As we step into the final stretch of winter, spring is, believe it or not, right around the corner. With open water and musky season drawing closer by the day, now is the time to prepare for the 2026 musky season, and it all starts with your equipment. Preparation now ensures your gear will be in prime condition when it matters most. Let’s look at a few key areas that are often overlooked. You need to be battle-ready before musky season 2026 arrives.
Hooks
Hooks are the direct connection between you and a musky. If they are not in prime condition, all of your effort can be for nothing. Hooks that have been bent should be replaced immediately. When a hook bends, it causes metal fatigue, which can quickly lead to failure under pressure. Modern hook alloys are far stronger than the bronze hooks of decades past, but those stronger materials are also more brittle. An important rule of thumb is simple: a bent hook is a dead hook. Replace it.
Rust and corrosion must also be addressed. Hooks that are pitted or show any signs of rust should be replaced. Corrosion compromises structural integrity, and once a hook begins to deteriorate, its strength is at best questionable.
If you need to replace hooks but are unsure of the make, model, or size, the Musky 360 App includes the Musky Hook Library. This feature lists hook specifications directly from lure manufacturers, allowing you to quickly reference and source the exact hooks your bait requires.
When replacing hooks, consider upgrading to a premium option. High-quality hooks, such as BKK, are extremely sharp out of the package and feature a protective black coating that resists rust and corrosion. Starting the season with fresh, razor-sharp hardware gives you confidence when the fish of a lifetime eats boatside.
Rods
Musky rods take a beating. They are tossed around the boat, banged against gunwales during figure eights, and exposed to extreme weather conditions. Before loading up for the season, spend a few minutes carefully inspecting your rod.
Start by checking each line guide for cracks, chips, or abrasions. Damage to a guide can and will cause line failure. Begin with a visual inspection, then run your finger or a cotton swab around the inside of each guide to detect rough spots or fractures. Any damaged guide should be replaced immediately.
While inspecting the guides, apply light pressure to ensure they are still firmly secured to the blank. If you notice minor movement, a small drop of gel super glue can help lock it back in place. However, significant play or structural damage will require professional rod repair. Taking the time now to inspect and maintain your rod could be the difference between landing a giant in 2026 and telling the story about the one that got away.
Nets
Musky nets are among the most abused and neglected pieces of gear anglers own. They get stepped on, rained on, frozen, and exposed to every weather condition imaginable. While your net should always be inspected for overall functionality, such as ensuring the handle extends properly and is not warped, the most overlooked element is the net bag itself.
The bags of musky nets are made of synthetic fibers that can weaken over time from prolonged UV exposure. That UV exposure, combined with temperature fluctuations, can create brittle netting that tears easily under pressure. Before you hit the water this season, visually and physically inspect your net bag to ensure there are no weak spots, fraying, or damage. A compromised net at boatside is the last surprise you want when a trophy fish is ready for capture.
You can never be overprepared for musky fishing, and regardless of preparation, you must always expect the unexpected. Take the time to check all your gear, including everything discussed in this article, as well as your reels, lures, and boat. A thorough preseason inspection ensures you are starting the 2026 musky season organized, confident, and ready to capitalize on every opportunity that comes your way.