Let’s face it – to a musky angler in the upper Midwest, winter sucks! The only true cure for our cabin fever is to finally be able to cast our favorite sport show purchases at some big, slimy, beautiful females. Time in the boat indeed cures the soul; however, for the angler looking to get the net wet rather than just catch some rays, attention to details is imperative.
At no time of the musky season is this more important than when targeting early season muskies. Water temperatures, current patterns (where applicable), structural abnormalities and bottom content all play a significant role in not only where muskies will be located during this complex time, but where active fish will be located.
Muskies typically spawn in shallow water when water temperatures are between 50 and 60 degrees, with the mid 50-degree mark optimum. Musky spawning sites are usually shallow and contain some form of aquatic vegetation. This is the typical habitat but cannot be expected in every lake type. When such vegetated areas are not available, muskies seek out alternative areas/habitats for spawning. This could be submerged wood or sand/muck with leaf litter, but shallow water is generally key.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
What can Current Do For You?
WATER FLOW IN LAKES IS SUBTLE AND OFTEN OVERLOOKED. BUT MUSKIES USE IT, SO WHY SHOULDN’T YOU?
Mountain State Muskies In Spring
CATCH MUSKIES DURING TIMES WHEN NOTHING IS PREDICTABLE
Winter Presentations For Southern Rivers
Winter has arrived, yet in the South it’s still mild enough to keep fishing with the exception of maybe a week or two of an Arctic front.
Tune Up For The Season Ahead
Have you started making your plans for the upcoming fishing year?
Rob Manthei
Guide Rob Manthei’s love for the Vilas/Oneida County region of northern Wisconsin is deeply rooted. His father and grandfather started taking him there on fishing trips when he was just two years old, and he began guiding full-time at the age of 25.
Find The Right Structure In Deep, Clear Water
With breathtaking scenery, vast amounts of water, and complex and diverse structure, clear water Canadian Shield lakes offer some of the most sought-after musky fishing in the world. A bucket-list destination for the passionate and determined angler, there’s something truly special about being in the sanctuary of the great Canadian Shield lakes.
Multi-Species Or Bay Boat ... You Make The Choice
Is there really such a thing as a perfect musky boat? There are so many variables to choose from in the market today. Do I want a casting or trolling boat? Aluminum or fiberglass? Welded or riveted? Do I want a tiller, side console, dual console, or full windshield?
Region To Region
Region To Region
Genetic Study Yields Answers
STUDY SUGGESTS LEECH STRAIN IS NOT THE ‘SILVER BULLET’ FOR WISCONSIN MUSKY WATERS
Crawling Crankbaits To Catch Cold Water Muskies
Crankbaits catch plenty of muskies during spring, summer and fall, but the key to catching ’skies in the very early cold water season on these lures involves some special tricks.
