2026 Notable Musky Season Tournament ScheduleMoreTournament NameDateLocationEntry FeePrizesNotesPMTT Q1: VitaWorks West Spring ShootoutApril 25–26, 2026Cave Run Lake, KY$700$25,000 first placeProfessional Musky Tournament Trail qualifier; high-stakes pro event.Stan Harrison Memorial Spring Tune-UpAp
As we step into the final stretch of winter, spring is, believe it or not, right around the corner. With open water and musky season drawing closer by the day, now is the time to prepare for the 2026 musky season, and it all starts with your equipment. Preparation now ensures your gear will be in pr
IngredientsFor the Blackening Seasoning (makes about 1/2 cup – use what you need and store the rest):2 tablespoons paprika (smoked or sweet)1 tablespoon garlic powder1 tablespoon onion powder1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level – 2 tsp for extra heat!)1 teaspoon dried thyme1 teaspoon
Critter. Menace. Banshee.Livingston Lures is set to release not one but three new musky baits for early 2026, designed by professional musky guide and lure designer Steven Paul. The Critter, Menace, and Banshee represent three distinct musky fishing strike-inducing solutions built for modern musky f
Not unlike your boat, muskellunge winterize too as temperatures drop and lakes undergo a dramatic shift beneath the surface. As ice creeps across northern waters, wind-driven mixing comes to a halt, sunlight fades, and the lake settles into a season-long state of stability. Cold, low-density water r
We hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Christmas season and is off to a strong start in the new year!Ice fishing in the Minocqua, Wisconsin area has been exceptional so far this season. Current ice conditions are very solid, with most lakes boasting 20 inches or more of safe, reliable ice—perfect for
Pickerel Lake stands out as a versatile 581-acre gem in Oneida County, Wisconsin, delivering excellent multi-species action for ice anglers this winter. Located in the heart of the Northwoods in the town of St Germain, this lake offers a mix of panfish, bass, northern pike, musky, smallmouth bass, a
Catch-and-release musky fishing is the norm today. Most anglers care deeply about the fish they chase, and seeing a musky swim away feels like success. But here’s the hard truth: not every released musky survives, and that’s life.Musky release mortality doesn’t usually happen at the boat. In many ca
Success in trolling depends on precision, and precision demands accuracy. Once you dial in a productive trolling bite, the single most important factor becomes repeatability. That is where a highly accurate line counter matters.Accuracy alone, however, is not enough. Trolling for trophy-class fish p
Musky Shop Northwoods Fishing Report: Early January 2026MoreWe hope you're enjoying a fantastic winter and finding time to get out on the ice!Ice conditions in the Northwoods of Wisconsin are excellent right now, with most lakes boasting 12-14 inches of solid ice and minimal slush on top.Fishing act
With the explosion of trail cameras, GoPros, drones, and smartphones on the water, anglers are capturing more muskie behavior than ever before. For years, stories of these elusive apex predators exhibiting strange antics circulated among dedicated muskie hunters, but hard evidence was scarce. Now, t
The hallmark of a great Booyah is meat cooked until it shreds and a broth made rich from slow-simmered bones. Unlike standard chicken soup, Booyah should be thick enough that a spoon almost stands up in it, aided by the addition of finely shredded cabbage that melts into the base.IngredientsThe Meat
The Northwoods of Wisconsin is a winter paradise for snowmobilers, boasting over 25,000 miles of groomed trails across the state, with some of the finest and most scenic riding in the Midwest concentrated in the northern regions. This area, particularly Oneida and Vilas counties, offers nearly 2,000
Merry Christmas From Musky ShopMore
Ice fishing for crappie offers thrilling action, especially when targeting suspended schools in deeper water during mid-winter. Start by researching state wildlife agency websites or fishing reports to identify lakes and ponds known for crappie populations. Check for trophy fish records or stocking
Early ice fishing marks an exciting start to the winter season, especially for targeting walleye. During this period, walleye are highly active, face minimal angling pressure, and are more eager to strike. This guide covers essential tips, prime locations, effective lure types, and safety precaution
As the winter chill sets in and lakes transform into frozen playgrounds, ice fishing emerges as a thrilling pursuit for anglers seeking adventure and bountiful catches. This sport combines the serenity of snow-covered landscapes with the excitement of reeling in fish from beneath the ice. Whether yo
Ice fishing season is officially underway in the Northwoods of Wisconsin! Here's the latest update on conditions, fish locations, and bait recommendations to help you have a safe and successful outing.Current Ice ConditionsMost lakes now have 3–4 inches of ice with about 8 inches of light, fluffy sn
In the pine-scented lakes of Wisconsin's Northwoods, where crystal-clear waters hide trophy muskies among towering timber and rocky reefs, casting big baits still reigns supreme as the go-to tactic, with trolling playing a solid supporting role. Yet vertical jigging? It's the stealthy underdog that'
As the final muskellunge of fall are landed and the North Woods fall silent under fresh snow, a new season begins—the hush of winter and the thrill of hard-water fishing. If you’ve never drilled a hole through a frozen lake and felt that unmistakable tug from below, this is your year to start. Here’
Tender Deer Backstrap with Braised LeeksMoreThis preparation ensures a beautifully seared backstrap that stays tender, complemented by the mild, savory sweetness of braised leeks.IngredientsI. For the Deer Backstrap (Venison)1 - 1.5 lbs Deer Backstrap (Loin), trimmed of all silver skin1 tsp Kosher S
🦃🍁🍁🍂Happy Thanksgiving from The Musky ShopFrom all of us at The Musky Shop, we want to wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving and say thank you—truly thank you—for your business and support. We greatly appreciate every one of you.For me, Thanksgiving is a special time to reflect on the past year
Though time on the water is shortening for some, those willing to brave colder weather might have a few more days in the 40s to find a late-season musky bite.With that in mind, our Lake of the Month will carry you through winter with great ice fishing, too, when musky season runs out.Big Carr Lake w
Fishing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin is still pretty darn good right now. There aren’t nearly as many anglers on the water as we’ll see heading into mid-to-late November. Many fishermen put the boat away and trade it for a tree stand, but a few die-hards—like several of us here at the Musky Shop—k