Mid June through mid July as well as mid September through October provide the most consistent action on our inland waters. However, the dog days of summer can provide an equally hot bite on the St. Louis River system and Superior/Duluth Harbor.
In 1949, Louis Spray caught the fish in Hayward, Wisconsin that is still recognized as the World Record musky, and musky nuts have been paying pilgrimage ever since. Whether it’s the fish of 1,000, 2,000, or 10,000 casts; muskies definitely present the supreme challenge to any angler looking to hunt for the ultimate predator that swims in our waters. Hunting for Big Toothy is definitely not for the faint of heart, and those willing to put in the time and effort can be rewarded with one of the most exhilarating experiences in fishing. Although other parts of the country have developed outstanding musky fisheries, the Hayward area lakes continue to produce numbers and trophies that support its reputation as the “Musky Capitol of the World”. Mid June through mid July as well as mid September through October provide the most consistent action on our inland waters. However, the dog days of summer can provide an equally hot bite on the St. Louis River system and Superior/Duluth Harbor.
Despite the well deserved attention that muskies attract in our region of the country, northern pike, particularly large northern pike, still have a special place in my heart. Each season we land several fish that are true trophies. Fish in the 15 to 25 pound class are possible, many of which are caught while pursuing other species. Talk about a bonus fish! Pike of all sizes are generally cooperative throughout the season. The true giants are generally caught early and late in the season. Some of my customers have experienced the fall feeding frenzy that occurs in late September through mid October that is truly amazing. Fall doesn't mark the end to our Pike fishing however as big fish on our inland lakes and Chequamegon Bay can be caught through the ice consistently during the winter months. Late ice provides an excellent opportunity at exceptionally large fish that are aggressively feeding before their spawning migration.