Musky America Magazine November 2024 Edition Thank you for visiting Musky America Magazine! The days are getting shorter, the water is cooling down and the Musky are getting ready to “put on the feed bag”. In this issue I have included articles about weather, lure selection and tactics. Craig Sandell Owner and Fellow Musky Angler The Icons shown here are at the bottom of the Magazine pages. All Rights Reserved © 2024
Rods & Reels & Other Stuff Craig Sandell © 2016 I have gotten some Email concerning the storage of Muskie equipment during the cold off season period. I have done a little research and offer the following for your consideration: RODS Technically speaking, the fiber glass and composite graphite material used for Muskie rods should not be affected by the cold. Having said that, however, you must consider that any material that is subjected to extremes in temperature is likely to be effected in some way. Consider also, that many Muskie anglers have rods with cork butts. Cork is likely to retain some moisture. When moisture is frozen, it tends to expand causing some displacement to adjacent areas. This can translate into shorter life for the butt material of your rod. I would recommend that you store your rods in an area where the temperature does not get below freezing. The basement, the den, a hall closet; all of these would be a good choice. REELS Throughout the season, your reels are constantly subjected to moisture. Regardless of what you do, some moisture will remain in your reels. In addition, the grease used as lubricant in your reels will, under extremely cold temperatures, freeze. When the
grease thaws, it will become brittle because the moisture in the grease will have separated. Your reel lubrication will no longer be effective. As with the Rods, store your reels somewhere in the home where the temperature will remain above freezing. LURES Lures, especially wooden lures, will be damaged by extremely cold temperatures. Keep your lures in the house where they are warm. You have invested a lot of money in those lures and you need to treat them accordingly. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Prolonged storage of electrical equipment such as, depth finders, flashers, GPS systems, etc. in temperatures under freezing may cause the seals in the LCD compartments to rupture. In all cases, follow the manufacturer's instructions for storage. If you are unsure, keep them in the house where it is warm. A PARTING WORD All Muskie equipment was designed to be most effective in the warmer periods of the year. Don't put your equipment anywhere where you would not want to spend the winter. There is nothing more disappointing than the discovery that your equipment is no longer up to the rigors of Muskie fishing.
An Interview With Rich Reinert Wisconsin Musky Expo Organizer By Craig Sandell With all of the other Musky shows that punctuate the off season, I was curious why Rich Reinert decided to make the personal commitment required to organize a successful Musky Expo. To satisfy my curiosity, I sat down with Rich to get his perspective. I asked Rich what motivated him to create the Wisconsin Musky Expo. "Well, to be honest, I was disappointed with the way the usual Musky Expos had evolved. Being a Northern Wisconsin resident, I found myself having to brave the winter weather to drive to Chicago or Milwaukee and found myself seeing the same large retailers and hearing the same spiel from the same seminar speakers…I thought to myself; I Can Do Better." I asked Rich what makes the Wisconsin Musky Expo in Wausau any better than the other shows. "In a word, ‘traditionalism’. Musky fishing has never had the following that Bass fishing has enjoyed and, as a consequence, Musky lure manufacturing has always been a ‘cottage industry’. Somewhere along the way in pursuit of the bottom line, the mass produced Musky lures from large retailers replaced the availability of high quality lures being made in limited quantities by dedicated Musky anglers. It was in my mind to change that dynamic when I established the Wisconsin Musky Expo in
Wausau. The 2012 Expo was a great success with not only local Northern Wisconsin Retailers but also the small Musky lure manufacturers that have been a traditional source of innovation for our sport." I asked Rich why these smaller manufacturers are not better represented at the other Musky shows. "That is simple…the high cost of show participation. The other shows charge upwards of $650.00 for a standard booth space. The small manufacturer cannot afford that type of initial costs and offset the costs of travel, lodging, meals and product display. Add to that the overwhelming impact placed upon them by competition from the larger retailers and it is easy to see why choice in lure innovation is generally extinct at the other Musky shows." I told Rich that I could see his point but then, aren’t there better opportunities for Musky anglers to get Musky information from seminar speakers at the other shows? "Well, I am probably going to get some flak for this but here is my perspective. The other shows seem to have the same list of speakers year after year with the same presentations in an attempt to encourage folks to buy their stuff rather than to impart tips that will actually help them be successful on the water. Some of the best seminar presenters are conspicuously absent from the other shows. You see the same faces with the same presentations at the Chicago, Milwaukee, Michigan, and Minneapolis shows. My Wausau show has presentations by accomplished Musky anglers who you will not hear at the other Musky shows. These seminar guests provide the serious Musky angler with what he really needs; solid first-hand information that can lead to success on the water.
