St. Lawrence River Fishing: Tackle & Rigging Guide for Pike, Muskie & More

Question
Hi, on monday i am fishing the st lawrence river for a few days for the first time, i would like to know what to use for pike, muskie, salmon, rainbows and walleye, i will be fishing from shore and from a small aluminum boat i would also like to know how my lines should be rigged with whatever baits you recommend , ( I will be fishing near the st lawrence river mouth on the lake ontario end )

Thanks, jaden.

Answer
Hi Jaden,

I don't know the St. Lawrence specifically, but I do know those species on the great lakes.  For Trout, Salmon, Pike, and Walleyes, I'd stick with 8 to 10 pound line.  I'd have a selection of baitfish crankbaits like deep Thunderstick Jrs, Rapala Shad Raps (sizes 7-9), X-Raps.  Then some spoons like 2/5th Cleos, 1/2 Krocodives, and #1 and #2 Mepps Syclops.  Some spinners like #4 Mepps catch everything too.  Plastic swim baits like Storms Wildeyes are very good for all species too.  

For Muskies and big Pike you will want to go up to 25-30 pound line and some bigger lures.  Deep crankbaits like Bucher Depth Raiders are good.  Big Rapalas like #18 Floating, or the Super Shad Rap are very good.  A big spinner like a Mepps Musky Killer is good for Muskies and Pike almost anywhere.  

Always check the local tackle shops to find out whats been hot.

Good luck, that is a great fishery.

Marc