For the Midwestern muskie addict, right now can be a pretty depressing time of the year. In most parts of northern Wisconsin and Minnesota many, if not all, of our favorite muskie waters are still shielded by the last remaining strongholds of winter. Even this past week I heard that people were still fishing my favorite muskie lake in Vilas County!
You’re probably beyond sorting your tackle box. For many of you, you’ve probably done it three or four times, even. All of your Muskies Inc. magazines are probably worn out and your stir-craziness is driving your wife/significant other crazy. If these symptoms describe you of late, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
But besides staring at the clock and crossing the numbered days off your calendar until muskie season opens, here are a few things you might consider doing to help cure (or at least treat) your spring muskie blues.
Pete Maina's "Muskies Suck"
1) Read a good muskie book:
I don’t necessarily mean reading a tactical book on fishing muskies. If you’re suffering from the spring muskie blues you’ve already been bitten by the ‘bug’ and probably know a thing or two about muskie fishing. I’m talking about reading a light-hearted, fun book. If you haven’t already, I recommend reading Pete Maina’s “Muskies Suck” or “The Greatest Musky Stories Ever Told” compiled by the writers of Musky Hunter Magazine. These two are a couple of books guaranteed to make you laugh, teach you a few things, and help pass the time until the season finally arrives.
2) Research three new lakes to fish:
We all have our favorite spot–that particular lake we turn to when all else fails. You probably know the body of water like the back of your hand. And that’s all fine and dandy. But, we as muskie fisherman know that one of our most important abilities is being able to adapt. So why not take the time to expand our ability to do this by learning three new lakes to fish? While you can’t really truly learn a lake until you’re on the water, there’s nothing wrong with doing some back-up research to help shorten the learning curve. Study some maps, talk to some local guides, read up on past fishing reports. This way, when it conditions aren’t exactly perfect for your favorite fish-producing lake, you’ll have a few more options to fish without fishing blindly. Plus, there’s always the chance that the grass will be greener on the other side. Who knows, you just may end up finding that new “perfect spot.” (more…)
Mitch Larson Outdoors 