, we will recharge before next year. We do have some stuff coming up this winter, but they will be there when we are ready for them. Not a schedule to satisfy the masses.
I used to be very involved with Muskie's Inc. back in the 90s and early 00s. There's a lot of ego, testosterone, and personal politics in the muskie world. But you have to realize that this is basic human nature in any group of people. So you learn to tune out the bass turds and cherish the good people. As for the season and channel struggles, stop and realize that the pressure you feel... comes from yourself. So stop putting so much pressure on yourself. You can't catch a fish on lures others are successful with? So what? That's life, and that's fishing. Don't beat yourself up over it and add unnecessary pressure to your life. Truck driving is a hard enough life without adding stress because of fishing or UA-cam. They don't like Daddy daycare videos? Eff'em. They can watch something else then. Your family comes first, and I'm not telling you anything you don't know. Finally, due to my life circumstances, I have not been muskie fishing or to Canada since 09. I miss it terribly at times. Watching your videos helps me cope. Think about that. You're providing help to people in ways you didn't know. And sooner or later I will send you that lure.
I realize more than anyone that the pressure comes from within, I have ambition. I want to succeed in everything I put myself into. But this was a case of bit off more than I could handle. I had a goal and despite everything we did, I could not make it. Did I fail? I'm still going fishing on the third Saturday in June and the camera's will be running. But where that footage goes is a guess at this point.
@54orbust I understand your angst, especially with muskie fishing. I ran into that wall also. I fell apart and had to step away. It's a part of the reason why I haven't been fishing for so dang many years. Is all this expense, hassle, maintenance, and work to catch a fish worth it? I hit that wall, too. So I stopped fishing. It's more involved than that for me, but it's a part of it. I stopped fishing. Now, as I said, I miss it terribly at times and would like to get back into it. Only you and Dave can decide if it's still worth it. All I can say is remember that things change. How you feel now will change in the future. You know that. So don't make any decisions, like I did, that will make it difficult to get back into UA-cam muskie fishing in the future. Should you want to.
@54orbust You say you have ambition with muskie fishing. I did, too, and I hit that wall, and I lost my ambition. Whatever you and Dave do, don't lose your ambition. Find a way to keep it and also keep muskie fishing fun. Otherwise, you might end up in my boat, so to speak.
Interesting video Glenn. Sorry to hear about the negative comments. I don’t understand why some people live a life filled with so much negativity. Fishing is supposed to be fun. The Muskies are mean enough already. lol
Too many people in this world spend so much energy trying to bring others down. I can deal with a lot, but the family comments or comments about us not 'catching big fish' just cross a line for me. Appreciate your support Landry!
Don't allow social media to destroy something you love and enjoy . That is family and other pursuits .I can say personally I enjoy your content immensely , I am better for it . I
@@54orbust I don't want to see you stop posting videos. However I understand how you feel. True followers will stick with you regardless of how many times you post content. I would rather have a handful of videos than none. Look at the bright side, you got skunked more days than I got to fish! 😂 I am an owner operator I mainly run the upper midwest. It's hard working in musky country when the boat is at home.
One of the most common criticisms I got when I did JKC - AND MOSTLY FROM OTHER UA-camRS - was, “people don’t care about your kids, family, and extra stuff Jeff. They don’t tune in for that.” I was often told to essentially do it like everyone else. Almost like a checked out clone. Well, husband, father, pastor, invested community member, musky fisherman, and now farmer LOL = ME. So if people didn’t want to tune in to ME, it never bothered me. I respected the fact that a lot of people probably didn’t like my channel. It’s cool, to each their own, and there were obviously much better channels out there than mine. I started JKC and the Musky Battle for fun, to make real friends, to help people, and for all the right reasons. Never about making money or starting a “career” in the industry. Literally was never a goal or a desire. I’m just fortunate that a bunch of unexpected opportunities fell on my lap and I rode each wave as long as possible. Made the best of it and never took any of it for granted. As you know Glenn, I had been planning on walking away from all of this as far back as October of 2020. Good friends like yourself and many others, kept me on the hook for a while 😂 Y’all wouldn’t let me walk away! But I was always so thankful for the support, truly. And for a time, you guys kept me motivated. For some of the reasons you mentioned here, and many others, I eventually did walk away for good almost exactly one year ago (ironic). I barely follow any socials anymore, I just don’t have the time, but obviously I’ve still been following 54 or Bust. It may be a small compliment from a small name like me, but I sincerely believe you guys have done a great job and you were also very unique in how you did it. That’s tough these days, to be different and stand out, especially for good reasons haha. But enough rambling for now. Whatever you decide to do, you know I get it and still support ya bro. Even if it’s small and from far away. Praying for you and the fam. God bless and on camera or not - just. keep. casting. Jeff JKC 🙏🏼🎣🤙🏼 P.S. I quietly had my best (numbers) year EVER this year and had A TON of fun fishing. Who'd a thunk? I leave my socials, and then have a great year. Too funny. I told a good friend "2024 felt a lot like my first 2 to 3 years of Musky fishing." No giants, but that says a lot right there. Anyone that's been doing this for more than 10 years, knows what it was like when they first started musky fishing 15+ years ago before social media took over. Special time. I got a small taste of that again, a flashback, and it was wonderful.
It's not easy to walk away, from anything. I walked away from the gigging bar band we had, I walked away from rock climbing, and one day I'll walk away from public musky fishing. I honestly thought we were having a positive impact on things, the community agree here, but on social media it's still big fish or don't waste your time. Well, my time is better wasted on things that matter way more than a fish that pissed off guides have to laugh emoji at. Thx for the support!
Don't do this for anyone but yourself! Make your videos for you. The people that want to watch it can and will. The others can piss off. Don't burn the candle at both ends. I did that a few years ago running a non-profit Club. I am finally now starting to feel the bug settle back in again. Don't do anything in this world for anyone but yourself and those you love.
A fishermans life is as a tuna swims...races up, glides down... keep the faith and pray poseidon gives you the nod!. Family first is a tough pill sometimes. As far as the negative comments.... it's usually those that are on the glide down,.. just to swim back up. Maybe they are in deep water and undecided on what to feed on at the moment. God speed 54
You bet, it's gotta be fun and Dave and I have never not had fun. It's the pressure of constant content and dealing with trolls who f**cking hate any success we have.
really appreciate the channel. Great on taking your kids....family... the year sucked here in ottawa ontario also for almost all of us. River was muddy most of the summer...and fish just weren't biting for some reason. Depressed with wars and climate change too?
Honestly I could care less about wars and climate change, my life is focused around those close to me. Fishing was tough, we caught lots, I shouldn't complain. But the noise around the musky industry is deafening.
It was upsetting to hear that you are criticized for taking your kids fishing. The criticism has to be from people who are not parents, because being able to bond with your kids on any outing that both you and they enjoy is one of life's most sublime moments. As for me, I think your episodes are excellent on all levels. I fish Cedar every year because I saw you and your crew fish it, and enjoy the episodes with your wife and kids. Do those more, not less. Whatever you choose to do in the future, do it because of your family, not because of the musky community and certainly not because of some as*!#les. PS: Your daughter at university is off on her own adventure, and the decrease in connection is due to her growing up, not your vlogging. The connection will be re-energize soon enough. Hope to run into you some day at Bobbies or the Coop, and shake your hand.
Thanks so much Edward, family is so important. As for the family and kids comments, I can only guess they are from some hardcore spot in their life where musky is the only thing that matters. That's not passion, that's addiction. And like all addictions, it usually costs us those we love around us. My passion is musky fishing and this amazing, supportive community we have built. All I know is this, we've built it from a solid foundation and built is so well that we couldn't be ignored. I'm proud of that!
Great video! The thing to remember is that no matter who we are, everyone has the same amount of time per day. You can be Elon Musk or Glenn & Dave & we all have 24 hours/day. Those people out there who are or look the BEST must sacrifice time to achieve that status. Steve Jobs invented an amazing product & company but he completely failed at fatherhood. You said it perfectly in the video, BALANCE! You can’t coach your kids baseball team, have great investments, be a top notch musky fisherman, best spouse and son all in one. It’s physically impossible, something has to give. You decided to enter the world of “everybody has a butthole” so grain of salt bud. Rest up, re-think & come back next year. Do something nobody else is doing and don’t give a F.
