Musky Shop Blog
Muskie Fishing in Minnesota: Ultimate Guide to Trophy Muskies on Leech Lake, Lake of the Woods & More
Minnesota's muskie fishing scene stands out for its diversity and quality, offering anglers a mix of expansive natural fisheries, trophy potential, and varied approaches across seasons and waters.
Get Prepped for Muskie Season Opener: Essential Tools from Musky Shop
As the muskie season opener approaches, every dedicated angler knows the difference between a great day on the water and a frustrating one often comes down to having the right tools. Quick, safe hook removal, accurate measurements, sharp hooks, and on-the-spot repairs keep the focus on fishing—not fumbling with gear. Musky Shop, the world's largest retailer of musky tackle, stocks some of the best tools trusted by pros and guides alike.
Here’s a roundup of must-have tools to get your boat ready, emphasizing fish safety, efficiency, and durability for those trophy muskies.
1. Reck-N-Rack Bump Board
Accurate length measurements are crucial for photos, records, and catch-and-release. The Reck-N-Rack Bump Board is built from marine-grade plastic with machine-etched markings that won't fade or peel. It's wipeable, stain-resistant, antibacterial, and folds neatly for storage with stainless steel hinges for lifelong durability.
Available in black or white—perfect for quick, reliable measurements.
2. Knipex Hook Cutters
When a big muskie is thrashing with a deep hook, speed matters to minimize stress and injury. Knipex Hook Cutters deliver one-handed, effortless cuts on heavy hooks. These German-made tools are built to last a lifetime with proper oiling and care.
Choose standard or spring-loaded for even easier use.
3. Ugly Stik 90 Degree Tuff Grip Pliers
For deeply lodged baits or hooks, leverage and grip are everything. These 90-degree angled pliers provide better visibility and control, with ergonomic Tuff Grip handles that stay secure even when wet and slippery. Spring-loaded for one-hand operation and rugged enough for tough musky fights.
4. Xuron Split Ring Pliers
Hands down the best for musky anglers—precise, lightweight, and durable. These USA-made pliers handle all split-ring sizes effortlessly, with ergonomic, non-slip grips and a manufacturer's lifetime guarantee. Ideal for quick hook or blade swaps.
5. Boomerang Original Snip Tool
Need to cut line fast during rigging or leader changes? The Boomerang Original Snip cuts clean through braid, mono, or fluoro, with a retractable design that clips to a lanyard or pocket—stays out of the way until you need it.
6. Smity Hook Sharpener
Sharp hooks mean better hooksets and less tearing—essential for muskie's tough mouths. Smity sharpeners feature comfortable wooden handles and come in flat file styles (including rust-resistant options) to get trebles needle-sharp. Easy to keep on the boat for regular touch-ups.
Explore Smity Hook Sharpeners in Tools Section (search "Smity" on site for variants)
7. Eagle Torch
Soft plastics take a beating from pike or toothy muskies—broken tails happen. This compact butane torch provides high heat for quick on-water repairs: melt and fuse tails back together in seconds. Long-lasting and reliable.
8. Tyrant Tackle Jaw Spreaders
Deep hooks require a safe jaw opening technique to avoid injury during unhooking. Tyrant Tackle Jaw Spreaders are fish-friendly, easy to use, and help reduce mortality by keeping the mouth open without damaging the fish. Durable design—just store dry after use.
Tyrant Tackle Jaw Spreaders in the Tools Section (check site for current stock)
Stocking up on these tools means you're prioritizing quick releases, fish health, and your own efficiency—key for sustainable muskie fishing. Head over to Musky Shop to grab them before the opener. Our tools section has everything, often bundled or paired with related gear.
Mastering the Barometer: How Pressure Changes Lock Up Muskies (and How to Unlock Them)
he answer often boils down to invisible atmospheric shifts that make muskies go neutral or lockjaw.
2026 Musky Season Prep Guide: Get Your Gear Battle Ready Now
Preparation now ensures your gear will be in prime condition when it matters most.
Beneath the Ice: How Winter Changes Musky Behavior
Cold water fundamentally changes how muskellunge function.
Whitefish Dill Dip
This creamy, smoky, and herb-filled dip is a classic for a reason. Serve it with crackers, pita chips, rye toast, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Musky Shop Northwoods Fishing Report: Late June 2025
We hope you're all enjoying a fantastic summer and finding time to go fishing in Minocqua, Wisconsin.
Musky Shop Northwoods Lake of the Month: Lake of the Falls
Lake of the Falls is a 297-acre pristine lake with excellent fishing potential and never-ending vistas.
A Closer Look At Northwoods Aquatic Landscapes
The lakes, rivers, and wetlands of northern Wisconsin support a unique variety of submerged vegetation.
Musky Shop Northwoods Fishing Report: Late April 2025
Winter is finally behind us, and it's time to hit the waters for some fishing in the Minocqua area.
Top Musky Reels Compared: Svivlo Genesis One vs Shimano and Daiwa Heavyweights
Musky fishing demands gear that can take a beating and keep casting — over and over again.
Musky Shop Northwoods Lake of the Month: Escanaba Lake
Escanaba Lake can be of interest for those who are interested in trying for musky outside of the regular season
Musky Shop Northwoods Fishing Report: Early April 2025
On the river, there are good numbers of small to medium size Walleyes as well as the occasional trophy mixed in.
Gear UP for Green Bay: The Ultimate Guide to Lure Selection
Green Bay is an exceptional place to try for muskies with a little planning and putting in the time on the water
Beyond the Catch: Mastering Musky Handling and Post-Release Care
To pull off this feat, keep the right musky release tools within arm’s reach for a quick, smooth operation.
Musky Shop Northwoods Lake of the Month: Towanda Lake
Let the Northwoods of Wisconsin soothe your soul at Towanda Lake, an easy-to-find, adventure-packed destination just outside Woodruff.
How to Plan a Successful Musky Fishing Trip: Weather Tips for Anglers
Boost your musky fishing success with weather planning tips. Learn how fronts, water levels, and trends impact angling in this expert guide.
Beginners are Always Welcome to Pursue Musky Fishing
Shallow, deep, dark, clear, small or large size doesn’t matter in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.
What Makes a Great Trolling Motor for Musky Fishing?
A reliable trolling motor is one of the most essential pieces of gear for musky anglers.
The Allure of the Beaver Bait
Truly a lure entirely its own, the Beaver Bait leaves plenty of imagination as to its usage on the water.
