New to Muskie

[biiigfish32]

I'am going to start musky fishing this year. I bought a nice rod, Im thinking of getting an Ambasider reel. Thats pretty much all I have for big Muskie. I have a bunch of pike stuff but nothing for muskies. I was wondering if any of you guys could tell me what all I need to start musky fishing Ex: line(type,strenght), nets, leaders... O and Im from around Grand Rapids so if anybody knows any good places that you could let me know about, I would like that alot.

[jasonvkop]

First thing I would do is become a member of this club if you haven't already. You will learn a TON from the member part of the forum. People are also a little more willing to help if you are a member. What kind of rod did you get? An abu 6500 or so is a pretty good all around reel. I would say 5.3:1 gear ratio is pretty good for most baits. Use 80-100lb superbraid like spiderwire stealth or powerpro. Make sure to get good leaders with good components. Most leaders you can get at gander or Dicks prolly aren't good enough for most serious anglers so I would ask around on other forums like muskiefirst.com. Stealth tackle makes some good fluoro leaders with quality components. Try to get a big net from beckman or frabil that has a treated bag as that is better for the fish. Look at the tips/info page for details on proper handling and releasing. http://www.michiganmuskiealliance.org/tips.php

[hemichemi]

Another great way to jump-start your effort is to bid on one or more of our guide-for-a-day auctions where our members donate time to help raise money for MMA's benefit; Jason just happens to be an accomplished muskie hunter, lives in your area, and is up on the block right now, among several others:

http://www.michiganmuskiealliance.org/f ... m.php?f=39

[biiigfish32]

I got a 6 foot 9, heavy action, (I think) 30-50 lbs test

[hemichemi]

I got a 6 foot 9, heavy action, (I think) 30-50 lbs test

I started (last year) with the same-ish rod, and quickly found it limiting in two important ways: 1) fighting fish (it's too short and stiff to provide the quick compliance needed to accomodate a big struggling fish without letting it get any slack in the line) and 2) performing figure-8s at boatside.

After learning the hard way, I find I'm very much happier with the two 8.5' rods I now rely on mostly for tossing my large heavy baits, along with a lighter 7.5' rod I use for light spinners and small cranks.

I also use 80-100# superbraid for most everything, since tossing heavy baits puts a lot of stress on the line and even that weight line isn't all that thick compared to mono. 100# Dyneema/Spectra is only about the same diameter as 20# mono. Also, learn how to tie a Palomar knot, which is widely regarded as the best for braided line.

Come to the meeting this Thursday and meet some of us. Anyone is welcome, even non-members.