The Best Time to Fish for Muskies

Muskies are highly prized trophy fish.

Fishing for muskies is challenging and rewarding if you are lucky enough to land one. When fishing for muskies, it is important to fish during the season when the fish are most active. The most common methods used to catch muskies are trolling and casting.

Water Temperature

Muskies are most active when the water is approximately 70 F. The time of year this occurs may vary from state to state. According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the best time of year to fish for muskies in their state is late June and early July. Water temperatures are also favorable in the latter part of September and early October.

Time of Day

The time of day is another important consideration when fishing for muskies. Fish are usually most active in the early morning hours, and muskies are no exception. Daybreak is one of the best times to fish. Late evening the fishing action will heat up again, so be sure to fish for muskies between one hour before the setting of the sun and darkness.

Moon Phases

Study the phases of the moon before going fishing for muskies. According to Fishing Info.com, when fish of any type are feeding less often, three to four days just before the full or new moon peaks is the time the largest fish are most catchable.

References

• The Iowa Department of Natural Resources: Fishing For Muskie
• Fishing Info: Fishing Moon Phase Charts