Wow how things can change… This past week we have seen a drastic drop in the water temperatures and the bite has really changed as far as technique over the past couple of days. The big deer are on the move and plenty of beautiful bucks have been taken, myself included.
 

With water temperatures now in the upper 30 degree range we have seen the transformation from a jerkbait/crankbait bite to an almost exclusive live sucker bite for muskies. The muskies have moved to their late fall locations and their metabolism has changed. They are not going to exert any more effort than needed to get a meal and they will be very reluctant to chase a moving lure. But… a live sucker left swimming in a prime location is almost more than a big musky can rest at this time of the year.
 

Contrarily the walleye and northern pike action has been fantastic. We have been having a greet week catching numbers of both species as well as some very good size. Most of these fish have come by slowly jigging a medium sucker minnow or red tailed chub across the bottom in 8 to 12 feet of water. We have been primarily targeting shoreline breaks and sharp drop-offs that lead to much deeper water for the most consistent action.
 

This past week has been very good for deer hunters. Several nice buck were taken and the rut is really starting to pick up steam. A lot of activity is now taking place around feeding locations, and any time of the day could be good not just early morning or evening. Hunters looking to bag their buck should concentrate on funnel location between bedding and feeding areas or set up in close proximity to known food sources. Bucks will be cruising these locations in search of a hot doe at all hours of the day. Remember to play the wind and make sure that you are scent free and you may be the next one bagging that big buck.
 

Have a great week,
 

Phil Schweik
Hooksetters Guide Service
Phone: 715-693-5843