Appreciate that, we already do what most are not doing, we keep it real. It's not a hit list built for 13 second clips, it's real life, real fishing situations. We'll find a balance and be back, on our terms, in some capacity. The industry is falling apart from the inside, and most don't see it.
yo bro yes the ave musky fisherman perfect its like 95% of us all you my friend are the main dudes you are us yeah we eat the skunk time to time good to see no shame there yet we come back for more better name the real people that chase musky bravo
Debated posting. But as a non content creator I think I’ve seen the other side of what you’re talking about. One year ago I sold off all of my musky gear for two reasons: 1) complete skunk for the season, and 2) musky anglers. 1 was frustration. 2 was what I suspect along the lines you speak of. I fish Leech for musky a bunch. Been doing leech about 10 years. It has become increasingly insufferable to me. The usual boaters and heavy pressure are one thing. But Musky fishermen, have become duschbags. I have had more negative interactions with musky ‘pro’ wannabes than any others. Go-pros, bibs, big boats, bigger attitudes, and downright rude behavior. Being cut off by trollers when casting a weed bed has become so common for me. Or fishing a weed bed, with others around, they finish up and gun it over the weed bed. Just time after time. I’m done. Sure, October came this year and I returned to musky hunting. But I deliberately didn’t go where the a$$holes do, and very likely reduced the chances for a ski by half. And certainly for a trophy. Don’t mind cause it’s about relaxing and enjoying myself. Long and short, I say screw the channel, if it brings drama cut it off. Return to the simple enjoyment of fishing. I’m really getting into ‘rough’ fish, drum carp etc. just as fun and relaxing and no wannabe musky pros turning it into a drama queen contest. Very nice. Stopped watching all the musky channels (still follow yours and Mainas). I’m honestly just over it. Even bought a kayak and float tube to break away from the crowds. Back to what fishing is really all about to me.
It's never been easier to record content and put it out, but it's never been easier to pretend you're a hero. Everyone has a gopro, in every sport. That's not gonna change. Everytime someone posts a video of a sick figure 8 eat, the rest of the musky world is looking to copy that. We try to be different. If we come back, we're calling out the 'heroes' for their exaggerated forced perspective, wide able photos, the lack of integrity by far too many guides, the power struggle to have the best pay-wall subscription based content that's keeping information out of the hands of young people and further educates the upper middle class with disposable income.
#NoShit... my brother went 30 days on Canadian water over 4 years-ZERO MUSKY!! He gave up musky fishing altogether. A trip or two a year whets the whistle... no shame in giving up the youthful pursuit of high volume musky hunting. All you need is a strong back and a weak will!!
I think you just need to make some changes. Stop paying so much attention to what other people think and focus on yourself & your family. That’s all that matters at the end of the day. Happy Holidays!!!
Please push to make forward facing sonar illegal. It is wrecking the sport of musky fishing. Its turned into a video game. Fair chase is important. These special fish DESERVE fair chase.
Is it really? It's changed musky fishing, but it's still a small percentage of anglers that have it. You think fish die from being caught with live scope? Or delayed mortality? I would argue those that catch the most fish stand to lose the most fish due to delayed mortality. The technology is not going anywhere. We have to use it ethically, and promote safe handling. Maybe better regulations from state to state, no night fishing! That helps keep Eagle Lake a viable trophy fishery. A return to night fishing they're could decimate that population inside a decade. The funny thing is very few anglers night fish any way in northwestern Ontario. Taking ffs out the equation is not gonna fix musky fishing overnight.
@@54orbust First off thanks for prompt reply. Love your channel. I hate the idea of FFS ethically. I think it cheapens the sport tremendously. More fish will and are be caught using FFS and the result is more angling mortality. Since when is the point of fishing to go outside and stare down at a screen all day? At the 2024 spring hearings Wisconsin did vote in favor of a FFS ban. I'd love to see WI anglers lead the way on this. I personally have lost interest in muskie fishing since FFS became popular. I used to absolute love it with a passion too. Makes me sad each day. It just isn't the same though. Ask yourself why you might of had a tougher season than normal? FFS has already changed muskie behavior. Muskies, like all animals adapt.
I don't disagree but how do you enforce a ban, unless it's on all fishing. Companies are investing millions into it. You want the musky industry to lead by example? Pressure the top guides and companies to stop sponsoring them and have them lead by example. The only way this changes is seeing the pros go without it. Pressure the worst of the snipers to stop. Its a never ending battle. In my eyes we have to learn to find a way to live with it. To my eyes, in northwestern Ontario the hard fishing was from over pressure. More anglers than I have ever seen. And got the record, very few eye using ffs, up here at least. But you make valid points.
@@54orbust The FFS ban I'm advocating would apply to all fishing. Judging by the angler vote in WI (and likely Missouri next) folks do see the danger and have already voted against FFS use. What we now need is for the Wisconsin DNR to listen to the people and not be bought and swayed by these corporations that have invested millions in this tech. The people voted, ban FFS in WI now. These huge corporations don't care about the resource or ethics. They'd sell you a stick of dynamite and a book of matches to catch fish with if it was legal to use and it made them money. Don't settle for living with it man. Fight it. You are a pro, you have a voice that matters. Imo what is likely next will be use of an automated AI drone that leaves a docking station at 3 am, surveys the lake in transects using a high resolution LiDAR-like technology to locate large muskies, drone completes survey and returns to docking station at 7 am, drone begins recharging via a solar panel, recently collected data is automatically uploaded to lodge's head muskie guide's phone, at 8 am high $ 'pro' muskie guide takes clients to the section of lake with highest trophy muskie density as observed by the drone, they use advanced FFS tech to target/catch trophy fish, they arrive back to cabin by noon for lunch, rinse and repeat. Or we take a stand now and preserve the purity of the sport of fishing. This is a lose an inch lose a mile situation. The slope will only get more slippery.
Bro.... instead of hanging up the rods and quitting on fishing, maybe you should quit social media and enjoy fishing as it was before all of this!!! As much as most of us appreciate content like this, most of us also grew up in the late 90's and early 2000's where social media wasn't around, and we were all so much happier. To me it seems like you have a lot of pressure to satisfy your audience which at this point is only 5k subs, and it's getting in the way of enjoying fishing and family. Unless you are doing this for living (which you are not) who cares what everyone else thinks. tight lines!!!
Oh I won't quit fishing, we live in the heart of the best musky waters on the planet. It's about ambition and doing some good. And trying to help those that have put trust in us, from lure companies to our community. Ya it's only 5000 subs but that's not nothing. I grew up in a time the cops followed you home from pit parties, to make sure you made it. Boxes of free lures are not free, the work we put in is to help them sell them. The idiots that try to kick everyone down on social media are trying to undermine the whole retail market. I can easily keep my family out of this but then I would be like everyone one else out there and I might as well rebrand to Glenn McDonald fishing. It was never about me, it was always about you.
@@54orbust And as I stated earlier, many of us appreciate content like this, in some ways it helps us become better and if nothing it gives you the urge to go fishing. I also know you have obligations to your sponsors but how much is all that worth? You just gained another sub!!!
I lost every single big fish I had on this year including a few giants, never got one over 45 in the net. I was outfished like 10-2 on Green Bay and lost two Giants my last two trips. This year was a test and all I can do is put myself in the position to hopefully not f it up the next time. I think it was very trying for me because I kept making mistakes but I think there's something to be said for things not always going right but still sticking it out or even just going out that next day. I can't wait for next year I've got allot of unfinished business I've gotta take care of and some big fish that owe me pictures. But the one thing I would say is just be careful using others as examples there's allot of hard headed guys in the industry and people don't like to be used as examples
I stand by the people I respect in the industry, and the choices we make to be different than them. And for the record "Cult" by Fishcamp might be the best musky related content ever put to youtube, nothing but respect for that.
Muskys Suck , i only fish Muskys in peak time , after 30 years of doing it i just don't have the time . Luckily I live by Green bay and almost always musky fish there.
You're entitled to your opinion, dramatic? Maybe, but that's the truth about how things feel. Narcissistic, doubt that, I've taken responsiblity for my short comings and only look to try make things better for those coming behind us. Do I blame a select group of well known anglers for most of the negativity in the industry? You bet. Again, we're not for everyone and if you're here and don't like it, kindly move on.
@ I’m not trying to insult just being honest, I enjoy the videos for musky fishing but this just seemed over the top. I am glad you called out Doug he’s obviously a hammer of an angler but hard to listen to
I didn't call out Doug, I respect all he puts into it but why is it that the insustry thinks if you don't do 14hr days and don't eat, don't sleep, that that's the only way to be taken serious? Why do I musky fish? Cause it's my stress dump, why did we start to film? If we can help one other angler, that's why. No one is calling out some of this unrealistic bs that you have to go through to be taken serious. Maybe I'm lose out maybe I won't. But we stand for something, that's more than I can say for many.
@@54orbust well he should be called out, muting yourself and putting “advice” behind a paywall especially for fishing is clown behaviour. Just keep in mind 99% of your audience like me has no clue about any of this stuff behind the scenes. Most of the comments seem positive
Well I hope this is not going to be true. If so, thanks for all the entertainment over the years. And a sorry for this being my first comment to your channel. Chi miigwitch 🪶💨
Real, authentic, and honest. The reality that most content creators face but the community doesn’t see.
