Trolling this Fall: Tactics and Gear
Trolling for musky in the fall is an exhilarating challenge that combines skill, patience, and the right equipment to succeed. As the water cools, muskies become more active, making it an ideal time for anglers to target these apex predators. The Northern Lakes and Rivers offer a picturesque backdrop for this pursuit, with their complex structures and abundant forage providing the perfect habitat for musky.
When it comes to baits, large, slow-moving lures are the go-to during the fall. Soft plastic lures like the Bull Dawg are versatile and can mimic the slower, lethargic movements of cold-water prey. Additionally, crankbaits that can dive deep and navigate close to the lakebed, such as the Suick Cisco Kid 1800, Grandma 9” Crankbait, or Supernatural 10” Headlock, are effective in attracting muskies that follow the contours of the underwater landscape. These lures wag and wonder producing an enticing display for hungry muskies in pursuit.
The gear you choose is just as important as the bait when it comes to success. A heavy-duty trolling rod paired with a Line-Counting reel and strong line, preferably 80lb or higher, is essential to withstand the musky's powerful strikes and the stress of trolling over structure. Line-counting reels are great for accuracy in measuring the distance your lure maintains so that you can repeat successful avenues over and over during your season. A wire leader is also a must to prevent bite-offs from these toothy fish, keeping the musky population thriving for future seasons.
Navigating while trolling is a skill that can greatly increase your chances of success. Using a fish finder or GPS to identify and follow underwater structures such as drop-offs, rock piles, and weed lines is crucial. These structures are hotspots for muskies, especially in the fall when they are actively feeding to prepare for winter.
When trolling over these structures, it's important to adjust your speed and direction to cover different depths and angles. Varying your speed can trigger strikes from muskies that are following but not biting. Additionally, zigzagging rather than moving in a straight line can cause your lures to rise and fall, mimicking injured prey and provoking an attack. Zig-zags don’t have to be dramatic, just slight turns that cause direction shifts on the lures themselves. It’s important to make your lure appear as life-like as possible.
Fall trolling for musky in Northern Lakes and Rivers is a rewarding experience for those who come prepared. With the right baits, gear, and navigation techniques, anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching one of the most sought-after freshwater game fish during its most active season. Remember to respect the environment and practice catch and release to ensure these magnificent creatures continue to thrive for generations to come.
Musky fishing, musky hunter, musky shop, musky lures, musky on the fly, musky fly fishing, musky flies, musky fever, musky addict, musky guide, musky shop guide service, muskie fishing, muskie nation, muskies, Canada, Northwoods, Wisconsin, muskies, fishing guides, fishing guide service, fiske, esox, pike, snoeken, rods, reels, lures, baits, line, leader, net, tackle box,