How to approach a new lake

[sqwidbrain]

How would you go about fishing a new lake you haven't been to? What kind of structure is best? If you only have a weekend. A plan is good to have, whether it works or not is another story. What would you do?

[Tone2129]

Get a topography map.
Depending on what time of year figure out what the fish are doing.
During the spawn they are in the shallows on their beds. Post spawn they are in deeper water feeding, and up on flats cruising.
During the fall the water is cooler and they become a little more active.
Find clear water.

I am far from expert, but thats what I would do!

[Chad]

Cover a lot of water.
Find a fast bait - spinner, crank, etc. - that you have confidence in and cover water.

[Brian]

Originally Posted by sqwidbrain

How would you go about fishing a new lake you haven't been to? What kind of structure is best? If you only have a weekend. A plan is good to have, whether it works or not is another story. What would you do?

Two tips: a) Do your homework on the particular lake and, b) find the baitfish.


The "best structure" on any given lake is the biggest structure available - no matter if it's a hump, crib, gravel bar, boulder pile, weed line, whatever. Do your homework and understand why and when they relate to different types of structure will save you a lot of time on big lakes with different types of structure.

Second only to knowledge, Electronics are a muskie fisherman's best tool. Learn, and I mean really learn, how to use (and properly interpret) your electronics. If you know how to use them, your electronics will tell you exactly where the fish are and, (if you've really done your homework) what kind of mood they're in.

For homework on the lake, I'd start by talking to other muskie anglers who regularly fish the lake in question. Is there a Muskie's Inc. chapter in the area? If so, contact them, ask a few questions. You'll likely get all the information you need, right there.

Another option, if available, is to hire a local muskie guide for a 1/2 day. Pick his brain, soak it up, and use that information for the remainder of the trip on your own.


- B

[ogrefish]

you could type for days on this!
Brian, this sounds like a good topic for a meeting presentation. Does anyone else have an opinion?