musky hunting

Question
I am taking my Son for his 16th birthday to Wild eagle lodge located in Apple river --chain-o-lakes area--Wisconsin on 8-4-2004. I want him to lock in with a Musky and experience the thrill that I had when I was a kid in catching such a fantastic fish. There is no doubt to me that if my Son could land one of these fish it would be the most exciting experiences of his life. so here is the questions for you:

1) What would be the best lure to use, and next best, and so on?

2) Is the area I selected a "PRIME" spot for the potential of a Musky catch, knowing Canada is #1?

3) Is there a guide you would recommend that you know in this area, if at all---money is important to me but I am willing to pay for quality help?

4) Goal is to catch in my eyes the biggest fighting fish in freshwaters that I know of, please advise your professional thoughts as soon as possible.

Answer
Hi Cliff,

I'm guessing you meant the Eagle River Chain?

The Eagle River Chain is a great place to try for your son's first fish. It is high percentage water, however, not too many fish over 45", but a few.

For lures, I would recommend bright color bucktails. Mepps Musky Killers willow blade with single hook are sure bets. Hook a 3" powerbait twister in a contrasting color on it for a little more action and scent. I would also try topwater baits. Bucher Top Raiders, Topper Stoppers, Cisco Toppers, and Hawg Wobblers are the best right out of the box lures. Make sure to sharpen your hooks, use a good leader, invest in some good line (powerpro or tuf-line in 80#), VERY IMPORTANT-have the right release tools (net, pliers, mouth spreader, hook cutter, and camera). Know how to handle a musky before you hook into one. John can certainly teach you how to handle a musky. One key thing to remember is to keep the fish in the net in the water over the side of the boat while you remove the hooks and get things ready for the pictures. Don't keep the fish out of the water any longer then you have too. Good rule of thumb is no longer then you can hold your breath.

For a guide, I can personally vouch for John Stellflue "Oneida Esox", he is a great guy to fish with, has nice gear, resonable rates, and is very knowledgeable. If he can't make it out with you, I'm sure he will be able to recommend someone good. His phone is (715)369-5285 and his site is www.oneidaesox.com

Hook Em' Hard,
Joe