I asked Rich why he chose Wausau for the sight of his Musky Expo. "The concept behind the Wisconsin Musky Expo is rooted in the belief that Musky anglers in the fertile waters of Northern Wisconsin should not have to drive to Milwaukee, Chicago or Minneapolis to see new lures and have access to Musky services and resorts. I also wanted the Expo to be friendly to the ‘cottage industry’ of small lure manufacturers; the place where most lure innovations over the past 50 years have been hatched. In addition, I also wanted the Expo to be a great family Musky outing rather than the madhouse atmosphere you find at the other shows. The 2012 show achieved that goal and the 2013 show is shaping up to be ‘heads and tails’ above last year. We have free Musky lures for the first 200 people attending on Friday and 100 free rods for children under the age of 12 on Sunday." Interviewer’s Note: Rich and I spoke at some length and after the interview I was convinced that he was the "Real McCoy". It isn’t often in this day of slick advertising that you run across someone as genuine as Rich. I was so impressed with Rich that I decided to do something that I have never done…I decided to exhibit at the Wisconsin Musky Expo. I will see you there. Tight lines
Single Hook Sucker Rigging: Is It A Kill Rig? By: John Dettloff © 2004 Musky fishing with single hook sucker rigs is becoming one of the most controversial issues to face musky anglers in decades. In fact, during the past year the subject was probably the most discussed and hotly debated of all on many Musky forums. Just the mention of the subject in a room filled with musky fisherman is likely to divide the room into two opposing groups. One side will quickly condemn the use of single book sucker rigs, considering them as being nothing more than 'kill rigs:' and the other will staunchly condone the method, asserting that it is not any more harmful to Muskies than any other method. The fact is, however, that neither group can cite definitive scientific or biological evidence to conclusively support their respective positions. This age-old debate can be expected to rage on until definitive evidence is discovered to support the question, one way or the other. Such evidence may soon emerge that will finally put this debate to rest. What seems to have fueled the debate even more during the past year was the first year's results of the Chippewa Flowage Musky Radio Telemetry Study. One of the study areas focused on the survivability of Muskies which are caught and released after being gut-hooked with a single hook sucker rig. Regardless of what you may have heard. The first year's findings of the sucker hook portion of this study have not yet been fully
revealed, simply because all the data has not been available until only recently. It is not the intention of this article to prolong the debate, but rather to announce that a more comprehensive study specifically tailored to finally answer these questions is underway. As this new study's findings become available, we intend to share this information with you in the hope that an informed mind will stand a better chance of making rational decisions regarding this topic. In order to understand how we got to this point, a recap of the first year of the Chippewa Flowage Musky Study is needed. FIRST YEAR FINDINGS The Chippewa Flowage Musky Study answered some of the most important long-asked questions regarding Muskies and musky fishing. For example, no other study has revealed, with high confidence levels, such things as: annual and multi-year recapture rates; reliable annual mortality rates; reliable annual exploitation rates; positive confirmation of conditioning as a result of catch and release; deep water preferences for the majority of Muskies studied; extreme variances in growth rates; data showing that no way of holding a musky had any greater or less impact on mortality.
The implications of the first year findings are potentially enormous for fisheries management as well as musky fishing as a sport. For fisheries management, the first year of the Chippewa Flowage Musky Study-Year 1 (CFMS-Y 1) provides fisheries managers with greatly improved data by which to estimate fisheries populations, make stocking decisions, and to better determine prudent size limits. For musky fishing, the CFMSY1 smashed many of the longest held beliefs, but also confirmed some of the things that we, as musky fishermen, have come to rely on in our pursuit of Old Esox. The CFMS-Y1 findings are, for the most part, not necessarily exclusive to the Chippewa Flowage; but rather, are likely reflective of musky behavior anywhere. TWO REMAINING QUESTIONS As noted, the CFMS-Y1 is completed. The large and diversified consortium of agencies that were part of the first year of the CFMS continue to analyze the data for additional insight into the world of the musky. To recap -the finding for the first year came from the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe, the U.S. Dept. of Interior and the Hayward Lakes Chapter of Muskies, Inc. As a result of this cooperation, all of the questions that were part of the original study were answered with the exception of two. They are: Whether two genetically different species of Muskies exist. The mortality (death) rate of Muskies caught and released while utilizing the single hook sucker method. These two remaining questions are among the most discussed in musky fishing. But, of the two questions, the most controversial involves the use of the single hook sucker rig.
To address the questions surrounding the single hook rig, a spinoff study, hereinafter known as the Chippewa Flowage Musky Study -Year Two (CFMS-Y2), has been initiated. The CFMS-Y2 study team includes Scott Allen, former study coordinator of the CFMS-Y I; Chippewa Flowage Guide and resort owner John Dettloff, who will manage the spin-off study. Hayward guide and Muskies, Inc., representative Art Malin will help monitor the study Muskies. The spin-off study, or CFMS-Y2, has received funding from two Muskies, Inc. chapters: the Hayward Lakes Chapter donated $4,250; and the South of the Border Chapter donated $2,000. Hayward Lakes Chapter President Mike Persson probably said it best when he stated, "What good does it do to talk about such things as size limit adjustments and stocking levels if single hook rigs are killing Muskies before they get the chance to grow to their full potential?" HISTORY OF SUCKER RIGS Long before musky anglers had much to choose from in the line of artificial bait selection, live bait was a frequently used method. At first, bait choices weren't just limited to suckers, either. Any critter, such as bullheads, perch, frogs, and even mice and chipmunks were often used. But suckers soon surfaced as the live bait of preference. Large suckers are effective, but the chances of hooking a musky in the mouth with such a large bait are diminished. Since Muskies grab suckers at mid-body and a single hook rig places the hook in the sucker's mouth, it is necessary for the angler to wait for the musky to swallow the sucker to ensure a hookup. These Muskies are usually hooked in the stomach. This technique has been used for Muskies for years.
