This past weekend while on Lake of the Woods, weed bed action was steady.
Crank baits produced several bass and walleye.
The key was lindy rigging just outside the weed beds. Several walleye in the 22 to 25 inch range were taken. As a bonus some smallies in the four-pound range were boated.
Muskies are still relating to rock piles. In one hour of fishing two muskie and two big pike were produced.
The 52-inch muskie hit a crazy crippler speed-trolled at 7.4 k.p.h. This baby tail-danced twice and cleared the water once by three feet. The fellas fishing walleye in the small Lund were amazed at such a sight.
The 43-inch muskie was taken on a Bull Dawg Cisco pattern while trolling. Casting produced several fellows and two big pike. Any day you get a 22 and 26 pound pike is a great day. The two muskies were a bonus. This was my first larger than 50-inches long this year. The muskie count is now at 15 for the year. Not a bad start for so early in the year.
Gear for big fish is important. The Fenwick AV heavy action is the best big rod I have used. This seven-foot beauty allows for excellent control and when in action the soft tip gives great range when casting. The long cork handle can be tucked under your arm giving you greater control over your bait in key situations.
The backbone on hook sets are second to none and can easily handle a 50-inch fish. My reel of choice is a Corsair 400 by Shimano. The line capacity is huge and large enough to handle the 80 pound super stealth line. The drag is smooth and this reel performs under tough situation.
Abu-Garcia 6500 is also a top-notch reel. With the new digital line counter it throws a whole new twist to trolling. You always know how much line you have out and can concentrate on presenting your bait in the strike zone.
Many anglers use this reel for big lake trout. That's the thing -- a muskie outfit can be used quite effectively for lakers as well as pike. Too many people go out with improper equipment and end up blowing up their rod or missing a fish of a lifetime.
Equipment is key, don't short change yourself. Talk to your local tackle shop expert and get set up properly. The big fish season is upon us -- use your time effectively to produce trophies.
UPDATE:
Lake of the Woods -- Walleye action is steady, but all the changes in weather have resulted in a soft bite.
Falcon -- Bass and walleye action is medium to good. Top water continues to produce some big bass. Jordan Mirecki caught several more than 18-inches on a skitter pop.
Lake of the Prairies -- Reports of walleye action on a bottom bouncer and a spinner. Some huge pike as well.
Assiniboine -- Sturgeon have been caught by the Osborne Bridge. I couldn't believe it but I have the picture of the lucky angler.
Crow Duck -- Two words: "On Fire." Great fishing for walleye and bass.
Clear Lake -- Some big walleye and pike being taken. Troll rock piles with shallow running big cranks. Pike are in the weed beds.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Look for loons. They feed on baitfish and are usually around reefs. Baitfish presence means predator -- prey, walleyes, pike and muskie follow the forage.
Till next week, keep your lines tight!