arch, There's lots of reasons behind it. First off, when one talks about a world record, they are usually talking about the largest officially recognized caught fish for the species. There are generally two organizations recognized for their official records, the IGFA (internation game fish assoc.) and the Freshwater fishing hall of fame. Each organization has their own criteria for certifying record fish.
The 70lb 0z robert malo fish is not regonized by either organization because of " the questionable weigh-in and the fact that it was shot (common practice then) prior to landing it"
the Arthur lawton fish used to be recognized by both organizations, but (from what i understand) some wisconsin musky nuts were able to get it removed from the books becuase lawton screwed up his paperwork to the Field and Stream organization...but lawton's fish is still recognized by New York State.
That leaves us with luis sprays 69lb 11ounce fish from wisconsin. From everything i have found, that fish is currently recognized by both organizations as the official record
I've found nothing on a mass. world record muskie.