Putting out the quality of content that 54 Or Bust releases is a thankless effort. No amount of free gear will make up for the effort.
You guys have done it with class and a ton of hard work. Nobody will fault you if you walk away and focus on the other aspects of your life that are meaningful and important to you.
You have had one hell of a journey and I feel so blessed to have been a small part of it.
#gobeyond that's what we will do, go beyond just musky fishing. Life is full of so many great things and we can't lose sight of that. You have become a friend, a trusted friend and I appreciate that so much. This journey has brought so many great people and situations into our lives, more than I could ever imagine. I just need to reflect on why we do this, and who we do this for.
We've had a lot of converataions about this over the years, and it's wild to think that it came to a head for both of us almost simultaneously! I've been enjoying cutting back....for now. I think I may have found a new happy medium. Hopefully you can find the same, my friend!
Brain, you are the class act this industry should be modelled around.
You know we have talked a lot about this and I am losing faith in it really changing. The arms race of private or pay-wall content or information is pricing musky fishing out of reach for younger anglers and in turn only showing the same content from the same guys over and over.
All I know is we HAVE to plan a few days together. Maybe we'll even leave the camera's on the dock...
No matter what path you choose Glenn it was an honour to watch you, dave and the family all chase Muskies and I hope to be able to continue to in the future.
There will always be haters in the industry. Especially when you’re doing good. But ignoring them is the best thing without a doubt.
Having your families and kids on the videos is what made your videos. Nothing better than seeing kids wanting to spend time with their parents and watching you teach them was inspiring. Those types of videos were ones to smile about Glenn. And the best part is you have it on video so you can replay it for your own enjoyment in later years.
It was a really tough season for many people this year including myself especially this fall so it was always nice to see you and Dave posting new fall videos catching those fatties!! They helped keep me motivated to get the boat back in the water each weekend despite riding the skunk train since my last fish November 3rd.
I hope this isn’t the end for 54 or Bust but is so I respect the decision. Hopefully see you chasing musky again next year!
Enjoy the off season boys and stay safe out on that ice.
Cheers,🍻
Damian, thank you for the respect you showed us and the friendship we have built. It's a small community and you are one of the good guys!
I’m plowing snow on the night shift listening to this buddy! So much of this resonated with me. Thanks for what you do.
That means so much to me. Micheal told me he felt the same way after Giant's Quest. I feel that now. The season of hustle in the musky industry is over for us.
I still think you guys have the best content as far as helping people understand the how's and whys of musky fishing. Sure others might go out 3, 4, 5, 10 times until they get a fish "worth" showing so they can ensure they get the views, but you guys show almost every outing. Good or bad. You don't throw the same baits every episode, or only the tried and true ones. You try new stuff, break down the scenario, the structure, where the boat is positioned, how to fish, when to fish, etc. That's the kind of stuff that helps people like us who only get 5-10 musky outings a year or less. We all work day jobs and fishing is a very common decompression activity. To dedicate those few outings to musky fishing alone vs. bass, walleye, crappie, etc. makes it even more valuable. Learning from you and watching you have success or not helps me stay grounded that I may not catch a fish every time out on the water, but that I can enjoy every second out on the water. I don't care if I get skunked as long as I learn something every time I cast and better myself as an angler. You give us all that and more.
That really his home! We always wanted it to be the 'real' us.
Too many content creators only show you the end result, and only when it's 'worthy'
And the amount of time we put in for the underwater footage is insane. And to have a very few bait builders get mad because we didn't get them a video just kicks the sh*t outta us.
This is the best musky video I have ever seen. One reason: you are honest about the struggle. Been musky fishing for 3 years now and every video you come across focuses on the action and not the struggle. I get why: who wants to watch a video of people not catching any fish? But funny enough, the longer I fish for musky, the more I want to see this. I want to see people logic through what went wrong. I like to listen to them work strategize where to go from there. And I REALLY appreciate people who admit they struggle like I do. Thanks for this video. Subscribed.
This is why we do this! 💯
I could make a 7 second hit list of every fish, all year, hell one might even get a million views. But I made this video like we make every one, real and from the heart.
That fact that this video found you make me so happy. I wanted to to impact a few, not a million.
I'm glad you found us, and I hope we earn your trust!
Thanks,
Team 54
It was a tough season for many of us. I appreciate all that you and the 54 or bust gang have done, I appreciate our friendship the most. Hang in there brother. I'll always support you and the gang.
You know we got shit to finish next year you and I, and we will get it done! You have been one of the biggest supporters of the channel and us. We can't thank you enough.
I hope ya'll stick with it and you find a way to enjoy it again. Your breakdowns for spots, approaches, and techniques is second to none. I'm very grateful I got to watch the journey and learned a ton along the way. Rooting for you and dave and looking forward to seeing or hearing about 54 +'s in your boat. Tight lines
Thanks appreciate the encouragement!
Hey Glenn (and Dave). Just wanted to say this videos and others like it are the reason I look up to you guys. You are very real, down to earth people who showcase both sides of the industry, and that is something many of us appreciate. Your channel has been an invaluable resource over the last 1.5+ years for me as I got into the sport, and I just wanted to say thank you. While I've only caught two fish, I can proudly say both were caught using tips and techniques I've picked up for watching your videos, and 54 or Bust is always something I think of and mention when I see my pictures of those fish.
It is extremely upsetting to know people leave such negative comments, specifically around showcasing family and friends in your videos. Those moments are some of my favorite to see with you and Dave joking around and having a genuine and fun time with the family. While people may say "just tune out the haters" I understand that its not as easy as that and also understand the weight those comments hold. While I would be gutted if you and Dave did take a step back, I couldn't blame you and understand the why -- as you outlined in the video. Regardless of what ends up happening this coming year, I just wanted to thank you and Dave for the crazy amount of insight and perspectives you've brought to the table. You've allowed me to grow as a musky angler (and as a person in some aspects) and I will be Team 54 or Bust until the end! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season and looking forward to what's next. - Tristan
@@ItsMasq thanks so much! We are so happy to know we helped even one angler! Your support means the world to us!
Well hell Glenn! I am shocked, but at the same time not, that people can be so cruel and demeaning. I think is more a commentary on how pathetic their lives are. The videos of your kids being with you and catching fish, or just spending time with their dad, is some of your best content. If
a$$hat keyboard warriors complain about that, they don’t deserve you anyway. Listen - if you guys are back, I’ll be right here with you. If you’re not, I support that too. And maybe I’ll have a better shot at getting some time on the lake with you guys!
It's been a ride, and we will get time together on your stretch of water. Life won't stop. Thanks for all the support from a fellow #807
You guys have awesome content, I wouldn’t even pay attention to that negative energy. Regardless how great someone is at their art, there will always be negative energy… especially through social media with it being easy to “talk negative” without face to face contact. When I met you guys at the MN Expo you were very respectful and informative and I’ll always watch your stuff. None of us are the “best”. But we put in the time and effort and enjoy the grind of chasing these fish. I work at the power plant to earn my income and on my off days I spend them on the water just like you guys do.
Keep up the good work!
Thanks! I enjoy all your content I see as well! Hope to meet up again one day!
Glenn, thanks for all you do. Your channel has been the go to place for me as a weekend warrior to “unwind”, but also be informed when it comes to musky content. Love that you guys don’t take yourselves too seriously and break things down for the Everyman.
Good luck on whichever direction you choose to go moving forward!
Thanks for that! Look for the Bait of the Year video to drop on Christmas!
@@54orbustI’ll be tuning in! Pitbull 👀
Glenn & Dave, You be You, don’t worry what anyone say. They can leave your channel if they don’t like your content. The content is yours and no one else’s.
Daddy Daycare- I love to see you taking your girls out fishing. The singing and dancing in the boat made me smile.
I could ramble on but just be you and do what you want and how much you want.
I watch for info not what and how many fish you catch. The underwater dog baits is great and want to see more. How you work them, what leaders, reel size/ speed and rod size & action. Don’t care about manufactures just helps to apply to my fishing.
Best of luck and have a great holiday season.
Thanks for the support! We'll always be ourselves and let the shit fall where it may.
I commend you for having the transparency and courage to share this. It's been a blast virtually jumping in the boat with you because much of what you say and do is very relatable to the average Musky angler. The fishing is hard but incorporating content creation into it is a struggle that few understand. I've always gone into this with the expectation that there are bad apples out there who seek out drama and enjoy throwing gas on the fire no matter who you are. It's due to insecurity, jealousy and an attempt to make themselves feel better...but if you don't have haters then you haven't made it.
I enjoy it now more than I ever have and ill share my approach as a family man with a 9-5 job and 2 kids. I align my priorities and determine a fishing/posting cadence that works into those priorities...your viewers then become subject to that and will get even more excited when you do post because though it may be less it'll be GREAT quality. You don't owe anything to anyone so go with what's comfortable for you.