A most unique and crude method of utilizing suckers during the early days was using what was known as the "musky spike." A line was attached to the center of a pencil-length, barbed, metal spike and slid deep into a live sucker's gullet, and the sucker was then trolled behind the boat in the usual manner. Once swallowed by a musky, this spike would lodge itself crossways inside the Musky's gullet the moment that the "hook" was set. Obviously not a method to be used if a Musky was to be released. The musky spike was quickly denounced as being unsporting, unethical, and - most certainly - a kill rig. Anglers eventually realized that any Musky that was unfortunate enough to swallow a musky spike stood no sporting chance. Therefore, and interestingly enough, this method was discontinued, not through legislation but because common sense prevailed. Most recently, sucker-using fishermen have theorized that single hook sucker rigs may be killing too many fish so they have switched to using one of a wide variety of quick-set sucker rigs now being made. It's interesting to note that this idea isn't really a modern day innovation. World record holder Louis Spray designed, briefly marketed, and caught his 69-pound 11-ounce record-setter on a quick-set rig. Spray called it the "Sure-Fire" Minnow Harness. Another off-branch of the fall sucker method to develop, more than 40 years ago, was shore fishing with suckers. Originated by guides as a means of allowing their clients an opportunity to continue fishing during lunch breaks, shore fishing as its own method began to be practiced during the inclement weather periods at first; but then (more recently) by people who have
boat rigs which were too heavy to be effectively rowed along specific structures. In those instances, anglers typically put out the maximum allowable rods per person along a section of shoreline which usually has a rapid drop-off into some of the deeper areas of the main lake basins or channel areas. They often commit themselves to just one area per day and attend to their rods to wait for a strike, at which time they hop into a boat with their rod and proceed to follow the musky in the traditional manner - waiting until the musky swallows the sucker before they set the hook. Shore fishing is a very effective method for those who have the patience to wait it out. But sadly, some individuals have been abusing this method. Going well beyond the obvious intent of the law, they commonly set up a "trap line" of sucker rigs often with some rods set nearly a half-mile out in various directions from where the individuals are actually encamped. Needing a pair of binoculars to see many of their rod sets, these "sportsmen" have been treading on uncertain and, perhaps, unethical ground. And shore fishing is almost always done with single hook sucker rigs in order to maximize the efficiency of the method. If it proves that single hook rigs are indeed killing an alarming percentage of Muskies, then at what cost are these so-called sportsmen profiteering off the resources? Perhaps it is time the Wisconsin DNR rectifies this rapidly growing problem by better defining unattended-line laws and to follow the lead of Minnesota, which has on its books a distance requirement of 150 feet to define a rod as being legally attended. QUICK-SET RIGS
Many musky fishermen who use suckers have switched from single hook rigs to quick-set rigs for a variety of reasons. Some fishermen believe that quick-set rigs have an advantage over single hook rigs because there is no need to wait as long as an hour for the musky to swallow the sucker. Another advantage that many quick-set users cite is that they are far safer for the Muskies. Based upon our findings, thus far, this does indeed seem to be the case. In fact, based upon the findings of the CFMS-Y1, the Muskies that were caught on quick-sets exhibited no evidence of any trauma at all! In comparison, every artificial lure type used in the CFMS-Y1 inflicted at least some sort of visible injury to the Muskies in at least one instance. By using the term "visible injuries" we are referring to bleeding or ripped gills, hooks in eyes, hooks in the body of the musky, etc. Of the artificial lures used for the CFMSY1, jerkbaits led the way with the highest rate of visible injury. Bucktails recorded the lowest rate of visible injuries of artificials. And, quick-sets recorded no visible injuries. It should be noted, however, that unless an angler uses the standard quick-set rig properly, a musky could swallow the rig. A swallowed treble hook would mean a likely fatal injury to the musky. There are at least a dozen different types of quick-sets on the market. Most follow the same design in that they feature a single nose hook and a treble hook for placement along the side of the sucker. MUSKIES CAUGHT ANNUALLY ON SINGLE HOOK RIGS While researching this article, we conducted an informal survey of the owners of bait and tackle shops, who estimated that of those who fish for Muskies with suckers, approximately 25 to 33 percent use single hook rigs. In addition, it has been estimated that 15 to 20 percent of all Musky fishermen will use some form of live minnow bait, such as a sucker, at some point during the
season. Chippewa Flowage Musky charts reveal that approximately 100 legal size Muskies are caught on single hooks each year. Across Wisconsin, it is estimated that 1,000 to 2,000 legal size Muskies are caught each year on single hook rigs. Consider the potential total number of Muskies that are caught on single hook rigs each year throughout all of Musky country and the numbers become mind boggling. Keep in mind that the vast majority of these Muskies are being released under the assumption they will live to fight another day. Will these Muskies survive? If this study finds that a large percentage of these Muskies are dying then we could have a major deprivation of the fishery staring us in the face. If, on the other hand, this study discovers that the single hook rig is not having a significant negative impact, then we will be the wiser for the experience. SINGLE HOOK FINDINGS FROM CFMS-Y1 Of the 47 Muskies involved in the CFMS-Y1, nine were caught and released using single hook sucker rigs. All were throat or gut-hooked during the fall of 1998. Of the nine, four had died by the end of May 1999. One was caught in an otter trap and autopsies revealed that the other three had died as a result of injuries sustained from the single hooks. Another specimen, a 35-inch male, was caught on a jerkbait during the summer of 1998 and implanted with a radio transmitter. In the process, it was hooked in the eye and gills, and was severely stressed and bleeding from the ordeal, but survived. It was tracked successfully throughout the rest of the open water season. However, in mid-May of 1999, it was found dead along shore. A single hook rig was discovered to be the cause of its demise.
