Do you dream of musky fishing but lack the confidence to catch one because all expert anglers have failed to do so? If so, there is no reason to worry as you are not alone.
Most of the anglers do not go to catch musky because it is a rare fish. If you have the correct information about fishing spots and gadgets, it is possible to catch one.
We have a comprehensive article to provide you with valuable tips in catching a musky considering your problems. So, read the article to find out more.
Musky Fishing: Overview
Musky fishing is not as simple as other types of fishing. It is present in only two countries. So, it can narrow down the chances of grabbing a musky. Still, it is possible to find a musky. Thus, go through this article, and you will surely know how it is possible.
What is Musky Fish?
Musky is a freshwater fish with several names, such as the musky, lunge, and muskie. It is North America’s native and the most prominent member of the Esocidae family.
Young muskies prefer to eat small gizzard fish, minnows, and several other types of fish. On the flip side, the adult musky likes to feed on common carp, gizzard shad, buffalo fish, and suckers.
When Is the Best Time to Fish For Musky Fish?
Undoubtedly, fall is the best time of the year to trap muskies. In this season, they tend to feed more to add fat to their body. This fat can assist in keeping them warm in colder seasons.
So, they try to feed more than usual. That’s why whenever you cast a bait, fish will attract towards it. However, it depends on the personal choices of the anglers. But calm afternoons of fall or night are the ideal times to catch a fish.
Tips For Catching Musky Fish
Having a strong grip on tips and techniques may prove a game-winner when it comes to fishing. The methods for catching every fish are different. So, it is highly significant to learn about the right musky fishing tips that can aid you in trapping your desired fish.
Gather Accurate Information
If you want to enjoy your venture at its best, we recommend collecting the most relevant information. You must have to know about the habitat, diet, and behavior of the fish.
Moreover, try your best to know the details about where you are heading for fishing. If you luckily get this essential information, your adventure can be beautiful and pleasant.
Equip Yourself With the Right Gadget
Lack of equipment can become a hurdle in your way. So, wherever you go fishing, search for a suitable gadget to help you catch the fish.
There is a wide range of fishing gear with various lengths, thicknesses, and sizes. Therefore, after figuring out the type of fish you want to attract, select the most proper gear.
In the case of musky, the small pole can not work out. So, you have to get a pole of at least 7-8 feet. Also, the weight of the line needs to be 20 pounds.
Musky fish is comparatively heavier than bass and several other fish. The biggest musky catch ever is more than 60 pounds.
Besides, these fishing gear carry glasses, a hat, waterproof jacket, wader boots along with yourself. Additionally, it will assist if you have a bottle of drinking water and eating items.
Use Barbless Hooks
If you have searched about musky, then you must come to know that it has tough skin. Furthermore, its mouth is large and contains sharp teeth.
Therefore the extraction of a sharp hook caught into the mouth of musky may prove a daunting task. So, to avoid this complication, it will perform better if you use a barbless hook.
Never Compromise On Baits and Lures
Beginners usually find it tough to choose the right bait or lure. In addition, some newcomers do not give importance to this point as they think it will be okay to go with any bait or lure.
But, let me correct you here newcomers, every fish has some favorite food, and they will trap if you use that specific food.
Research and Find Out Fishing Spots
If you have not searched for the fishing spots, you alleviate your chances of catching a musky. In a fish-like musky that is not readily available, exploring the fishing spots becomes even more necessary.
Muskies are North America’s native. In addition to that, they are present in only 8-10 American states. Besides these, they can be found in some provinces of Canada. Hatcheries and breeding programs help distribute Musk across the different states in the US and Canada.
Moreover, these fish prefer to live in deep cold water. You can gather information from the local tackle shop or consult veteran anglers. They must have something worthy to share. There is a lot of information online you can also take advantage of.
Change Positions frequently
If you want to become successful in finding musky, then it may prove an excellent idea to change your positions frequently. In this way, by changing the positions, you may become able to find a fish.
Prepare Yourself For Cold Water
Muskies prefer to live in cold water. So, to make your fishing experience wholesome, you need to take warm clothes along with yourself. But it does not mean you cannot fish them in other seasons of the year.
