Musky fishing demands power and finesse, and using a low-profile baitcasting reel is a game-changer for handling large lures and battling trophy fish. However, mastering the cast requires proper hand positioning and technique to ensure smooth, controlled presentations.Hand Positioning: The Foundatio
Muskies, or muskellunge, are apex predators native to Minnesota's Rainy River and Mississippi River drainages, with some populations stocked in other lakes. Known for their elusive nature and low population densities, these fish play a unique role in lake ecosystems. Recent research conducted in Min
Fishing Conditions and Water TemperaturesWe hope everyone is having a great fishing season so far! Fishing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin has been good, with fluctuating air temperatures causing water temperatures to vary. Currently, water temperatures are in the low to mid-60s.Finding Fish in the N
Cajun Style Walleye FishsticksMoreIngredients- 1 lb walleye fillets, cut into strips- 1 cup all-purpose flour- 2 eggs, beaten- 1 cup cornmeal- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning- 1 tsp garlic powder- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika- 1/2 tsp salt- 1/4 tsp black pepper- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)- 1/
Tannic lakes, like those scattered across the Northwoods of Wisconsin, get their dark, coffee-colored water from natural organic matter — mainly decomposing leaves, pine needles, and peat from surrounding wetlands and forests. This tannin-stained water gives the lake a rich, tea-like hue, often appe
If you’re heading North this summer, make note of this gem nestled in the heart of Iron County. Lake of the Falls is a 297-acre pristine lake with excellent fishing potential and never-ending vistas. Located near Mercer, Wisconsin, this scenic lake is a must-visit for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts
Northern Musky Season Opens May 24thThe Northern Musky season kicks off on May 24th, and we couldn’t be more excited!Outstanding Fishing Conditions for Multiple SpeciesWalleye, Smallmouth bass, Crappie, and panfish fishing have all been excellent. A stretch of warm temperatures pushed water levels t
Northern Wisconsin isn’t just a place of breathtaking autumn colors and lush summer landscapes—it’s also home to a vibrant underwater world where submerged vegetation creates complex, life-sustaining habitats. For musky anglers, understanding these aquatic plants and their relationship with our favo
2025 Notable Musky Season Tournament ScheduleMoreTournament NameDateLocationEntry FeePrizesNotesPMTT - Q1: Lief Labs Spring ShootoutApril 26–27Cave Run Lake, KY$700$25,000 first placeHosted by Morehead Rowan County TourismSpring Classic of Champions Musky TournamentJune 14–15Eagle River Chain of Lak
Musky Fishing Seasons 2025United StatesWisconsinNorthern Zone: Start: May 24, 2025End: December 31, 2025Source: Wisconsin DNRSouthern Zone: Start: May 3, 2025End: December 31, 2025Source: Wisconsin DNRNotes: Applies to open-water fishing. Specific waterbodies may have exceptions.MinnesotaGeneral Inl
Game Fishing Season Kicks Off with Promising StartThe game fishing season opened a few days ago, and it’s off to an excellent start. Anglers are reporting success across a variety of species, setting the stage for an exciting season.Current Water ConditionsWater temperatures are currently ranging fr
River fishing for muskies can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially in areas like the Wisconsin River, where muskie populations thrive with less fishing pressure compared to lakes. Based on insights from experienced guides, here are key tips to help beginning anglers successfully targe
Butter Broiled TroutMoreIngredients2 trout fillets (about 6-8 oz each)4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted2 cloves garlic, minced1 tbsp fresh lemon juice1 tsp salt½ tsp black pepper½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)1 tbsp fresh parsley, choppedLemon wedges, for servingInstructionsPreheat the broiler – Se
Spring is a prime time for musky fishing, as these elusive predators become more active in warming waters. However, cooler temperatures and changing conditions require a strategic approach with smaller, versatile lures to entice lethargic muskies. Based on insights from Musky Shop Anglers, here’s a
Spring Fishing Update in MinocquaWinter is finally behind us, and it's time to hit the waters for some fishing in the Minocqua area. Many anglers have already started, and we're seeing more boats on the water. While the game fish season in Northern Wisconsin remains closed, fishing for crappies and
Musky fishing demands gear that can take a beating and keep casting — over and over again. When it comes to reels, you're looking for power, durability, and comfort over long sessions. Here’s a breakdown of how these top-tier musky reels compare.1. Svivlo Genesis OneSpecs & Features:Slightly smaller
A Destination for Musky Enthusiasts and AnglersFor April’s Lake of the Month, it seems fitting to explore a lake that gives some respite to those chomping at the bit for musky season. Escanaba Lake can be of interest for those who are interested in trying for musky outside of the regular season and
Musky trolling is a key component of a complete and successful musky fishing game plan. The bigger the water, the larger the role trolling plays in consistently putting trophy-class muskies in the net. As a professional musky guide, I rely on trolling as a mainstay in my year-round musky strategy. I
Depending on where you are located, winter is mostly behind us. Many of you throughout the US have been fishing already, however here in the Northwoods of Wisconsin our game fishing season is closed, and we still have approximately 13 inches of ice on our lakes as of April 9, 2025.Ice Fishing for Cr
If you’re one of the thousands loading up this year to fish the expansive waters of Green Bay, don’t let your excitement overshadow your preparation.There are many target locations along the river mouths, mud flats, Western edges, and sandy shallows, but getting caught without the right lures in tow
Here's a recipe for a comforting Land O' Lakes Perch and Pea Casserole:Ingredients:1.5 lbs perch fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup1/2 cup milk1 cup frozen peas1/2 cup chopped onion1/4 cup butter, melted1 cup shredded cheddar cheese1 cup crushed butte
The muskellunge, or "musky," is the stuff of fishing legends—a elusive giant lurking in North American lakes, prized for its size and fight. But every now and then, this toothy predator reminds us it’s not just anglers who get a surprise. In two rare and fascinating incidents, muskies turned casual
Greetings Everyone,We hope you’re enjoying great fishing weather, whether it’s late ice fishing or open water fishing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Fishing conditions here have been excellent, though we’re nearing the end of the ice fishing season. Read on for the latest updates on ice conditions,
As many anglers are consumed with catching and photographing their trophy muskies for posterity, it’s less common to focus on the not-so-fun parts like musky fish handling, tool use, and post-release survival strategies. Often dubbed the "fish of 10,000 casts," landing an elusive muskellunge can flo