Muskie, also known as musky or muskellunge, is a popular game fish among anglers due to their large size and elusive nature. If you're looking to catch a trophy-sized muskie, using the right live bait can be the key to success. In this blog post, we'll go over some of the best live bait options for muskie fishing.
- Suckers
Suckers are one of the most popular live bait options for muskie fishing. They can grow up to 12 inches or more, making them an ideal choice for anglers looking to catch larger muskie. Suckers are also a hardy bait, which means they can survive longer on the hook than other bait options. When using suckers as live bait, it's important to hook them through the dorsal fin or tail to give them the best chance of survival.
- Perch
Perch are another great live bait option for muskie fishing. They are a natural food source for muskie and are readily available in many bodies of water. Perch are best used in shallow waters with a lot of cover, as this is where muskie are most likely to be found. When using perch as live bait, it's best to hook them through the back or the lips to keep them alive and kicking on the hook.
- Chubs
Chubs, also known as creek chubs, are a popular live bait option for muskie fishing in the fall. They are hardy, easy to catch, and can grow up to 6 inches in length. When using chubs as live bait, it's best to hook them through the lips or the back to keep them alive and swimming. Chubs are best used in deeper waters where muskie are more likely to be found.
- Large Minnows
Large minnows such as creek minnows, golden shiners, or lake shiners can also make great live bait for muskie fishing. They are easy to find and can grow up to 5 inches or more in length. When using large minnows as live bait, it's best to hook them through the back or lips to keep them alive and swimming. Large minnows are best used in shallow waters with a lot of cover.
- Gizzard Shad
Gizzard shad are a popular live bait option for muskie fishing in the summer. They are a natural food source for muskie and can grow up to 10 inches or more in length. When using gizzard shad as live bait, it's best to hook them through the back or the lips to keep them alive and swimming. Gizzard shad are best used in deeper waters where muskie are more likely to be found.
Using the right live bait can be the key to success when it comes to muskie fishing. Suckers, perch, chubs, large minnows, and gizzard shad are all great live bait options for muskie fishing, and can be used effectively in different conditions and at different times of the year. By experimenting with different types of live bait and techniques, you'll increase your chances of catching a trophy-sized muskie on your next fishing trip.
