Musky America Magazine July2022 Edition

SURFACE LURE TUNING TRICKS When it comes to tuning baits, many fishermen overlook their topwater lures even though tuning is often critical to performance. On wobbling type lures such as the Creeper or Jitterbug, carefully adjust the wings or lip to obtain a uniform wobbling action or side to side roll at slower speeds. Make sure that props rotate smoothly and evenly without any resistance on propeller type lures, like the Globe and Topper. I often bend up the inside of the prop on a Globe or a Mudpuppy lure to get a more pronounced plopping sound Changing the actual sound by tuning the bait will often produce more strikes. In fact, sometimes changing the sound pitch in these lures makes all the difference. Study the sounds these lures make very closely. Sometimes the most subtle difference in sound can produce amazing results. Also check all screw eyes and connectors for sturdiness. They will pull out of wood plugs quite easily if they're not checked often. Finally, make sure all hooks are sharp. Needle sharp hooks will catch those fish that don't hit the bait solidly. TOPWATER TIPS Proper timing on the hook set is really important when fishing topwater lures. Many times, a Musky will "blow up" on a surface lure, but never actually touch it. Setting the hook on a "blow up" more often than not results in a missed fish. Watch your lure closely and set only when you see or feel the Musky take the lure. I know that a "blow up" can really rattle your nerves, but by following this policy you will increase your hookups dramatically. Occasionally twitching the lure after a miss every few feet will often draw solid strikes with a few missed fish, too.

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