Enjoy whatever time you take to reflect and looking forward to future content! Tight lines and happy holidays!
Thanks Sam, your channel was one of the early ones I watched and always thought was different than the big ultra sponsored ones.
I didn't need courage to stand for what I believe in.
The handful of bullies that think they control the narrative around all things musky related has to stop, the shaming of sub-standard (to them) fish, the shaming of using technology they don't agree with, the sense that only their lakes matter. I'm just sick of it. The have the loudest voices online and it just keeps happening.
If this video makes one person think twice about who and how they deal with others in the industry than that's a win.
Hope to see you up here next season!
I really appreciate the personal effort you and your family put into muskie fishing. The one thing that makes you stand out is the reality of your content and how you are trying to help the community. No matter how you decide to move forward in the future, I know that I am better because I crossed paths with your content. Thank for everything you have contributed to the muskie community!
Thanks Eric, we truly appreciate that.
We won't disappear, not just yet!
The success of what you do as a team and as a content provider is due to the fact that you guys are so relatable. Those that view your channel are probably very much like Matthew and I. We don't fish 12- 15 hours every day during the season bur are weekend or occasional musky hunters. What you do speaks to who we are and the tips, techniques and experiences are all educational. I know I've caught more fish because I watch the channel and hate to think it might vanish but as a family man I understand the priorities in life and respect what you did in this video. Only you know what is the best balance in your life. I'm confident you and everyone on 54 or Bust will make the best decision. Just remember, regardless of your decision that me and just about everyone out there will never hesitate to share a boat with you this summer
Thx Ed and we'll get out on the water next season! I'll keep you in the loop!
@@54orbust As always, I look forward to wetting a line with you.
Thanks Glenn. Loved it. Thanks for the vulnerability and transparency.
So glad to hear that, we will always be honest with our community. And we appreciate every single one of you that support us!
Glenn, I really enjoy your content! On top of fishing, your more personal videos are really engaging. Thanks for sharing this video. I’m impressed by how you balance everything: family, kids, work, Muskie fishing, content creation, etc. It really struck me when you mentioned the sacrifices you’ve made for fishing. The kids grow up too fast, and our parents are getting older too. I’ve felt guilty for prioritizing my own Muskie pursuits over relationships and responsibilities this past year. I’m so grateful to have found Muskie fishing. It brings me real happiness, which I’d been chasing , often in the wrong places, for a long time. Moderation is key, said no muskie fisherman ever.
Thanks for all the time and effort you put in so people like me can learn and feel part of a community. Hope you can block out the noise and continue to create content. For every negative person, there’s ten thousand more like me, who really enjoy you and your videos but never comment. Thanks, again. Have a great winter!
Thanks so much for being part of what we do here!
I appreciate your honesty and willingness to share when you are struggling. This season was a struggle for me with more skunks than I’d like to count, but this sport keeps me coming back for that chance at landing a beautiful fish.
I’ve always enjoyed your content and hope that you do more, but completely understand if you move on.
Thanks Scott! Some time to reflect will be good for us.
I hope you enjoy the bait of the year video coming soon and a few of the other projects we have planned for the off season.
Thanks for the support!
Hey, it was great seeing you guys at the Muskie expo and getting you the syrup as a way of saying thanks! A lot of what you say really resonates with me as I only get the chance to fish for Muskie MAYBE 2-3 times a year but love it as a sport-hobby-passion. So listening to the advice, seeing your experiences, seeing you having fun with your family and friends has really meant a lot to me and actually really encouraged me to keep at it. I could just go back to my lake and bass fish, but channels like yours encourage me to do more. I regret not posting more on your socials in terms of thanks. I can't imagine how much work this is! The negative energy in the industry is real. I get it when I go into my local fishing tackle store. It's hard to brush off and when it involves your family it's a whole different level of personal. I do hope you find a way to combine the fun of the sport with the content making and reduce the stress. Next time I see you the beer is on me! Thank you to you, Dave and the family!
Thank you for the kind words, we truly appreciate it!
Glenn. Love your channel and authenticity of it. Sure there’s the usual suspects who post only their successes, but for me it is the journey and memories, not the destination (I.e., fish) that makes musky fishing worth pursuing. You capture that. Love the breakdowns on the board. Also, love the truth and reality you mention of the grind. Like you, I’m at a different stage of life, have two daughters, aging parents and demanding job. Used to go out 4-5 days a week after work and spent most weekends on water. Not in the cards these days. When I used to do that I had such a pulse of nuances of where the fish were located. My favorite musky channel over the others because you capture the journey and talk in detail of the weather and structure that led to those moments of success. Stay authentic forget the haters. 54 or Bust
@@jtkahl1982 thank you! One of my favourite comments on this video. Really hit home there as well. Appreciate you!
Hey Glenn. I've always enjoyed your content, and am thankful for your tips and observations that I've been able to apply to the chase of our favorite fish. I find your everyman approach to your content is very relatable for all the folks that love to chase muskies, but simply can't devote all their time and resources to the pursuit.
Muskie fishing is a grind, and those that can dedicate 100 to 150 days a year to it will certainly have an advantage in results based content over those who don't have that time to spend. That time also comes at a cost, both financially, and in terms of time away from family and friends. Know that there are many of your channel followers that will understand and respect your choice to take a step back and reset, enjoy a balance in your life and make sure you enjoy your time on the water.
The haters usually have an agenda that somehow always involves putting others down so they can feel superior. You don't need them and fans of the channel pay them no attention. I look forward to future content from 54 or Bust. Tight Lines.
Appreciate that! And yep, haters gonna hate.
It's the attacks on my kids or our morals that dig in so hard.
But, we've got more to say, more to do.
I love this video, and the fact that you were so honest. You put it all out there! So much respect for you guys. I think if you are on the fence of continuing or being done, I'd say do it for yourselves. If nothing else, to share your experiences and outings. A place to store memories for you to look back on, and loyal followers to enjoy. Thank you for all the content over the years. I've enjoyed watching it!
Thanks for being a part of the amazing community we've built here.
Appreciated the sincerity and honesty. Your channel has inspired me to be a better angler and to keep grinding through the tough days. Do what’s best for you and your 54 family,thanks for everything you’ve done and have a Merry Christmas Glenn.
Thanks so much for that!
Hey Glenn, I found your channel this year maybe around late September. You really put out great content 💯. This is the kind of content that should be out there for people to ingest. Sadly there are those out there who let their EGO'S run un checked. I busted my butt all this season saw a bunch of fish and was only able to land a 35.5 incher this past Saturday in 36 degree WT. Personally that's the coldest water I've ever been on. I was so happy to land it, you have no idea how much you and Dave had to do with me being out this late. THANK YOU. I absolutely listened to all your safety advise, cold weather and water is nothing to fool with. I just got back into musky after many years, you guys were a big help. Talk about a tough fish to go after, I have a bucktail rod I had custom made 25 years ago that still hasn't seen a follow, strike, or catch since I got it. So I totally get it's a grind but my issues fishing are not same the issues you have before you. You need to to do what's best for you and your family. I would love to see more next season ,but if you decide not to, I appreciate everything you've done and the best of luck to you sir.
@@vincesleep113 That's a tough, but cool story! We are so happy you found us!
Thanks for being a positive light in the musky community. It is needed and you guys show what the sport should be all about. Thanks for the content and the positivity.
Man, we're trying to bring positive change, but it's a tough go.
Really appreciate the honest heartfelt take from the perspective of a content creator. While our perspective is different, the struggle is similar. I appreciate the support you have given to Muskie Munchies. I hope you do what's best for you, most of us hope that will include some more vids, but if not I'm sure we'll see each other on the water again, maybe even on the same boat.
Thx Jeremy! I just retired a Munchie that held a PB for a while. I might have to get you to build a new one!
It's a tough industry and retail environment, I applaud you for finding your own little corner of it!
Your channel rocks, Glenn. Thank you for all you do.
Appreciate it! I'm just trying to show the good, the bad and the ugly side of musky fishing. It's a complex sport, with complex personalities.
Whatever you feel is best for you, your family, and your Team is going to be the right thing. We are very fortunate to live in a part of the world that provides us these great outdoor opportunities. You, your Team, and your channel have been / are a great insperation and educational tool for me and my boys. 3 years ago we caught 2 small Musky and could not stop high fiveing ourselves. This year we boated 10 over 40", 1 44" Tiger, and a 49" Monster as well as more big pike then we can remember. I know the reason for our improvement is a better understanding of the fish, the lake, the tackle, moon phase, water temp, etc in a single word, education. Although we do / have watched many Musky videos, the "Little Tikes" breakdown was the game changer for us. We can buy what everyone else buys and we can throw lures all day long but understanding the location, moon phase, lake current, wind, etc that is not something many give away. So, if this was your last video then, Thanks from me and my boys if you decide to keep producing content then we will be watching. Take Care.