Baits for Musky Fishing
Nobody can deny the importance of bait in fishing. Irrespective of the type of fish, having a bait is extremely important. So, here we will discuss some of the efficient baits available in the market.
Figure 8
Figure 8 has become a popular term, especially in the case of musky. It is a collection of boat-side tactics for the catching of the following fish. Learning about the details of the process can help in catching more muskies.
Bucktails
When it comes to baits for musky, the bucktails are undoubtedly an ideal choice. Bucktails can produce vibrations. The lateral line of musky can feel this vibration and then rush towards it.
Depending upon the conditions, the bucktails can have different speeds. Double nine blades as well double ten blades are one of the best options available in the market.
Glide Baits
There is no doubt in the effectiveness of the glide baits, but the problem is they are hard to handle. It demands a lot of practice and hard work to use glide baits. However, it is challenging to operate, but once you learn the skill, it will surely assist you in catching more muskies.
You have several glide baits available in the market with multiple styles. We will suggest you figure out one that can work best for you.
Other Baits
Besides these, there are several different baits available in the market. Some of the most popular options are Crankbaits, jigs, minnows, and swimbaits. Additionally, you will get these baits in different shapes, sizes and actions.
Do experiments by using various types of baits, and at the end, you will evaluate a bait that can perform best for you. Furthermore, you will come to know how to figure out a bait that can perform best in a specific condition.
Suitable Equipment for Musky Fishing
Musky fishing is an expensive sport, and you have to buy rods, reels, lines, and releasing tools of premium quality. Check out the details regarding essential musky fishing gear.
Release Tools
One of the most crucial things in the process of catching a musky is catching and releasing time. If you do not concentrate on the releasing process, then there are chances that fish will die. So, here are the essential things.
- Hook cutters/ heavy leverage bolt
- Musky-sized jaw spreaders
- Needle-pose pliers
- Release Gloves
- Muskie Bumper
- 40″ X 44″ Net
Rods
Having many rods, mainly if you are a beginner, is a challenging task. Therefore, you need to have a one size fits all rod. Your rod must be strong and soft at the same time. The rod should be strong and capable of enduring the large rubber baits.
Additionally, the softness of the rod can assist in gliding the baits so it will top the waters. A rod of 8’6-9 or even longer than it may prove an ideal choice.
Reels
The reel should make a perfect combo with the rod. In the market, there is a wide range of reels available. So, if you take care of your reel, it will remain functional for an extended period. Keep in mind to get a rod and reel combo for your fishing journey.
Lines and Leaders
Lastly, you must need to have high-quality lines and leaders. It can make an excellent combo if you choose a fluorocarbon leader of 1500-2000 pound-test along with a braided line of 100 pound-test.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section of the musky fishing guide will answer some FAQs to make your mind clearer.
Is Musky fish hard to catch?
Yes, Muskies are indeed among the fish that are challenging to catch. There are a lot of reasons behind it. First, they are not readily available, so it is not easy to find a spot near you where musky is present.
The second reason is that their mood changes during the day. That’s why it becomes difficult to catch a musky.
How do you fish for musky?
You need to have a lure of large size for catching a musky. Remember that the lure length must not be in the range of 5-10 but never go for a lure less than that.
If you stand in a boat that is motoring at a slow speed, you will become able to cover a large area, enhancing the chances of catching a fish.
What is the best time for musky?
Fall is the ideal time to catch a musky. September and October are the months when you can trap a fish if you have used suitable equipment and lure.
Is musky a good fish to eat?
Who would like to go through such a hardship to catch musky if it did not have good taste? So, if you cook the musky properly, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
Final Verdict
Well! That was all about musky fishing so far. Although catching a musky fish is a hard job, never let go of your hobby just for the sake of difficulty. Do practice and try to learn it despite failing every time you fish. One day, you will be amazed to see that you have mastered the skill.
We are optimistic that this article will aid you in learning musky fishing. If you are a beginner and want to ask anything, go for it. However, if you are a pro angler, please share your secret tips with us in the comments section for beginners.