One of the Muskies caught for the study on a single hook rig was found dead along shore after the 1999 spawning season. An autopsy revealed the cause of death to be from the 14/0 single hook that passed through its stomach lining into its rib cage. The stomach was empty except for the giant hook and the musky was much thinner than average. It has long been believed that fluids in a Musky's stomach would dissolve the hook with time. After removing the large hook from this deceased musky, a minor amount of pressure was applied by hand to the giant hook and it snapped! Luckily the video camera was running to record the event. The giant hook was obviously greatly weakened, but not quickly enough to save the musky. All of the CFMS-Y1 Muskies under 40 1/2 inches that were caught on single hook rigs have died. The remaining five, all over 41 inches, continued to live into the following fishing season of 1999, until their transmitters lost battery life. The status of these Muskies could not be determined after this time. For non-biologists, it may be tempting to take the position that three or four dead Muskies out of nine is proof enough. But, keep in mind, a sample is needed that is sufficiently large enough so that the scientific community, as well as laymen, will have confidence in it. Without the support of the scientific community, any findings as to the mortality of Muskies caught on single hook rigs will lack credibility. Additionally, without a large enough sample, groups in this debate could point to the small sampling from the CFMS-Y1 in an attempt to discredit the study's findings. With that in mind - and with the guidance of several fisheries biologists - a greater sized study group of Muskies was determined as appropriate for additional radio-tagging.
GOALS & OBJECTIVES OF CFMS-Y2 The goal of the study team is to radio-tag a total of 20 Muskies for the CFMS-Y2 during the fall fishing season of 1999 and the spring phase of the 2000 musky season. All of the Muskies of the CFMS-Y2 will be caught using single-hooked suckers and only Muskies that are hooked in the throat or deeper will be included in the study and fitted with a radio-tag. The radio-tags attach to the musky just beneath the dorsal fin. The hooks that are being used will range from the round type to the square variety, in sizes ranging from 10/0 to 14/0, and will vary in makeup from bronze-color steel to stainless steel. The leader material includes nylon/plastic-coated steel and the standard non-coated leader. The Muskies that will be radio-tagged will range from undersized and up. (The legal size limit on the Chippewa Flowage is 34 inches.) An attempt will be made to utilize equal numbers of males and females for the study. The Muskies of the CFMS-Y2 were not tracked until after the closing of the 1999 musky fishing season. NEW RADIO TELEMETRY TAGS The CFMS-Y1 utilized the most technologically advanced external radio tags available during the spring of 1998. The CFMS-Y1 radio-tags lasted an average of nine months. This nine-month life span more than met the objectives of the study's first year. But, for the CFMS-Y2, it was apparent that a ninemonth tag would not meet the objectives. After much urging from the CFMS-Y2 team, the radio-tag manufacturer developed a longer-lasting, state-of-the-art tag that is guaranteed to last 400 days, and most likely 600 days. This new type of radio-tag exceeds the requirements of the CFMS-Y2 and allows the door
to be opened for the gathering of additional data on the Muskies that survive the single hook mortality phase of the CFMS-Y2. For instance, there is much to be learned regarding the spawning habits of these study Muskies. CFMS-Y2 FINDINGS TO DATE To date, 13 Muskies have been radio-tagged as part of the CFMS-Y2. The sizes ranged from 33 inches to one nearing the 30 pound class. Of the 13 Muskies that have been caught and released as of this writing in early December, three had expired as a result of injuries sustained due to the single hook rigs. The details concerning each of the expired Muskies are as follows: The first to expire was the smallest musky in the study - a 33inch male, caught in mid-October of 1999. The musky hit and swallowed a 12-inch sucker. The hook used was a 10/0, squared steel hook of bronze color finish. The leader material was nylon coated 60-pound test wrapped wire. The musky was hooked in the stomach. The leader was snipped and the musky was implanted with a radio transmitter and released. Though it swam off quickly and with strength during the release, the musky was discovered about four weeks later, after it had died and washed up on shore about a mile north of where it had been originally caught. The second musky to expire was a 46 1/2-inch female, caught in late October on a 21-inch long sucker. A 13/0, squared, bronzecolored steel hook was utilized. The leader material was 60pound non-coated wrapped wire. The musky was deeply hooked in the throat and only the upper tip of the shank was visible upon examination. It was fitted with a radio transmitter and released in a shallow water area. It remained near the boat after its release but died within about 10 minutes. An autopsy revealed the cause
of death was injuries sustained to vital organs as a result of trauma caused by the single hook. The third musky to expire was a 41 1/2-inch female, caught in November on a 16-inch sucker. A 10/0, squared, bronze-colored, steel hook was used. The leader material was nylon-coated, 60pound test, wrapped wire. The musky was hooked in the stomach and no part of the hook was visible. The wire was snipped and the musky was released in shallow water. Although the musky swam off exhibiting a great deal of strength and speed, it was found the very next day dead along the shore. An autopsy revealed that the hook had passed through the stomach lining and penetrated the rib cage. The result was that the musky died from internal bleeding as evidenced by the large quantity of blood in its stomach cavity. The remaining 10 sucker-caught Muskies are believed to still be alive (at this writing). Some may take the position that three dead fish is evidence enough to seek legislation against single hook rigs. However, others - especially those in the scientific community and those who support the use of single hook rigs - could make the claim that the three that have expired may have died as a result of a combination of factors that may or may not have been related to the single hook rigs. However, special care was taken to not cause unusual additional stress to the study Muskies. Of the three Muskies which did perish, none of them fought in an abnormally excessive manner nor did they experience any excessive handling during the transmitter implantation process. So, in the cases of these three Muskies, as evidenced by the autopsies, it's clear that the hook itself was the cause of death.
