How to Catch Northern Pike and Musky in Shallow Lakes: Tips and Techniques
Angling for pike and musky in shallow, weedy lakes (known as eutrophic lakes) can be tricky. The best times for northern pike fishing and musky (muskellunge) fishing in this type of lake is during late summer and early fall, when the water begins to cool off. Don't let the challenge steer you from these great fishing waters. With the right lures and know-how, you can increase your odds for catching big northern pike and muskellunge.
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Instructions
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Use smaller-sized lures and spinners, including those specifically made for weedy waters. Shallow waters tend to have heavy weeds and excess amounts of algae, and a larger lure will catch more weeds. Use shiny fishing lures, as well. These fish have a difficult time seeing your lures; to attract them, stick to brightly colored lures that have florescent coloring in white, gold or silver.
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Fish around areas with lily pads and grassy plants. Look for muskellunge and northern pike in the deeper waters just outside the lily pads. Northern pike and muskie angling is also successful in patchy marsh areas that are similar to areas with lily pads.
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Troll around cold-water springs during the warmer months, when the fish are looking for cooler waters. These can usually be found near bay-like areas of the lake.
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Fish for muskellunge and pike along a shoreline where there are bushy grass fields. When the cabbage and other water weeds begin to die off in the late summer and early fall, northern pike and muskellunge hide in these areas. Areas with blown-over trees and stumps near the shore are also good spots for finding these fish.
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Tips & Warnings
Late summer to late fall is the best season for musky fishing and northern pike fishing in shallow lakes (eurotrophic lakes).
Becareful when musky fishing and northern pike fishing. These two types of fish have very sharp teeth that can hurt you.
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