Distribution – The original muskellunge range in Wisconsin was generally confined to lakes and rivers in the drainage of the Chippewa River above Chippewa Falls, the Wisconsin River above Hat Rapids near Rhinelander, and the Amnicon River in Douglas County. The distribution has been extended, particularly to the south, by stocking. Wisconsin currently has noRead More >
Muskellunge researchers in Wisconsin use scientific experiments to find ways to improve muskellunge populations, and as a result improve the quality of muskellunge angling. A good research program forms a solid foundation that enables biologists to manage and protect muskellunge for future generations. Research studies take on a variety of shapes and forms from evaluationRead More >
As soon as the ice comes off your favorite Muskie Lake it’s time to put away the ice fishing equipment and break out the boat for some late winter/ early spring Muskie action. Right after ice off the water temperatures start to rise. Baitfish and muskies alike start to move up in the water columnRead More >
Angling for muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) is a specialized endeavor involving species-specific equipment and handling procedures. The latter were developed by anglers with little influence from fisheries managers or the scientific community. Today, release rates approach 100% for specialized anglers; therefore, a formal evaluation of these procedures was warranted. Using two handling treatments – one toRead More >
Muskellunge researchers in Wisconsin use scientific experiments to find ways to improve muskellunge populations, and as a result improve the quality of muskellunge angling. A good research program forms a solid foundation that enables biologists to manage and protect muskellunge for future generations. Research studies take on a variety of shapes and forms from evaluationRead More >
When it comes to rock bars, this one has it all — boulders, a gradual slope before a sudden drop-off to a main lake basin, and located on an island that already is a must-fish spot. This rock bar is a veritable “spot on the spot.”Yet I had never caught a musky there. Musky Hunter’sEditor,Read More >
“Honey, I’m leaving for fishing practice now, see you later.” What? Fishing practice? Sounds absurd doesn’t it? While your spouse or significant other may be suspicious, I submit it’s not absurd at all. We practice hoops, golf, shooting-heck every sport we engage in except fishing. I wouldn’t waste valuable hunting time without practicing with anyRead More >
Hi folks. This topic came to mind as I sat in a tree bow hunting in early November. This bow season, I really tinkered with scent. Eliminating mine (carbon lined clothing, spray-on scent eliminators, etc.) and trying to attract deer with various sorts of homemade and commercial concoctions. Why? Curiosity, and, of course, trying toRead More >
Hi folks. It’s August as I sit here typing this, and I’m reflecting on a three day Lake of the Woods trip my wife and I just completed. I decided that what we did on this particular trip, and why, might be interesting and a little thought provoking. So here’s a summary. We caught 9Read More >
Ah, the good old Spinnerbait, one of the most fish catchingest baits ever designed. The ultimate “crescent wrench”. A tool that works fast, slow, shallow, deep, and in almost any kind of structure you can encounter. Here I’ll talk about fishing weeds and rocks with a spinnerbait. Being the versatile tool it is, a spinnerbaitRead More >
Hey, I like to run and gun like everyone else. If the fish are ‘going,’ it’s hard to beat the wham-bam and move on approach. Likewise, if I’m scouting new water it makes sense to put on a bucktail, surface bait or some other search bait that lets me cover and learn the water quickly.Read More >
Hi folks. In my opinion muskies, like whitetails, are creatures of edges. However, I wonder how many of us addicts think about edges and their importance to our success. Until recently I really hadn’t considered combining edges as a ‘thought process’ I should be concerned about when on the water. When deer hunting I wouldRead More >
