Advice on catching summer muskie?

[OldTimer]

Muskie may hold in deeper water, but will feed where their food source is more plentiful.

The spoon and large Mepps are suitable. It may be wise to research what lures and colours are popular on the specific lake you intend to fish.

Wire leaders or heavy mono shock leaders will minimize cut-offs. I use wire for trolling, and heavy saltwater mono leaders for casting - but wire would do.

Trolling is usually best along the outside edge of main lake weed lines located on the 15 to 20 foot contour range. Trolling velocity should be higher than that used for walleye or trout. Bottom bumping is really NOT necessary. If the Muskie gets interested it WILL catch your lure.

Casting can be good on shallower areas with good structure or along weed bed edges or pockets that are close to deep water. Again a faster retrieve will draw more attention. Top water baits should be fished quite aggressively (finesse is not necessary – I was asked by a friend once “Are you trying to snap that lure off the end of your line?).

There is little confusion if you’ve had a strike in this game.

Keep hooks sharp & set the hook HARD!

Horsing large Muskie is not recommended. A good smooth drag will aid success. If your drag chatters at higher settings – it’s better to back it off a tad and then palm/thumb the spool a bit.

Muskie are like large pike - in that they are boat/net shy. Seldom will you net one on it's first visit to boatside - be prepared for a sudden run or dive.

One last recommendation – if you do land a large one – these fish in spite of their ferociousness - can’t stand a lot of handling, or long periods out of water………… land it, unhook it fast, take your photos quickly, and then release it as soon as possible - after making sure it’s okay (or pump it to and fro a bit to get it awake and going strong).

Cheers,

OldTimer