TECHNIQUE

Reading the Water/Structure

As mentioned, knowing the type of body of water that you are fishing is an important element in locating and catching a muskie. Reading the water when fishing a river or reading the structure when fishing a lake is a special skill that requires practice. As well, the body of water and the situation determine whether you cast or troll. If I am fishing an area that would be most efficiently fished by trolling, I do so until I find an area that would be better covered by casting. Although my personal preference is to cast, I never allow that to influence my decision as to presentation.

To help you with water environments, if possible get the best hydrographic charts you can. These maps of the lake's contours will save you a lot of time by allowing you to eliminate unproductive water at home, before you even set out for the lake. If you plan to fish an enormous lake, select a small area with several different types of structures and try to establish a pattern, then look for other similar structures. Above all, once you set your game plan, stick to it. It's very easy to get sidetracked when a lake offers so many potential fish-holding structures.

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