The Little Tikes was a happy accident, but it was as much a part of 54 as the catching! Appreciate you Norm!
Appreciate all the time, hard work and sacrifices you make to put out these videos. Can't speak for all, but anytime I see a new 54 or Bust video it makes my day better. Hope you do what makes you and your family the happiest. Have a great holiday season with the family and friends! Cheers.
Many thanks, and if we reached just one angler we were happy.
@@54orbust your videos have given me so much knowledge, passion, and respect for what you guys and gals do. Not only fishing but also enjoying nature family and friends. Take care 54 or Bust family!
You guys have helped me grow as a angler and I wanna thank you so much. Do what’s best for you guys, I’ve seen every video and enjoyed every one, I loved seeing your family having fun too. No matter what thanks for doing what you’ve done. You guys rock!
Ben, (long pause) THANK YOU!
So many tips and tricks over the years, appreciate everything you have brought to us through the channel. Hoping it’s not over but you gotta do what’s best for you. All the best, Glenn!
Thank you!
You guys always kept the content real. Jodie and I can't thank you and Dave enough for what you've done for us. Your content has put our products into the muskie world.
No matter the path you choose, we wish you the best of luck!!
We will always appreciate Droptine and the trust you put in us, that was a crazy season on the Growler. Great memories and we truly thank you guys.
I really enjoy your videos and the different perspective your channel provides. You were definitely not the only anglers who thought it was tough this season. I think everyone struggled for a good long time this summer.
Glad you enjoyed them and hope you enjoy those coming this winter.
I won't write a book but... This was very spot on and relatable. I've now come to learn family is more important than any fish. Whichever you decide to do I hope you have the joy and success you deserve Glenn!
Thanks, it's easy to get caught up in the fake world we see online, chasing these artificial goals.
I had no idea you were a truck driver. Nothing but respect, working a difficult blue collar job and still putting in the time to make great fishing videos on the side. Nothing but respect for that.
We never shared much of our personal lives, but too many thought musky fishing was all we did. The pressure of keeping up with full time guides/content creators/builders was enormous. We work 40-60 hrs a week and never complain about it. Thanks for the support!
Love your channel, hope you find a way to ignore the toxic people. This year was one of the toughest seasons I’ve had.
The toxic people have the loudest voices. I'm just a little guy in a big sea here.
Hey Glenn, very relatable video! We set out to do the youtube thing and found that life and having young families and trying to push a channel was just too much. We also began to notice that it was taking away from the reason we have always fished, to enjoy time on the water with my dad and friends. We got back to our basics and funny enough landed some personal bests in places weve fished our entire lives. We enjoy your content and being fellow canucks always root for your success. Hope to see you recharged in 2025!
Life is strange that way, the more you try the harder it gets. My buddy Earl has raced bikes and sleds his whole life and when he struggled we always said, "Just ride like the pits" meaning ride like home in the sand pits. I need to follow that advice.
I appreciate the friendship we have developed over the years and respect what you do with SBO>
Thanks for everything! I had to rewatch this video 3 times to fully understand what you were truly saying. You have family and friends, both in real life and in fishing, that you should cherish above all. Fishing is not thát important that it should impeed you from enjoying family life, friends, fishing with pleasure (no matter what they throw at you in this industry). I started following your channel thanks to a friend that showed it to me and I liked it from the start because it is different and it wasn’t the next “pro-staff” channel, go-pro mayhem ... The mentality has changed a lot for the worse, much like it has over here. We talked about this this year.
Take time to think about where your priorities lie, what is important to you (and I mean yourself, your family and friends, passion for fishing itself) and follow your heart! You’re a great man, Glenn, and you will know what to do eventually. Someone wrote it before: nothing but respect for keeping it real and original. Thank you!
Dirk, you know how much I appreciate you, as a person and a fan of the channel. Thank you so much for everything!
I absolutely love your content! You stay true to yourself, your family, your friends & the sport. I love it when you’re fishing with your kids. My son grew up on the water fishing with me. It’s sad that you don’t see a lot of kids out there anymore. Trolls are just that…trolls! You guys are doing something great & I thank you!
And I thank you for watching and being a part of 54 or Bust. I can't change the perception in the musky industry, but together we CAN make it better!
Overall content creation is very thankless and a lot of people don’t see it for the reality it is. There are a lot of takers in the industry, which makes me more thankful for the good people I work with. I greatly appreciate the 200 or so people that watch my stuff religiously every week, however the amount of work that takes vs return makes it hard to justify continuing at the same clip. Good on you for shedding a light on the issue. It’s easy for creators to be a lightning rod but those who are critical of others should probably look in the mirror and consider if they are the problem first.
Those that are critical of others are usually jealous, and have or would like to have screen time.
A lot of the guides that make the most fuss have all be fitted from tv/ youtube / print media.
The few that get the viral hits get the Shallow fame that comes with it. And good for them. I never wanted that.
Enjoyed the content guys and learned a lot from it! Hope this isn't the end, but if it is, I enjoyed being along for the ride.
Thx Michael, you'll have some more to watch over the winter. And we'll keep you updated on what our 2025 plans are!
Dave,Kyla, and yourself posted a round table vid on this topic back in 2023. The haters were attacking you guys then and obviously are still doing it now. As UA-cam is the only social media I belong to, I can only guess who the hater’s are.
For me Glenn, when I started 2 years ago looking on UA-cam to learn how to Musky fish, I watched so much content that my family started making fun of me 😎. My family could pick your voice out in a crowd lol. I early on knew your channel, 54 or Bust, was the best channel for me. You guys are down to earth, real, emphasis on family, and very informative. Karen and I have told you this before.
These hater’s have to be threatened and petty to attack you, your kids, and the channel. That’s how they play the game. Arms race to the king of the hill. Or my rules are gospel(which they can choose to ignore) and you have to follow them or else. Sad thing is that they use to be probably in your high regard in the past.
As a normal guy, I get why you are considering this. I can only imagine what it takes to put out the videos that you do. I would be dragged down to their level if someone was saying garbage about my choice to include my kids. Selfishly I would tell you don’t let the hater’s win by leaving after the last things you have planned for the channel. Compassionately I will say if you need to spend more time with your family and friends you should do that. Enjoy Musky fishing the way you did before the channel, spend quality time with your family, and enjoy life. Karen and I will always roll the dice to have you guide/teach us every time we go to your neck of the woods if you will have us. As probably the biggest noobs on your channel we need all the help we can get lol. And, we think the 54or Bust community is one of the best 😎. Tight lines Glenn
Thanks James. The big guys hate when little guys have any success. I see it locally, and on a broader sense. Why can't we just celebrate the success of others, without jealousy or contempt?
I'm happy Doug Wegner has found success with his membership channel the same way I'm happy Kyle Friedges is finding success in the industry with his brand. They are different points of their journey but I respect both.
One day I'll name check the world class anglers that tried to hold us back from success.
But right now, I just want to see a better musky industry for my future and all those coming behind me.
@@54orbust that’s what sets you apart from all the rest Glenn. We all see ourselves in what you do. It’s the way it’s supposed to be and that’s what saddens those who follow the channel. I’m driving so I’m going to keep it short. We’ll talk later I hope 😎
Thank you for all you do. I know I have put more fish in the boat from learning on your videos. No matter the path you choose I look forward to sharing a boat next year !
Matt, you inspire me to fish. You inspired us to film with such a great product and we can't thank you enough for the trust you put in us. We will always fly Team Net Buddy!
Glenn, I think those of us who really enjoy your channel like it because you do not claim to be one of the greats in the Musky world. I have been chasing muskies for over 35 years. Sometimes I think I am pretty good, but then reality inevitably returns to keep me humble. This year was a humbling year, but that’s just how it goes. Catching fish is not the only reason we fish muskies if we are honest with ourselves. It’s just one of the reasons. Way back in the early years of my career, a business colleague told me that you can’t be all things to all people and he was right. Just do what you do well. I hope you are back at it next year.
Very true, we are not for everyone. I'll wear that. We'll do us and the right crowd will find us. Thanks for the support!
@54orbust
Now, that is the right attitude.
Glenn, you know from my past comments how I appreciate your content and the fact that you don't only focus on the catching, but also the quality fellowship that is a byproduct from fishing with family and friends. After 38 successful years of owning my own diner, the pressure from creating a 'monster' gets to you after awhile.( I know a little about trying to keep people happy) I know you appreciate the success you have gained, but I can imagine the anxiety to consistently produce great content is draining...ESPECIALLY when your talking musky fishing! Whatever you decide to do, please know that many of us have benefited from your teaching and you have NOTHING to regret or apologize for.
Appreciate that. Dave and I will never regret anything we have done. And yes, I am so thankful for the community we have built. I feel a responsibility to honour that community, but I need to find a level of priorities with fishing that doesn't affect my personal life.
