Muskie

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Muskie, often referred to as the "fish of 10,000 casts," are a highly sought-after species known for their size, strength, and thrilling strikes. Anglers in the Central/Mountain region of the United States have the opportunity to target muskie in a variety of bodies of water, including lakes and reservoirs. While the following bodies of water are popular for muskie fishing in this region, there are many other locations where these elusive predators can be found:
Colorado: Chatfield Reservoir, Gross Reservoir, Eleven Mile Reservoir.
Idaho: Priest Lake, Payette Lake, Coeur d'Alene Lake.
Utah: Pineview Reservoir, Yuba Reservoir, Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
Wyoming: Glendo Reservoir, Boysen Reservoir, Keyhole Reservoir.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Muskie are known for their affinity for structure and cover. They prefer habitats with ample vegetation, such as submerged weeds, cabbage beds, and lily pads, which provide hiding places for both muskie and their prey. Look for muskie near points, drop-offs, rock formations, fallen trees, and other submerged structures. They often position themselves near ambush points to strike unsuspecting prey.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, muskie become more active as the water temperatures rise. Look for them in shallow bays, near creek mouths, and along weed edges. Use large jerkbaits, bucktail spinners, and slow-moving retrieves to entice strikes from muskie. Focus your efforts around areas with warming water and where muskie can find prey fish.

SUMMER

In the summer, muskie seek cooler water and often move to deeper areas with structure and cover. Look for them near weed beds, drop-offs, submerged humps, and points. Topwater lures, such as large walk-the-dog baits or prop baits, can be effective during low-light conditions or when muskie are actively feeding near the surface. Otherwise, slow presentations with bucktail spinners, glide baits, or jerkbaits can trigger strikes.

FALL

As fall approaches, muskie go through a period of increased feeding activity, preparing for the winter months. Look for them near points, weed beds, and along transition areas. Large crankbaits, jerkbaits, and swimbaits can be effective in imitating the movements of injured baitfish. Vary your retrieval speeds and experiment with different lure colors to determine what triggers muskie to strike.

WINTER

During the winter months, muskie become less active but can still be caught. They tend to move to deeper water and may seek out areas with thermal pockets or near underwater structure. Vertical jigging with large soft plastics or using live bait, such as suckers or large shiners, can be effective in enticing sluggish muskie during this time. Fish at a slow pace and focus your efforts near potential holding areas.

Muskie are apex predators and will strike a variety of large baits and lures. Effective bait options for muskie fishing include large jerkbaits, bucktail spinners, crankbaits, glide baits, swimbaits, and topwater lures. Experiment with different colors, sizes, and retrieval speeds to find the most enticing presentation. When using live bait, choose large sucker minnows or shiners rigged on heavy-duty tackle with appropriate hooks and leader material.