Reeling in Tips from Badger Built Fishing

Musky fishing can be one of the most stressful game fish to target here in the Midwest. Countless fishless days are the norm for most anglers. On the other hand, musky fishing can be the most rewarding gamefish to target. and help make you a better angler for other species.

One of the biggest things I have learned over the years are following moon times and learning how to read the forecast. With this in mind you can make the most of your time on the water and pick apart your favorite fishing spot with the odds in your favor.

Moon times are related to moon phases. There are full moons and new moons, where fishing is typically at its best, and there is everything in between from bad days to so-so days. Every day there are "Majors" and "Minors". Both are seen as the best time to fool a hungry fish. Majors are a longer duration than minors, but success can vary between the two.

If you are only able to fish part of a day and have limited time, I like to build my fishing trip around these times. When you are on the water, majors and minors are when you want to be on your high percentage fishing spots. Save your exploring and snack times for the slow times (typically 1-2hrs before major/minors)

Moving on to reading the forecast. The weather is constantly changing and using it to your advantage is a must. If you are after the best fishing, before a storm front is your best bet. Typically, a storm front comes with falling pressure, sending fish into a feeding frenzy! While post storm fronts can bring east winds and higher pressure, causing fish to be lethargic.

At the end of the day, you have to get out when you can. However, if you can get out fishing when both the weather and moon times are at their best, your odds at catching trophy fish can go up tenfold!

Hope this information helps you catch the big one! View our free moon calendar in the Moon Calander tab.

Tight lines!

-Brandon (owner/operator at Badger Built Fishing)