We have been cautioned against making a scientifically based pronouncement here, and we are not doing that; rather, we feel it necessary to inform our fellow musky anglers of the results to date. In the meantime, until the final results are announced, it may be wise to err on the side of caution and avoid the use of single hook rigs. EVIDENCE OF LONG TERM CONDITIONING? One of the most frequently asked questions about the study throughout the past year was whether there was any evidence that the conditioning observed during the first year (as a result of the catch and release experience) is long term. While the monel tagging program that was conducted by Chippewa Flowage musky guides from 1979-1986 indicated that the likelihood of recapture diminished with each catch and release experience, Further evidence was needed as to the cause of the diminished recapture rates. The radio-tagging of the Muskies from the first year of the 1998 CFMS provided that opportunity. To recap – only 6 of the 47 Muskies within the CFMS-Y1 were recaptured during the first year. In 1999, only 3 of the original 47 were reported being recaptured and none of the six Muskies that were recaptured in 1998 were known to have been recaptured during the 1999 season. The majority may have learned to avoid recapture. Another potential indicator of long-term conditioning may have been observed during the CFMS-Y2. On several occasions, after a musky had hit a sucker and while we were awaiting the usual 3 minute period allotted for the swallowing of a sucker by a musky, we were able to manipulate the movements and directions of the musky. For example, on one occasion, a musky hit a sucker on the bottom in 22 feet of water in an area that featured 3 major
snags. As the musky mouthed the sucker it remained on the bottom but began to head for the snags. In an experimental effort to head off the Musky's movement into the first snag, we positioned the boat between the musky and the snag. By switching the trolling motor on we were able to manipulate the movement of the musky away from the snag. Coincidence? Within a few minutes after the first snag experience, the Musky headed for the second snag in slightly deeper water of 24 feet. Again, we positioned the boat between the musky and the snag and intermittently engaged the trolling motor. When the trolling motor was engaged, the musky moved away. When we turned the trolling motor off, the musky again made a move toward the snag. This cat-and-mouse game continued for two to three minutes with the Musky trying to get to the snag, but each time it backed off when the trolling motor was engaged. On its final attempt to move into snag No.2, we disengaged the trolling motor and waited for the musky to again make a move toward the snag. When it did, we stomped on the bottom of the boat and the musky immediately took off on a run of approximately 100 feet away from the boat and snag! The musky settled down after several more minutes and made a move for the third snag in 25 feet of water. Again, we were able to manipulate the Musky's movements - this time, instead of stomping, we rattled rods against the side of the boat. In response to the rattling, the musky immediately made a run of about 80 feet away from the boat and snag. A few minutes later, the hook was set and the 30-pound class musky was soon in the net.
We attempted this experiment with the last seven Muskies that hit suckers. All of these Muskies were located on the bottom in water from 18 to 28 feet deep. Of the seven Muskies, one musky dropped the sucker in response; four others were easily manipulated but were caught; and two Muskies exhibited no noticeable response to the trolling motor and stomping. It is interesting to note that the two Muskies which did not exhibit any response to our trolling motor or stomping noise turned out to be smaller, possibly inexperienced Muskies. Although our experiment was limited in scope, we began to get excited if a Musky responded to our actions because, in such cases, we had the feeling that we were dealing with experienced Muskies. And, when we talk of experienced Muskies we are usually talking about the older, larger variety. Are the Musky's responses to this experiment the result of conditioning from catch and release experiences? Could it even be possible that larger Muskies are more sensitive to noise? Whatever the reason, it seems a wise strategy to adopt a stealthlike presence. After all, if Muskies are responding negatively to noise when in water 18 feet and deeper, how do you think they respond to noise when they are in the shallows? FOOD FOR THOUGHT The intent of CFMS-Y2 is to determine the survivability of Muskies that have swallowed single hook rigs. The data that is gathered will be used to inform and educate our fellow musky anglers. It is not our intent to outlaw the use of live bait or suckers or any other method. Regulations may be the final outcome, but accurate information and education should precede any attempts to regulate.
It is our hope that in the event this study determines that single hook rigs are indeed 'kill rigs," then we as Musky fishermen can be responsible enough to regulate ourselves through education and peer pressure. Education and peer pressure brought us catch and release. In addition, consider the musky spike - it was never outlawed, but peer pressure rendered it extinct. Could we self-regulate if single hook rigs are deemed to be "kill rigs"? We hope so. Because, once we begin to go down the path of outlawing some forms of musky fishing through regulations, it can start a very dangerous ball rolling. What method will then be next? Trolling? Jerkbaits? Where would it stop? We could regulate ourselves right out of a sport. Before we make a move to outlaw any method, we should all very carefully consider the potential implications for the future of musky fishing. Prior to initiating this single hook rig mortality study, we discussed these very same questions at length among ourselves. I wish we could say that we had the answers. It is our hope that, through the information produced from this study, musky fishermen will be able to make rational, informed decisions to address these issues and to educate others on the ultimate effects of single hook rigs, whatever that outcome presents itself to be.