Totally get it Glenn! Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!
Start to finish, the realness of it all was one I can imagine so many others may be aligned with in todays world and the current status of our sports community. I've felt many of these same emotions although not directly correlated through the content area, however if I had one suggestion to even mull over in your head, it would be less videos, less planning, more inspired from personal drive to want to create something and allow your influx of reactions only to come from those who see your face and have your phone number. It all started for us from the love of chasing these fish with the people around us and unfortunately when things unintentionally slide towards feeling the end satisfaction rate dictated externally... its when as you said its time to step back and reflect. Great Video and glad you shared. I believe the next wave of content will be your most proud work you put together
Thank you so much, I had to share, the drama behind the scenes was, and is so tough in such a small industry. But, if or when we continue in 2025, you'll see a more focused 54 or Bust.
Don't worry we have some bangers coming, the bait of the year video will be like nothing you have ever seen.
Id just say that its been an honor and a privilege to watch you guys chase these fickle toothy critters. Ive learned a lot from you breaking down a lake with various conditions that makes the challenge so much more fun and rewarding.
Thank Michael, it's been a pleasure for us to share our shenanigans.
@michaelholewa6602
Yes, his structure explanations are one of the features I really enjoy. It also sets him apart from other fishing videos.
Thanks!
Man I can't thank you enough... from the bottom of my hear I appreciate you!
I've always enjoyed watching your shows, especially now that I live in Alberta where there isn't any Muskies. I totally get where you're coming from. Been there. Do what you need to do and don't worry about the key board warriors who hate on everything. Happy fishing to you guys in the future.
Appreciate that! I love Alberta and how to be put that way in the spring for a visit!
@@54orbust From a fellow blue collar worker , you guys keep on doing your thing and don't let a few idiots take your joy of muskie fishing away. Don't let them win.
Well said thank you for all the content you guys have done. It's unfortunate society has nothing better to do than to knock people down, rant and rave on this and that when they have no idea on how much time and effort that's involved in putting all the content out for the viewers. But most of all good for you for sticking to your guns nothing is more important than family! Most people saying the things about your kids should be ashamed of their selves. Just wanted to say I totally get why if you do pack it in, but thank you for all of the content, you guys did/do a great job! Real people!
Thanks Chris! How many years ago did you and I talk about musky drama? It never ends and I will never let others knock me down for including my family. Appreciate you always!
@54orbust thank you, I'll never forget that conversation. People lose sight on how short life really is, so instead of people bashing they should be appreciative with you and Dave to educate and spend time and to instill a passion for fishing with your kids, family and friends. Take care my friend all the best with whatever decision you make
I was a part of the start of the season. Was truly a struggle. Emotionally draining? Absolutely. Physically draining? Absolutely! Didn't land a single musky for the year.
But we're coming back to go at it again next year!!!!
Still say this is the best musky channel for community on the internet.
Was very nice meeting your family and introducing you to mine.
Thanks for the support Michael, it was fun fishing together and maybe we can do it again next season.
Love your content. Do you man!! If people don’t like something, it’s on them.
We will always do what we feel is right, and I want to keep an open dialogue with our community, that's what opens us up to the cheap shots.
But, like always we'll keep on keeping on!
Thank you for the insight and your experience. What you shared about insiders in the musky world providing less than positive feed back concerning a catch by a person young to the sport is painful and is exactly what ruins the experience. If you decide to create and share more content great! If not you should know many of us truly appreciated your content
For far too long my, and 54 or Bust have been ridiculed for not catching big fish, not being able to do it on Eagle Lake, and then I see the same thing happen to young or new anglers. Anglers who spent hard earned money to support the companies we love and use their products, only to have well sponsored guides or influencers shoot them down in any way possible.
This isn't really about the companies, they can only vet their staff choices so much. But for the rest of us to accept it is a bit too far in my eyes.
Will we be back? I dunno, there has been so much support for this video, but I know I will face some blow back. But it started a dialogue, that's all I could have hoped for.
Thanks for your support!
When I have fishless day. I always say to myself , " Better not to catch one than catch one that dies on you ".
Very true! Thx for watching!
Love the videos good luck in your next chapter. Hopefully see you in a video or on the water. Charlie C out.
Thanks Charlie!
Keep it up glen, you have had a great impact on the sport probably a lot more so than you think. There are a lot of us that watch every video you put out and enjoy learning from you. Musky fishing,unless it’s your career, should be an enjoyable pastime. If social media has made it to be more frustrating than fun, then it isn’t worth it. I am genuinely curious, was that keynote speaker that caused drama a guy from the southern us?
Thanks, we've made a difference, with the average anglers, we see that, we feel that. We just wanted to make a more positive change to the mind set of the industry, and it is slowly changing. But it's always gonna be about fifties, double nickles and the big lakes, no one cares about the 38 or 40 inch fish. They are fish of a lifetime for many, and those are the anglers that buy the gear at the local mom and pop shops (if they still exist), but social media is still full of the negative stuff if it ain't big enough.
Do what you want. Life is short. If you don't enjoy the fishing, it won't translate into great content. I really enjoy your show. I like the family moments you get to bring into the sport. Don't listen to haters - ever - there is just nothing ever gained by letting them rent space in your heads. The best stuff always comes from people doing what they want, the way the want to do it. My Son and I go to Eagle every summer at the same time as a couple of legendary guides and they just smoke us every year. We've had to realize that even though we are super competitive, we do not have the experience, tools or frankly, ambition, to be as good as them. Once we accepted that, we were able to enjoy our fishing and their success so much more than trying to keep up. And now, we ARE better fishermen because of it. I hope you keep producing honest and instructive content - and don't be afraid to tell us about stuff that doesn't work. But, if you decide to hang it up - you've produced some great stuff and you should be proud.
Thank you! I've felt proud of the way we have done it. We were true to ourselves.
Our favourite memories are with my kids, Dave's step son and the times we all get together in the boat.
Musky fishing is strange in that we think it's a personal thing to catch a personal best fish but in reality it is a team sport. Ya I understand many fish solo, but for most of us a great partner makes it so much better.
Thx for the support!
Hang in there Glen you guys are more like the average Joe, it is refreshing to see the struggle that we all experience keep making it real
We would never show you a fake version of us. That's not who we are. Thanks for the encouragement.
Thank you Glen and Dave! Take some time off , be with your family . Don’t listen to anybody but those who mean so much to you and of course yourself. And if one day you want to do one or two videos WITH YOUR FAMILY THEN DO IT! OR DON’T. It’s up to you. I don’t carry a phone and won’t have anything to do with social media. If I ever see you in Kenora I would like to shake your hand and say thank you. All the best to you and your family.
Thank you for that! We tried to show the real us, as much as we could. And the support of our community has been absolutely overwhelming. I can't thank you enough for that!
You guys do a great job. Ignore the haters and do what you like. You need to take time away and live. I appreciate all musky content. I love UA-cam to try and learn. To just go catch a fish and film it is not for me. But hey I try and watch em all.
Thanks, always liked seeing you in the comments!
Whether you come back next season or not thank you for the great content. Much appreciated
Thank you for that! Stay tuned some really cool stuff coming in the next few months!
I'm glad you guys consider yourselves not the greatest cause fishing is just an endless pursuit of knowledge. Musky fishing especially is the kind of fishing that really humbles most people. I would be a complete beginner compared to you guys.
Content creators go through so much whether it's the time on the water, editing and having to deal with those who have no idea what you go through. Especially while having to keep a work-life balance. I myself have considered quitting at times and I would have no issues if you ever wanted to take a break.
Thanks, we will recharge before next year. We do have some stuff coming up this winter, but they will be there when we are ready for them. Not a schedule to satisfy the masses.
I used to be very involved with Muskie's Inc. back in the 90s and early 00s. There's a lot of ego, testosterone, and personal politics in the muskie world. But you have to realize that this is basic human nature in any group of people. So you learn to tune out the bass turds and cherish the good people.
As for the season and channel struggles, stop and realize that the pressure you feel... comes from yourself. So stop putting so much pressure on yourself. You can't catch a fish on lures others are successful with? So what? That's life, and that's fishing. Don't beat yourself up over it and add unnecessary pressure to your life. Truck driving is a hard enough life without adding stress because of fishing or UA-cam.
They don't like Daddy daycare videos? Eff'em. They can watch something else then. Your family comes first, and I'm not telling you anything you don't know.
Finally, due to my life circumstances, I have not been muskie fishing or to
Canada since 09. I miss it terribly at times. Watching your videos helps me cope. Think about that. You're providing help to people in ways you didn't know.
And sooner or later I will send you that lure.
I realize more than anyone that the pressure comes from within, I have ambition. I want to succeed in everything I put myself into. But this was a case of bit off more than I could handle. I had a goal and despite everything we did, I could not make it. Did I fail?
