Author: Chris Huskilison
2021 Muskie Opener Pattern Predictions and Tackle Recommendations
It’s like Christmas Eve around the shop these days. We are a bunch of Muskie nuts here at Peterborough Pro Tackle. To say that “we have you covered” from a product and knowledge standpoint is an understatement!It has been another unseasonable spring with low water levels and crazy peaks and valleys as far a water temp is concerned. Not so different from the spring of 2020 though. And I think I’ve got a pretty good idea of what to expect come opening day.With water temps in the area still within the 60’s I firmly believe, based on personal observations and experience, that the majority of the fish will be taken either trolling or casting small to medium sized cranks OR via casting small cranks, swim baits and the ever so deadly Tube. While there may be the odd blade chaser, I firmly believe that these presentations will produce the best results. And don’t worry. We have everything you need!
LURE RECOMMENDATIONS
The Toothache
The Toothache Muskie/Pike crank bait is very unique. And quite possibly the perfect offering for trollers and casters alike come opener. The Body Length is 12.7 cm (5") the bait Weighs- 60.5 grams (approx 2oz) and dives to approx 15 ft deep, 100' out when trolled , and 7'-9‘when casting. These baits are custom painted in proven Kawartha patterns by me and come with hooks and split rings! I will definitely have one tied on this weekend.
Chaos Tackle Mini X
The Chaos Tackle 6.75" Mini X is a hand crafted cedar lure that can effectively be twitched, cranked, or trolled. it coms standard with a durable aluminum lip. The tight swimming action of the 6.75" Mini is irresistible to game fish. Sealed, hand painted, and two coats of hand brushed epoxy makes all Custom X Lures not only beautiful but also makes them extremely durable. 6.75" Mini X come standard with three 2/0 Premium Black Trident Treble Hooks.
Chaos Tackle Posseidon 10"
Posseidon 10 has been designed to the perfect length, weight, and balance to swim like no other paddle tail swim bait can. The Posseidon's solid construction makes them more durable than any other soft plastic swim bait made. Posseidon can be fished in many different styles. Anglers have amazing success with a straight retrieve, ripping, twitching, and even trolling. If the Posseidon 10 is moving it's catching. Poseidon 10 come standard two 4/0 Premium Black Trident Treble hooks.
Red October Baits Boo Tube
Re-designed models for 2021 have thicker heads, fuller flashabou tails and all metal beads. Red October's Boo Tube combines their classic tube with irresistable flashabou on the tail end for extra fish enticing action. Red October's Mid-Depth rig is designed for the 10" Monster and 7.5" Ninja Tube. It works great for casting weededges or breaks in that 5 - 25 ft depth range. You can swim it high in the water column by working it fast or count it down then start your retrieve. Works great with a "Yo-Yo" style pump retrieve, or a stead crank and pump retrieve. Two razor sharp trebles, plus the single on top make this an excellent hooking bait.
Husky Musky Leader
Don’t forget your leaders!! We carry only the very best for both trolling and casting. The mighty Huskie Muskie Leader.
GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
Diawa Prorex TW Baitcaster Reel
The all new Prorex TW has been designed with one purpose in mind- to catch Musky. The Prorex TW is a heavy duty, high capacity reel with features perfectly suited for the rigors of big baits and big fish.Complete with an aluminum frame and side plate, UTD Drag, an adjustable length power handle and a heavy duty clutch design- the Prorex TW is ready to handle whatever you can throw it’s way.
Daiwa Prorex Muskie Rod
Hardcore muskie angler this is your rod. The Daiwa Prorex Muskie Rods are engineered with unique features that enhance comfort convenience and techniques. For years, the Prorex name has been a staple among the European muskie fishing market, equipping anglers with the tackle necessary to conquer the world class pike fisheries of places like Norway, Finland, and Sweden. Prorex has landed on US soil with US muskie actions to tame the monsters of the North American lakes. These finely tuned musky rods feature a unique telescopic design on most models that allows for convenient storage and travel. The ferrule is located at the top of the handle, offering a true, uninterrupted rod action and strength that rivals that of a single piece rod. The Prorex Series consists highly studied technique driven models that are each available with two different rod handle options. Traditionalists will appreciate the option of high quality full-grip cork handle, while those looking for something new and different can choose the custom Winn Grip Handle. The soft-to-the-touch Winn Grip handles greatly enhance comfort, style and offer superior grip even in wet conditions. All models are equipped with Fuji Concept "O" Ring Guides.
I hope these recommendations prove successful for you this opener. I know I will have these options tied on. Good luck! And tight lines!