QuickStrike Rigs... Good For Anglers & Better For Musky By John Myhre © 2011 For many years the use of live baits such as very large suckers has been an accepted method for fall Musky. Along with this tradition came the idea that Muskies caught with live bait should be killed, since they were most often "gut hooked". The catch and release concept has made a real improvement in our Musky fisheries over the past few decades, and the technology in quickstrike (QS) rigging live-bait is totally compatible with this line of thinking. Quickstrike rigs allow for an immediate hook set with near 100% hookups. Most live-baiting for Muskies is done in the cold water periods of the year when a Musky's metabolism is slowed way down. Since Muskies are almost always mouth hooked on a QS rig they are able to be released. Live bait fishing with QS rigs can add a whole new dimension to your Musky angling, especially during the cold water periods when fishing gets extra tough. Sucker harnesses and other types of live bait rigs have been around for many years. QS rigs, a generic name, are the new generation of these live bait rigs. Things like finer wire, smaller hooks, and perfect hook placement in the bait make these rigs very productive.
MATCH THE HOOKS TO THE BAIT SIZE For many years the consensus was that one should use as large a hook as possible for Muskies, but in actual fact the bigger the hook, the harder it is to drive home into a Musky's bony jaw. Smaller hooks set much easier. When rigging, use treble hooks that are just big enough to have exposed hook points after being rigged on a sucker minnow. Here is a list of treble hook sizes for corresponding bait lengths. BAIT SIZE Hook SIZE 8" - 10" #l or #2 11" - 15" #1/O or #2/0 16" - 18" #3/O or #4/0 My personal preference is for 12" to 14" size suckers. The huge size, 18" and over suckers usually don't work very well with quick strike rigs because their body is too thick to get good hook exposure and they are so strong that they often tear the hooks out of themselves. When using the smaller sized hooks I always use heavy duty models to prevent straightening or crushing. Remember needle-sharp hooks are a must, so always sharpen them.
RIGGING FOR 100% HOOKUP Hook placement in the bait will make the difference in hooking percentages. I have found that a sucker hooked through the nose with one hook, the traditional method, will get 50% of the fish that strike. The other 50% wind up getting no hooks and just letting go of your sucker. In order to get good hookups, the hooks must be positioned properly and move in the Musky's mouth to penetrate. Hooks just don't tear out of a sucker's nose that easily. When I started hooking the front hook through the soft flesh on the cheek of the sucker so the hook could easily tear free, my hookup percentages jumped incredibly. The best placement for the rear hook seems to be low on the side just behind the dorsal fin. This usually puts the hook in a good position to nail 'em. QUICKSTRIKE RIG CONSTRUCTION The basic rig construction consists of a 24-inch length of uncoated bronze stranded wire, 20 to 50 lb. test, a heavy duty rear treble hook, and a smaller front treble or optional single front hook. The front hook should contain shrinkable tubing around the shank so it will slide on the wire making it adjustable. A strong black swivel should be attached on the opposite end of the whole
rig. An optional small spinner blade should be added in front of the front hook making it legal for use in states where a multiple hook rig is illegal. The whole thing can be assembled by using either crimp-on sleeves or twisting the wire to make a good connection. You can easily make your own rigs or they can be purchased from most Musky tackle outlets. PRESENTATION TIPS When fishing with quickstrike rigs it is often better to freeline the suckers instead of using bobbers. Use a 1/2 to 1 ounce sinker on the line just ahead of the swivel. The additional weight will keep the bait in the productive zone nearly all of the time. In the fall, work your suckers over the deeper areas that have stumps, logs, cribs, and or rocks. When fishing on clear natural lakes, concentrate on bars and areas of shoreline that have sharp breaks into deep water with cover and bait-fish present. When a Musky picks up your sucker, try to get directly over it right away and set the hook very hard. So, there you have it. Some new twists to an old idea that may help you to boat a few more fish. The next time you're going to fish live bait for Muskies, try a quick strike rig. They're the answer to many problems associated with live bait angling, and most importantly, they rarely damage the Musky.