I'm still going fishing on the third Saturday in June and the camera's will be running. But where that footage goes is a guess at this point.
@54orbust
I understand your angst, especially with muskie fishing. I ran into that wall also. I fell apart and had to step away. It's a part of the reason why I haven't been fishing for so dang many years.
Is all this expense, hassle, maintenance, and work to catch a fish worth it? I hit that wall, too. So I stopped fishing. It's more involved than that for me, but it's a part of it.
I stopped fishing. Now, as I said, I miss it terribly at times and would like to get back into it. Only you and Dave can decide if it's still worth it. All I can say is remember that things change. How you feel now will change in the future. You know that. So don't make any decisions, like I did, that will make it difficult to get back into UA-cam muskie fishing in the future. Should you want to.
@54orbust
You say you have ambition with muskie fishing. I did, too, and I hit that wall, and I lost my ambition.
Whatever you and Dave do, don't lose your ambition. Find a way to keep it and also keep muskie fishing fun. Otherwise, you might end up in my boat, so to speak.
I really enjoy this channel. Fishing and family. It's not always about catching the fish for me.
I appreciate that Scott!
Interesting video Glenn. Sorry to hear about the negative comments. I don’t understand why some people live a life filled with so much negativity. Fishing is supposed to be fun. The Muskies are mean enough already. lol
Too many people in this world spend so much energy trying to bring others down.
I can deal with a lot, but the family comments or comments about us not 'catching big fish' just cross a line for me.
Appreciate your support Landry!
Don't allow social media to destroy something you love and enjoy . That is family and other pursuits .I can say personally I enjoy your content immensely , I am better for it . I
We appreciate your support, we truly do!
@@54orbust I don't want to see you stop posting videos. However I understand how you feel. True followers will stick with you regardless of how many times you post content. I would rather have a handful of videos than none.
Look at the bright side, you got skunked more days than I got to fish! 😂
I am an owner operator I mainly run the upper midwest. It's hard working in musky country when the boat is at home.
One of the most common criticisms I got when I did JKC - AND MOSTLY FROM OTHER UA-camRS - was, “people don’t care about your kids, family, and extra stuff Jeff. They don’t tune in for that.” I was often told to essentially do it like everyone else. Almost like a checked out clone. Well, husband, father, pastor, invested community member, musky fisherman, and now farmer LOL = ME. So if people didn’t want to tune in to ME, it never bothered me. I respected the fact that a lot of people probably didn’t like my channel. It’s cool, to each their own, and there were obviously much better channels out there than mine. I started JKC and the Musky Battle for fun, to make real friends, to help people, and for all the right reasons. Never about making money or starting a “career” in the industry. Literally was never a goal or a desire. I’m just fortunate that a bunch of unexpected opportunities fell on my lap and I rode each wave as long as possible. Made the best of it and never took any of it for granted. As you know Glenn, I had been planning on walking away from all of this as far back as October of 2020. Good friends like yourself and many others, kept me on the hook for a while 😂 Y’all wouldn’t let me walk away! But I was always so thankful for the support, truly. And for a time, you guys kept me motivated. For some of the reasons you mentioned here, and many others, I eventually did walk away for good almost exactly one year ago (ironic). I barely follow any socials anymore, I just don’t have the time, but obviously I’ve still been following 54 or Bust. It may be a small compliment from a small name like me, but I sincerely believe you guys have done a great job and you were also very unique in how you did it. That’s tough these days, to be different and stand out, especially for good reasons haha. But enough rambling for now. Whatever you decide to do, you know I get it and still support ya bro. Even if it’s small and from far away. Praying for you and the fam. God bless and on camera or not - just. keep. casting.
Jeff
JKC
🙏🏼🎣🤙🏼
P.S. I quietly had my best (numbers) year EVER this year and had A TON of fun fishing. Who'd a thunk? I leave my socials, and then have a great year. Too funny. I told a good friend "2024 felt a lot like my first 2 to 3 years of Musky fishing." No giants, but that says a lot right there. Anyone that's been doing this for more than 10 years, knows what it was like when they first started musky fishing 15+ years ago before social media took over. Special time. I got a small taste of that again, a flashback, and it was wonderful.
It's not easy to walk away, from anything. I walked away from the gigging bar band we had, I walked away from rock climbing, and one day I'll walk away from public musky fishing.
I honestly thought we were having a positive impact on things, the community agree here, but on social media it's still big fish or don't waste your time. Well, my time is better wasted on things that matter way more than a fish that pissed off guides have to laugh emoji at.
Thx for the support!
@54orbust LOL Amen to that! 👊
The whole Dadson segment confused me a bit. Are you not using his baits anymore?
That story will be told this winter...
The truth sets you free!
Yes sir!
Don't do this for anyone but yourself! Make your videos for you. The people that want to watch it can and will. The others can piss off. Don't burn the candle at both ends. I did that a few years ago running a non-profit Club. I am finally now starting to feel the bug settle back in again. Don't do anything in this world for anyone but yourself and those you love.
Truer words have not been spoken! This was a chase that was doomed, we over-reached and I won't make that mistake again. Thanks for watching!
Thanks glen hope u come back
We got some stuff planned Jeff! Appreciate all your support!
A fishermans life is as a tuna swims...races up, glides down... keep the faith and pray poseidon gives you the nod!. Family first is a tough pill sometimes. As far as the negative comments.... it's usually those that are on the glide down,.. just to swim back up. Maybe they are in deep water and undecided on what to feed on at the moment. God speed 54
Thanks so much for the encouragement! We're heading up!
You guys rock!
Then rock we will! You're gonna like the year end bait of the year video!
got to do what makes you happy. if it isn't fun it needs to be done remember it's just fishing.
You bet, it's gotta be fun and Dave and I have never not had fun.
It's the pressure of constant content and dealing with trolls who f**cking hate any success we have.
really appreciate the channel. Great on taking your kids....family... the year sucked here in ottawa ontario also for almost all of us. River was muddy most of the summer...and fish just weren't biting for some reason. Depressed with wars and climate change too?
Honestly I could care less about wars and climate change, my life is focused around those close to me. Fishing was tough, we caught lots, I shouldn't complain. But the noise around the musky industry is deafening.
It was upsetting to hear that you are criticized for taking your kids fishing. The criticism has to be from people who are not parents, because being able to bond with your kids on any outing that both you and they enjoy is one of life's most sublime moments. As for me, I think your episodes are excellent on all levels. I fish Cedar every year because I saw you and your crew fish it, and enjoy the episodes with your wife and kids. Do those more, not less. Whatever you choose to do in the future, do it because of your family, not because of the musky community and certainly not because of some as*!#les. PS: Your daughter at university is off on her own adventure, and the decrease in connection is due to her growing up, not your vlogging. The connection will be re-energize soon enough. Hope to run into you some day at Bobbies or the Coop, and shake your hand.
Thanks so much Edward, family is so important. As for the family and kids comments, I can only guess they are from some hardcore spot in their life where musky is the only thing that matters. That's not passion, that's addiction. And like all addictions, it usually costs us those we love around us.
My passion is musky fishing and this amazing, supportive community we have built.
All I know is this, we've built it from a solid foundation and built is so well that we couldn't be ignored. I'm proud of that!
Great video!
The thing to remember is that no matter who we are, everyone has the same amount of time per day. You can be Elon Musk or Glenn & Dave & we all have 24 hours/day. Those people out there who are or look the BEST must sacrifice time to achieve that status. Steve Jobs invented an amazing product & company but he completely failed at fatherhood. You said it perfectly in the video, BALANCE! You can’t coach your kids baseball team, have great investments, be a top notch musky fisherman, best spouse and son all in one. It’s physically impossible, something has to give.
You decided to enter the world of “everybody has a butthole” so grain of salt bud. Rest up, re-think & come back next year. Do something nobody else is doing and don’t give a F.
Appreciate that, we already do what most are not doing, we keep it real. It's not a hit list built for 13 second clips, it's real life, real fishing situations. We'll find a balance and be back, on our terms, in some capacity. The industry is falling apart from the inside, and most don't see it.
yo bro yes the ave musky fisherman perfect its like 95% of us all you my friend are the main dudes you are us yeah we eat the skunk time to time good to see no shame there yet we come back for more better name the real people that chase musky bravo
Thanks!
