MUSKIE TROLLING

Question
Hi, I was wondering which design of crank-bait is best for trolling for muskie , in about 18 feet of water . One piece or jointed and why ? Would you use 50# flourocarbon line for a leader instead of wire . Thanks ...

Answer
Greetings,

I hate say it but both the jointed and straight crankbaits are very good for trolling. Each body of water is different. I would pull both and let the fish tell you what they want. I have found in trolling that Saturday one certain bait in a certain color is all that works, then on Sunday it doesn't and a different one catches all the fish. Some of my favorites are Rapala's Super Shad, Grandma's 7.5", a new basement bait called the Sewer Lure, Jointed 8" Believers and Depthraiders.

I will never use flouro for a leader casting or trolling. I will not take any chance at a bit off and I know a few guys who have been. I don't ever want to be in the position where I am the reason for leaving a musky to die with a bait stuck in it's mouth. I just use straight American Fishing Wire with no snap just a heavy split ring like the Buchers.