Dead Fish Swimming!!! By: Craig Sandell © 2015 As in past seasons, folks are again trying to discredit the Chippewa Flowage Musky Study on single hook mortality. Did they participate? Did they contribute? What is their motivation for condemning a study that seeks only to provide more information about the Muskie we all love to hunt…frankly, I don’t know and I don’t care. I also think that it does our sport and our fisheries no service to have print publications for Musky and Pike continue to 'make believe' that sucker fishing, whether employing a 'J' hook or a 'Circle Hook', does little or no harm to the Muskie. Surely, articles posted on MHM attempt to cast doubt on competent catch and recapture studies by attempting to frame the studies without 'independent peer review' as less than accurate...That is just 'Mule Muffins'. There are NO recognized independent and unbiased peer review authorities qualified to make Musky study pronouncements. MHM is following the Chinese model of information dissemination; "If you tell a lie loud enough over and over again, people will take it as fact". Here is something to consider: Take a sharp hook and attach it to a 40 pound test fishing line. Now, swallow the hook and give the end of the line to a fisherman friend. Walk away from the friend until the line is taunt. Now, signal your friend to pull as hard as he can on the line
attached to the hook that is now in your stomach while you run as fast as you can away from your friend. What do you think will happen? Will the hook puncture your stomach?…A good possibility. If not your stomach, will it snag something in your throat… A good possibility. Now, with the hook snagged in your throat or stomach, tell your friend to just cut the line. Now that your throat or stomach has been severely injured, DO NOT seek any medical attention. Try to carry on with your life as though nothing had happened and see how long you will live and see what quality of life you will have. Surely, Muskie are not people…but they are still animals with the same basic body functions that we have. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist or peer review to noodle the conclusion that the puncturing of an animal’s throat or stomach with a sharp pointed object cannot be a blessing for the animal. Forget the studies! Forget the ‘would be’ experts and nay Sayers. Rely upon your own common sense. If you are using a single hook sucker rig to catch Muskie (Standard or Circle), then you ARE hooking or damaging the stomach or throat of the fish. When you release that Muskie you condemn it to a slow and uncomfortable death. Sure, you can say you released the fish and thump your chest about how you practice "Catch & Release" but in your heart you know that that Muskie is just a "dead fish swimming". Tight Lines
Multi-Rod Approach For Musky By Craig Sandell © 2010 Why do Muskie anglers use more than one rod? There are many reasons but the main reason relates directly to the lures we use. If you have fished for Muskie for a couple of years, you have accumulated a few different lures…you undoubtedly have bucktails, crankbaits, jerkbaits and perhaps surface baits. Each of the lures come in different sizes and weights and each requires a different presentation technique. The difference in the lures dictates different rod, reel and line selections in order to accommodate the different demands upon lure presentations. This article will try to set some general guidelines for line, rod and reel selection for each of lure types. First, however, we need to discuss rod loading. What the heck is a rod loading? Rod loading refers to the transfer of the casting momentum from your arm to the rod and from the rod to the lure. The stiffness of the rod, the flexibility of the rod tip and the weight of the line and the lure will all have an effect upon the loading of the rod. A good match of rod weight, line weight and lure weight combined with a good casting technique, will result in the maximum transfer of casting momentum from your arm to the lure…resulting in good casting distance and lure placement control.
For example; if you have a heavy weight rod with a "broom stick" backbone without a flexible rod tip and you are using a bait casting reel loaded with 40 pound micron line, you are not going to get much casting efficiency or control if you try to cast a ½ ounce bucktail. Conversely, if you have a light weight rod with a flexible rod tip and a reel loaded with 50 pound TUF line, you are going to have a problem trying to cast a 3½ ounce jerkbait. In the first instance the rod will not transfer your casting momentum and in the second instance the rod will ‘overload’ and negate casting momentum and lure placement control. You can begin to see that your tackle configuration is directly related to your casting and presentation success. As a visual example of rod loading, the seven pictures shown below will provide some perspective. (The pictures are courtesy of John Dettloff from his book Top Water Tactics and Tales.)
Armed with a perspective of rod loading, lets discuss the approach to different lure types: Bucktails In very general terms, the bucktail is a lightweight lure with a very uncomplicated presentation…You cast it out and reel it in. The rod you use should be at least 6½ or 7 feet in length. Because you are not casting a heavy lure, the rod should be on the "light weight" side with a medium backbone for a good hook set and a flexible rod tip for maximum rod loading. The 6½ or 7 foot rod length in a nominal length. With it you can get a good loading of the rod and good casting control. A longer rod may work better for a boat side figure 8 but you have to be
careful not to overload the rod with a heavy bucktail like the large Eagletail or Cowgirl. Suggestion: Layout all of the bucktails in which you have confidence. Get the rod that you have designated as your bucktail rod. Get the reel that you want to use (at least a 4.7:1 ratio) and load it with the line of your choice. Cast each of your bucktails with the rod/reel combination to be sure that the lure casts well and that you are able to accurately place the lure where you want it to be…Remember that you want to fight the Musky not the rod. Crank/Twitch/Jerk Baits Traditionally, these types of lures are usually used with a heavier weight of rod and heavier line. With the advent of spectra line, heavier line is less used than in the past and therefore a more streamlined rod can be used. As with the bucktail rod, 6½ or 7 feet is a good nominal length but the rod should be a medium weight rod. The heavier weight rod will make it easier to handle the action of a crankbait. The real consideration here is the weight of the lure. This type of nominal rod setup will support most medium sized crankbaits and jerkbaits. If you are tossing heavier lures, like the Bull Dawg, you will need to setup a heavier rod with line that has a tensile strength of 80 pound spectra or 40 pound braided micron. Suggestion: As with the bucktails, layout all of the crank/twitch/jerk baits in which you have confidence and cast each using the rod and reel you have chosen. Make sure that the rod does not under or overload and test your casts for accuracy. Ensure that the lure action during retrieve meets you expectation.
