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Northern Ontario Muskies
The names of the lakes are legend: Lake of the Woods, Eagle, Rowan, Wabigoon. Mention these names to any muskie fanatic and watch their reaction. Lots of muskies, big muskies, and maybe even a world record muskie! And let's not forget the incredible scenery of these Canadian Shield Lakes. Pine studded islands and granite cliffs make for an aesthetically pleasing experience. Many first time muskie fishermen from the states are not only awestruck by the scenery, but also by the amount of water. So many spots to fish! How does one know where to go and what to do? Some planning will definitely help. It is essential to talk to the resort or lodge owner ahead of time to get some information on where and how to fish the lake that you will be on. Perhaps they can make recommendations on a local expert to contact for information, to start when planning your Ontario Muskie trip.
NORTHERN ONTARIO MUSKIES METHODS
Finding muskies on Canadian Shield Lakes is somewhat different than on other bodies of water. Muskies will relate to weedbeds as they do in other bodies of water, but some of these lakes have weeds in abundance while other others have little weedgrowth. While any weedgrowth may hold fish, weeds in conjunction with other structure such as a rock bar may make the spot a hotspot. Some spots will have shallow, thick weedgrowth commonly referred to as slop weeds. Don't overlook these areas as big fish are often lurking there in just a few feet of water. Such weedgrowth is best fished with magnum style spinnerbaits such as an M&G's spinnerbait or topwater lures such as a Poe's Jackpot. Because weeds are fairly rare in most of these lakes, the weeds that are available will have muskies in them.
Most Canadian Shield lakes have an abundance of rock habitat that muskies will frequent. Points, reefs, islands, and narrows all will hold fish. The larger and more diversified structural areas will be the prime locations for fish. Areas with boulders offer more hiding spots for baitfish and are usually more productive than areas that have small rock or sheer rock walls. Areas out in the main lake, such as reefs may not hold as many fish, but are prime spots for trophy muskies. Reefs that come within a few feet of the surface are good spots to fish, but don't overlook reefs that top out in the 15-25 foot range. These reefs may have the fish of a lifetime using them. On these reefs, deep diving crankbaits like a Buchertail Depthraider or Cisco Kid work well. Weighted Jerkbaits such as a Wades Wobbler can also be fished over reefs with excellent results. On shallower spots such as shoreline points or island areas, a bucktail is hard to beat. Black with a silver blade works well in clear water, while fluorescent colors such as orange or chartreuse produce well in stained waters. Fish numbers of spots looking for active muskies. Most spots on these lakes are fairly small and can be fished with several casts. Covering lots of water is the most productive way to fish. As water temperatures drop in the fall, fish move to steep breaking shoreline areas. Sheer rock walls are a prime location. Trolling these walls tight to shore with deep running baits like Buchertail Depthraiders or Mania Ernie Baits may land you the trophy of a lifetime. Interesting scenery and big fish: that twosome makes for a great trip!
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