First time

[PikeKing]

Hi guys. Im heading to West Battle lake in september to fish for muskie for the first time. Ive done alot of Pike fishing so im familiar with most of what ill need. Just a couple questions.

What # test do you recommend?

What type of lures work best in the fall?

Whats a good trolling speed? (Plan on casting and trolling)

Id really appreciate any responses. Thanks.

Tom

[propster]

I see you didn't get any response so I will try to help you. I was just visiting the site for the first time in about a week. I would recommend a super braid line either 65# or 80#, such as Spider Wire Stealth, Power Pro, or Tuff Line. In the fall, popular lures include jerkbaits such as Reef Hawgs, Suicks, Mantas, and the last few years especially Bulldawgs. I have had great luck as summer goes to fall with falling water temps from low 70s/upper 60s down to upper 50s (which should happen in Sept), with throwing topwaters, both prop baits and walk the dog style, such as Docs, Jackpots, etc. Trolling comes more into play in October, when they aren't necessarily as shallow as they used to be and aren't related quite as tightly to structure, or especially after weeds have died off. Troll the steep breaking shorelines, points, and especially walls, and also open water over deep water, especially if you can see pods of baitfish (often ciscos if present). Try trolling anywhere from 2 - 4 mph, see what the fish want (more a function of how deep your bait went) with lures like Believers and Jakes, or Ernies for deeper running. Hope this helps. Good luck.

[PikeKing]

Thanks propster. Great info, really appreciate it.