Surface Lures These lures tend to run a bit heavier than a bucktail and a bit lighter than a crank/twitch/jerk bait. With today’s spectra lines, you can probably use a rod of medium weight and backbone with a flexible tip. I would recommend the use of a reel with a 6.3:1 retrieve speed. This will provide you the flexibility to easily vary the action of the lure during the retrieve. The length can also be 6½ or 7 feet. Suggestion: As with the other two types of lures, layout the lures in which you have confidence and cast each to be sure that you are getting the action you expect and the accuracy you require. In Summary I have tried to give you some general guidelines for rod/reel/lure configuration. I recognize that the nominal approaches discussed may not be effective using very light or very heavy lures. You will have to experiment with some different configurations to discover which will most compliment your fishing approach. Talk to other Musky anglers and ask them how they deal with different lure and rod weights. As a closing consideration, remember that you are going to be on the water casting for a good part of each fishing day. Heavier rods are harder to cast for long periods, but lighter rods may not give you the control and hook set that you need. There is more to Musky fishing than just picking up any rod and reel and lure. Having a plan of attack and complimenting that attack with balanced tackle will increase your odds of success on the water. Tight Lines
Crankbaits To Consider Craig Sandell © 2010 Wiley Lures have a reputation for being some of the best straight and jointed crankbaits available to Musky anglers. Every Wiley Lure is individually water-tested on a rod and reel in a local pond to assure proper action, then resealed with clear coat so they are ready for serious Musky fishermen and women. The "Wiley" name is on every lure belly. If it’s not there, it’s not an original Wiley Lure.
What Price Muskie??? Craig Sandell © 2015 So you want to fish Muskie. Are you ready to pay the price? What price? The price to re-outfit your tackle to handle the most tenacious fresh water sport fish. That bass tackle you’ve got just doesn’t have the guts…so you will need to invest in some new tackle. Rods Lets start with rods. You are going to need at least two rods. One should have medium action for casting bucktails and crank baits. The other should have some good back bone to allow you to cast the heavier surface lures and jerk baits that are commonly used for Muskie fishing. Both rods should be at least 6½ feet with fore grip and an 18 inch handle. I have my rods made for me. I have always been disappointed by rods "Off-The-Rack". My custom made rods cost me $195.00 each and I will use this figure as part of the ‘cost-to-Muskie-fish’ calculation…you may find something you like for less. (Two rods times $195.00 = $390.00) Two Rods = $390.00 Reels
You are going to need bait casting reels. The reason for this is because of the tactics associated with Muskie fishing as much as with the Muskie itself. Part of the formula for good Muskie fishing is being able to cast with reasonable precision. You will want to place a lure precisely along weed lines and in heavy wood. In order to do that consistently, you will discover the need to control the line as your lure strips it from the reel. This is accomplished by a method called thumbing. That is…using your thumb to apply pressure to the line as your eye gauges the trajectory of the lure in relationship to the casting target. Also, Muskie have a habit of following a lure up to the boat and striking as a figure eight is executed. Once again, thumbing is a required tactic. When a fish hits short (by the boat) you will need to give it some line so that it can’t use the boat as a banging stake to dislodge the lure. You will also need line to play the fish in order to be able to land it safely. Hitting the ‘free spool’ as you apply thumb pressure to the line will accomplish that goal. You can’t do that with a spinning reel. The main staple of the average Muskie angler is the Abu Garcia 5500, 5600, 6500 or 6600 models of reels. There are other reels from other manufacturers that will also do the job. You will need one for each of your two rods and you will need a backup reel just in case. The average price for these is around $140.00 each. (Three reels times $140.00 = $420.00) Our running total is $810.00 Line You are going to need some Muskie line. I am partial to 80 or 100 LB. TUF Line Spectra. You may have a different choice, however, consider that the line should be reasonably fray resistant, with low stretch, reasonably water proof, while
possessing good casting characteristics. For the purposes of this discussion, 600 yards of 80 lb. TUF Line is around $120.00. Our running total is $930.00
Tackle/Tools You are going to need a different tackle box to hold the larger lures. Typically, you can figure on a nominal cost of $30.00. You will need solid wire steel leaders. Figure $10.00 for a good assortment of quality leaders. You will need to get some tools for Muskie fishing as well. Foremost is a handheld compound bolt cutter…about $52.00. You will also need a hookout, hook sharpening file, long nose pliers, spilt ring pliers, long handled channel lock pliers, mouth spreaders, waterproof flashlight, heavy duty nail clippers for your line, and a small tool kit in which to keep them so that they don’t get mixed up with your lures in your tackle box. All together this will likely run you another $135.00. Our running total is $1157.00 Lures You are going to need a reasonable assortment of lures. Figure at least 5 bucktails, 5 variations of crank bait, 4 types of surface lure and 4 types of jerk bait. Around $400.00 ought to do it. Our running total is $1557.00 Miscellaneous Stuff
How to put a price tag on this? Everyone will end up with a different amount. Consider, however, the cost for extra hooks, split rings, impulse items you buy on a whim, some better rain gear, some better polarized sun glasses, a net large enough for Muskie, etc…As a budgetary number lets use $350.00. Our running total is $1,907.00 There you are…outfitted and ready and $1,907.00 poorer. Of course, you still have to pay for food, lodging, gas, oil, maybe boat rental, license and of course there is always the bar bill over and above your initial investment in equipment. Everyone says that Muskie fishing isn’t easy. You will spend long hours on the water. You will spend many hours casting. You will spend countless hours preparing your tackle and researching the Muskie. The operative word here is SPEND. As a Muskie angler, you will pay a high price in time, frustration and money to be able to successfully match yourself against this freshwater denizen of the deep. If this article has caused you to think twice about getting involved in Muskie angling…GOOD. It is only the angler that is dedicated enough to be willing to pay the price who will eventually succeed. Oh, yes. There is one other thing. LUCK!!!…For that there is no price tag.
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