The best spots for river muskies in the spring feature a combination of depth, protection from the current and ample forage. (Photo by Jeff Knapp)
The deep pool we were fishing was located just upriver from where this smaller river joined a larger one. The spot was around 15 feet deep and surrounded by huge rocks that provided cover for fish as well as a barrier to current.
My guide client for the day, Brandon, pitched his Pegassus musky bait out to the edge of the rocks and began a slow twitch/pause retrieve. As the bait neared the boat, a broad-shouldered musky that looked to be in the low-40-inch range pounced on the lure.
Even in the 35-degree water the fish displayed extraordinary energy. A couple showering head shakes and she was gone long before she could be scooped up in the nearby net. The whole episode took...