Debated posting. But as a non content creator I think I’ve seen the other side of what you’re talking about. One year ago I sold off all of my musky gear for two reasons: 1) complete skunk for the season, and 2) musky anglers. 1 was frustration. 2 was what I suspect along the lines you speak of. I fish Leech for musky a bunch. Been doing leech about 10 years. It has become increasingly insufferable to me. The usual boaters and heavy pressure are one thing. But Musky fishermen, have become duschbags. I have had more negative interactions with musky ‘pro’ wannabes than any others. Go-pros, bibs, big boats, bigger attitudes, and downright rude behavior. Being cut off by trollers when casting a weed bed has become so common for me. Or fishing a weed bed, with others around, they finish up and gun it over the weed bed. Just time after time. I’m done. Sure, October came this year and I returned to musky hunting. But I deliberately didn’t go where the a$$holes do, and very likely reduced the chances for a ski by half. And certainly for a trophy. Don’t mind cause it’s about relaxing and enjoying myself. Long and short, I say screw the channel, if it brings drama cut it off. Return to the simple enjoyment of fishing. I’m really getting into ‘rough’ fish, drum carp etc. just as fun and relaxing and no wannabe musky pros turning it into a drama queen contest. Very nice. Stopped watching all the musky channels (still follow yours and Mainas). I’m honestly just over it. Even bought a kayak and float tube to break away from the crowds. Back to what fishing is really all about to me.
It's never been easier to record content and put it out, but it's never been easier to pretend you're a hero.
Everyone has a gopro, in every sport. That's not gonna change. Everytime someone posts a video of a sick figure 8 eat, the rest of the musky world is looking to copy that.
We try to be different.
If we come back, we're calling out the 'heroes' for their exaggerated forced perspective, wide able photos, the lack of integrity by far too many guides, the power struggle to have the best pay-wall subscription based content that's keeping information out of the hands of young people and further educates the upper middle class with disposable income.
#NoShit... my brother went 30 days on Canadian water over 4 years-ZERO MUSKY!! He gave up musky fishing altogether. A trip or two a year whets the whistle... no shame in giving up the youthful pursuit of high volume musky hunting. All you need is a strong back and a weak will!!
It's a tough game to play for sure!
I think you just need to make some changes. Stop paying so much attention to what other people think and focus on yourself & your family. That’s all that matters at the end of the day.
Happy Holidays!!!
Thanks Willie, your so true!
Please push to make forward facing sonar illegal. It is wrecking the sport of musky fishing. Its turned into a video game. Fair chase is important. These special fish DESERVE fair chase.
Is it really? It's changed musky fishing, but it's still a small percentage of anglers that have it.
You think fish die from being caught with live scope? Or delayed mortality?
I would argue those that catch the most fish stand to lose the most fish due to delayed mortality.
The technology is not going anywhere. We have to use it ethically, and promote safe handling.
Maybe better regulations from state to state, no night fishing! That helps keep Eagle Lake a viable trophy fishery. A return to night fishing they're could decimate that population inside a decade. The funny thing is very few anglers night fish any way in northwestern Ontario.
Taking ffs out the equation is not gonna fix musky fishing overnight.
@@54orbust First off thanks for prompt reply. Love your channel. I hate the idea of FFS ethically. I think it cheapens the sport tremendously. More fish will and are be caught using FFS and the result is more angling mortality. Since when is the point of fishing to go outside and stare down at a screen all day? At the 2024 spring hearings Wisconsin did vote in favor of a FFS ban. I'd love to see WI anglers lead the way on this. I personally have lost interest in muskie fishing since FFS became popular. I used to absolute love it with a passion too. Makes me sad each day. It just isn't the same though. Ask yourself why you might of had a tougher season than normal? FFS has already changed muskie behavior. Muskies, like all animals adapt.
I don't disagree but how do you enforce a ban, unless it's on all fishing.
Companies are investing millions into it. You want the musky industry to lead by example?
Pressure the top guides and companies to stop sponsoring them and have them lead by example.
The only way this changes is seeing the pros go without it. Pressure the worst of the snipers to stop.
Its a never ending battle.
In my eyes we have to learn to find a way to live with it.
To my eyes, in northwestern Ontario the hard fishing was from over pressure. More anglers than I have ever seen. And got the record, very few eye using ffs, up here at least.
But you make valid points.
@@54orbust The FFS ban I'm advocating would apply to all fishing. Judging by the angler vote in WI (and likely Missouri next) folks do see the danger and have already voted against FFS use. What we now need is for the Wisconsin DNR to listen to the people and not be bought and swayed by these corporations that have invested millions in this tech. The people voted, ban FFS in WI now. These huge corporations don't care about the resource or ethics. They'd sell you a stick of dynamite and a book of matches to catch fish with if it was legal to use and it made them money. Don't settle for living with it man. Fight it. You are a pro, you have a voice that matters. Imo what is likely next will be use of an automated AI drone that leaves a docking station at 3 am, surveys the lake in transects using a high resolution LiDAR-like technology to locate large muskies, drone completes survey and returns to docking station at 7 am, drone begins recharging via a solar panel, recently collected data is automatically uploaded to lodge's head muskie guide's phone, at 8 am high $ 'pro' muskie guide takes clients to the section of lake with highest trophy muskie density as observed by the drone, they use advanced FFS tech to target/catch trophy fish, they arrive back to cabin by noon for lunch, rinse and repeat. Or we take a stand now and preserve the purity of the sport of fishing. This is a lose an inch lose a mile situation. The slope will only get more slippery.
Bro.... instead of hanging up the rods and quitting on fishing, maybe you should quit social media and enjoy fishing as it was before all of this!!! As much as most of us appreciate content like this, most of us also grew up in the late 90's and early 2000's where social media wasn't around, and we were all so much happier. To me it seems like you have a lot of pressure to satisfy your audience which at this point is only 5k subs, and it's getting in the way of enjoying fishing and family. Unless you are doing this for living (which you are not) who cares what everyone else thinks.
tight lines!!!
Oh I won't quit fishing, we live in the heart of the best musky waters on the planet.
It's about ambition and doing some good. And trying to help those that have put trust in us, from lure companies to our community.
Ya it's only 5000 subs but that's not nothing.
I grew up in a time the cops followed you home from pit parties, to make sure you made it.
Boxes of free lures are not free, the work we put in is to help them sell them.
The idiots that try to kick everyone down on social media are trying to undermine the whole retail market.
I can easily keep my family out of this but then I would be like everyone one else out there and I might as well rebrand to Glenn McDonald fishing.
It was never about me, it was always about you.
@@54orbust And as I stated earlier, many of us appreciate content like this, in some ways it helps us become better and if nothing it gives you the urge to go fishing. I also know you have obligations to your sponsors but how much is all that worth? You just gained another sub!!!
I lost every single big fish I had on this year including a few giants, never got one over 45 in the net. I was outfished like 10-2 on Green Bay and lost two Giants my last two trips. This year was a test and all I can do is put myself in the position to hopefully not f it up the next time. I think it was very trying for me because I kept making mistakes but I think there's something to be said for things not always going right but still sticking it out or even just going out that next day. I can't wait for next year I've got allot of unfinished business I've gotta take care of and some big fish that owe me pictures.
But the one thing I would say is just be careful using others as examples there's allot of hard headed guys in the industry and people don't like to be used as examples
I stand by the people I respect in the industry, and the choices we make to be different than them. And for the record "Cult" by Fishcamp might be the best musky related content ever put to youtube, nothing but respect for that.
Muskys Suck , i only fish Muskys in peak time , after 30 years of doing it i just don't have the time . Luckily I live by Green bay and almost always musky fish there.
Ya, got away from the all day grind stuff too. We pick and choose our times now as well. But it was still a tough go in 2024
no offense but you come off as overly dramatic and narcissitic. maybe take some time off to refresh and find out why you started doing this
You're entitled to your opinion, dramatic? Maybe, but that's the truth about how things feel. Narcissistic, doubt that, I've taken responsiblity for my short comings and only look to try make things better for those coming behind us. Do I blame a select group of well known anglers for most of the negativity in the industry? You bet.
Again, we're not for everyone and if you're here and don't like it, kindly move on.
@ I’m not trying to insult just being honest, I enjoy the videos for musky fishing but this just seemed over the top. I am glad you called out Doug he’s obviously a hammer of an angler but hard to listen to
I didn't call out Doug, I respect all he puts into it but why is it that the insustry thinks if you don't do 14hr days and don't eat, don't sleep, that that's the only way to be taken serious?
Why do I musky fish? Cause it's my stress dump, why did we start to film? If we can help one other angler, that's why.
No one is calling out some of this unrealistic bs that you have to go through to be taken serious.
Maybe I'm lose out maybe I won't. But we stand for something, that's more than I can say for many.
@@54orbust well he should be called out, muting yourself and putting “advice” behind a paywall especially for fishing is clown behaviour.
Just keep in mind 99% of your audience like me has no clue about any of this stuff behind the scenes. Most of the comments seem positive
Well I hope this is not going to be true. If so, thanks for all the entertainment over the years. And a sorry for this being my first comment to your channel. Chi miigwitch 🪶💨
Don't woory you won't be rid of us that easy. Plenty of stuff over the winter. And we'll see what the new musky season brings.
Thank you!