Swimmin' Dawg Figure 8 Success

The Bite:

On our trip to Lake of the Woods last summer, I caught a memorable encounter on video. We knew that big muskies were working this rock complex in the middle of the lake and we were excited to see what was lurking on its southern tip. Spencer was casting out of the back of the boat which meant that the musky he encountered had already ignored two other types of baits, a topwater and a bucktail. As he executed a series figure-8 maneuvers near the boat, a mid forty inch musky appeared, closely trailing the swimmin' dawg.

To his surprise, after a couple of figure-8s, the musky mysteriously disappeared from view. Many anglers might have assumed the opportunity was lost, but Spencer's experience and intuition told him otherwise. Remaining patient and steadfast, he continued the hypnotic dance of the swimmin' dawg, hoping the elusive musky would return for another look.

True to the unpredictable nature of muskies, the predator reappeared with a vengeance. In a sudden burst of speed, the musky inhaled the swimmin' dawg in a breathtaking display of power and precision. Spencer's figure-8 technique had paid off, showcasing the importance of persistence and adaptability in musky fishing.

Tips for Your Trip:

It seems as though musky fishing can be like a chess match between the anglers and the fish. By having three different types of bait in the water works to the anglers advantage, we look at our trips as a team game. Spencer's choice of switching to a swimbait paid off for him. Its realistic, lifelike action and subtle yet enticing movements presented a stark contrast to the other lures, adding a touch of finesse to our bait lineup. This diversity not only increased the chances of triggering a musky's predatory instincts but also ensured that the predator encountered a range of presentations.

Spencer's encounter serves as a valuable lesson for musky anglers everywhere. The disappearance of a musky during the figure-8 doesn't necessarily signal the end of the pursuit. Instead, it underscores the need for patience and persistence. The musky, known for its cautious and calculating nature, may require a moment to assess the situation before committing to the strike.

So, the next time a musky vanishes from sight during your figure-8 routine, stay focused and maintain confidence in your presentation.