Musky America Magazine July2022 Edition

Most often black is thought of as the best choice for a surface lure. Black is a top choice for one single important reason. It casts a better silhouette. However, in very dark or shallow water, a bright colored surface lure often produces better since it has more side flash. Your arsenal of topwater baits should include some of these high visibility colors, as well as "classic" black. Yes, topwater lures can be effective in the early spring. Pick your lakes and watch the water temperature closely. You can enjoy early topwater action if you hit the right areas and match lure style, color, and speed to existing conditions. Stay with warm water and shallow cover early. Stick with slower retrieves, too. This combination might provide some exciting early season Musky action! EARLY SEASON LOCATIONS Key topwater areas to look for are in and near the entrance to spawning bay areas. Downed trees like those in area A provide cover in an area with warmer water which produces more food earlier in the season. Look for the warmest water to usually be on the north and northeast sides of these bays. Area B provides deeper water with easy access to the shallow areas and a good weedline of new cabbage. This will be a key area later in the spring. Muskies may hold in this area for quite some time before moving out of the bay. Look for Muskies to hold on points

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