Fall is finally starting to show itself in a big way this past week. Leaves are really dropping and the woods are taking on a whole new look. Hunters can expect an increase in deer activity over the next two weeks as we move into the prime rutting season. Water temperatures on area lakes and rivers have dropped to the low 50 degree range and by the end of next week I expect them to be in the low 40 degree range. The lower water temperatures will definitely increase feeding activity among most predator fish especially muskies.
 

This past week has been exceptionally good for hunters and fishermen alike. We have seen some outstanding catches of big muskies and walleyes along with a few really nice deer that have been taken by local hunters.
 

Musky action tops the list this past week with several 50 inch class fish being caught along with quite a few other low to mid 40’s fish being caught as well. For just a few we had Robert (Rap) Taylor from Stevens Point, Wisconsin catch his first 50 inch fish and on the same trip Jim Firminhac also from Stevens Point, Wisconsin catch a 49 ½ inch beauty. We had an awesome tiger musky caught by Mike Kadinger from Horicon, Wisconsin while he was out with us, and this was his first musky ever. What a way to get introduced into musky fishing. Welcome aboard Mike! A lot of the musky action has been on live suckers set a various depths that we spread out around the boat while we are casting crankbaits and jerkbaits. The best artificial baits have been Bulldawgs, Suick’s, and Depth Raiders – When it comes to the Depth Raiders, like the countdown Depth Raiders the best.
 

Walleyes and crappies have been very consistent, and if you are looking for some fish for the frying pan now is the time to do it. A lot of the time we are finding both species in the same locations in 12 to 16 feet of water right on or near the bottom. A simple lead-head jig and minnow slowly twitched and hopped along the bottom will catch both species. Another method that has been working for us is by slip bobber fishing. We set up our rigs at appropriate depths to keep our baits slightly suspended above the bottom and then we slip or drift with the current or wind across main lake humps or points to find active fish. Sometimes I will use my trolling motor to help position the boat especially when we come in contact with fish or an area that is holding fish.
 

If you like these reports and want more up to date information or just want to see what is going on along with some great photos check us out on Facebook at: Phil Schweik or Hooksetters Guide Service. Thank you!
 

Have a great week,
 

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