Suggested Rules

 

 By: Walt Krause - Shawnee Muskie Hunters Chapter #28, Illinois and Larry Besant - Daniel Boone Chapter #52, Kentucky.

 

 

Buddy Hartman photo of Brett Olson's "Fire in the Eye" Tiger.

 

 

 

 

  • Have the proper tools with you: Long nose pliers, hook cutters and jaw spreaders.
  • Bring a large KNOTLESS net to safely land a muskie. They will destroy a salmon net & you will lose or harm the fish. Yes, they can be $$. Yes, they are a must.
  • Keep your hooks double sharp.
  • Don't try to save money on bargain lines, leaders and snaps.
  • Pay attention to what is going on around you.
  • Use bright lures on bright days and darker lures on darker days.
  • Don't waste too much time choosing and changing lures.
  • Learn to do a figure 8 or circle, well.
  • Keep your hand away from their mouth.
  • Remove the hooks while the muskie is in the net.
  • Don't keep the muskie out of the water,  any longer than you can hold your breath, under water.
  • Fish with as many muskie anglers as you can.

Safety:

These are big fish. And big lures. With BIG hooks. BE SAFE.

  • It doesn't happen often, but when it does, an accident can be appalling.
  • Use caution around the lures; don't get in a hurry.
  • If you have a fish on, be careful where your lure ends up; a lure in the net or cradle can became dangerous if the muskie starts flailing.
  • Wear sunglasses or protective eyeware.
  • Make sure you know your casting-back distance; be careful of others in the boat.
  • When snagged in a tree, use caution if trying to jerk free - it can come flying back in your face or others'.
  • Curious Dogs and lures to NOT mix.
  • When taking the protective plastic tubing off of new treble hooks, heat the plastic slightly with a hairdryer to make it easier to remove.
  • Once impaled into skin, NEVER try to pull a hook out if it is past the barb. You may have to push it all the way thru, then cut the hook.
  • Carry appropriate tools. If required, seek medical attention and get a tetanus booster. Some of our BEST anglers have had stitches. It only takes a second of inattention. And the Tiger is VERY fast with the head thrash.
  • Protect yourself, Protect others, Protect the Fish.
Razor sharp muskie teeth.