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The fellas hop on for an early fall chop sesh chatting from the biggest bite Gus has ever got to the tough warm up, east winds, and conditions we have faced recently. A MOt episode jam packed with musky fishing information to help you out on the water right now! Tap in! https://sugsfishing.com/https://www.thornebros.com/Intro comes from Talladega Nights "That just happened!"
The late September transition into the fall musky bite is all about recognizing feeding windows, adjusting to changing conditions, and knowing where muskies are likely to move next.On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, hosts Steven Paul and Jay Esse break down fall feeding windows and how cooling water, changing weather, and shifting baitfish movements can create short but highly productive opportunities.Steven also announces the release of two new Livingston Lures topwaters: the compact Lil Makk and the completely redesigned Custom Big Makk, built specifically for serious musky anglers.The episode also covers how to break down rivers without electronics—using current, depth changes, visible structure, and fish behavior to eliminate dead water and find productive zones.Fall is here. The windows are getting shorter, the fish are moving, and the details matter.
The late-September transition into the fall musky bite is all about adaptation. As water temperatures begin to cool and baitfish movement changes, musky anglers need to establish a reliable baseline before making adjustments.On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, hosts Steven Paul and Jay Esse break down how to approach late-September muskies across reservoirs, flowages, and natural lakes. The discussion covers changing water temperatures, shifting forage, location adjustments, and how to recognize when conditions are telling you to stay with the program or make a move.Build the baseline first, read what the fish and conditions are giving you, and make the right adjustments as the fall musky season begins to take shape.
In this episode Jeff talks with Taylor Flannery of Musky Guarantee Guide Service about a standout season, from surprising topwater action and effective trolling to the best lures for blades, flap tails and shallow pit bulls. They also cover using suckers and rig choices, practical electronics and auto chart tips, moon-phase windows, and how to approach late-season muskie fishing. Taylor shares field-tested tactics, gear recommendations, and booking info for his guide service as anglers prepare for prime September and October musky opportunities.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, Steven Paul and Jay Esse break down fall reservoir musky fishing and how to stay dialed in as conditions begin changing.The discussion covers trolling speeds for active fall muskies, how seemingly minor weather changes can impact musky location and feeding behavior, and why establishing a solid baseline is critical before making adjustments. Steven also explains the three-point bait check, a simple system for evaluating your presentation and determining what needs to change when targeting muskies.From trolling adjustments and changing fall weather patterns to lure presentation and reading active fish, this episode is built around practical, real-world musky fishing tactics you can put to use immediately.Listen now to the Musky 360 Podcast for fall musky fishing tips, reservoir muskie tactics, trolling strategies, lure presentation, and more.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse break down the future of fall musky fishing and what trophy anglers should expect as water cools, bait shifts, and big fish change their habits.The guys dig into slack line presentations, why that “dreaded reel” moment happens, and how to stay connected when a monster musky eats. They cover late-season musky location, feeding windows, lure selection, and the habits that separate average fish from true giants. Plus a loaded listener Q&A on fall musky tactics, gear, and on-the-water adjustments.If you want practical fall musky fishing strategy, slack-line tips, and real talk on hunting trophy muskies, this episode of the Musky 360 Podcast is built for it.Musky 360 is the musky fishing podcast from the Musky 360 app, hosted by Steven Paul and Jay Esse Each week they cover musky fishing tactics, seasonal patterns, lure selection, electronics, and conversations with serious musky anglers. New episodes weekly. Free app: Musky 360.Steven Paul — TennesseeMuskyFishing.comJay Esse — MuskyShop.comMusky 360 App — Musky360.com
September is when Ontario fishing really starts to change. Water temperatures drop, fish patterns shift, and opportunities to target some of the biggest salmon, muskie, and bass of the season begin to open up. In this episode, Jesse and Andrew break down how they approach this transition and what they're looking for on the water.From choosing the right baits and gear to adjusting techniques based on water conditions and time of day, they share practical strategies for finding and catching fish during late summer and early fall. They also swap stories from recent fishing adventures and discuss how changing fish behaviour can help you put more and bigger fish in the boat.Whether you're chasing aggressive bass, staging salmon, or putting in the work for a trophy muskie, this episode is packed with Ontario fishing tips to help you make the most of the seasonal transition.AOA in the Wild Series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJAFJR20cSGA&si=Gm_8JzUQMj3FFIR9 JB Designs - https://jasonbilous.wixsite.com/jasonbilousdesignWalleye Country Long Hauler - https://walleyecounty.com/products/long-haulerRapala Tail Dancer - https://www.rapala.ca/ca_en/rapala/lures/lures-by-series/tail-dancer-series?srsltid=AfmBOopMFSU5ZXb_W-zQGN0M855HVIZ9rQK6T6hZ-cFn7bzRsLaP_oigRapala J13 - https://www.rapala.ca/ca_en/jointed?childSku=ca-J13SLittle Cleo - https://www.acmetackle.com/products/little-cleo?srsltid=AfmBOoq_V4dinR9uiMbfiQmAR3WS1vP1ek1uWowAq5EyuJeUenbJ5_E_Salmon Fishing Podcasts 1. https://youtu.be/gb9GfmcBO8o?si=BBkM0l4w40kSTQ7A Salmon Podcast 2. https://youtu.be/pCzXEJaV3Mw?si=al30mgxhhC5sc9Kn WamBaits - https://wambaits-canada.myshopify.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqBCWqaVPXLGnZdMOBbXuihAdEGAnfv2utbF1tcGzp6RAW44zKIGrandpas Tacklebox - https://www.grandpas-tacklebox.com Erhai tackle - https://www.erhaitackle.com Spro Chad Shad - https://www.spro.com/products/kgb-chad-shad-180?srsltid=AfmBOoqHl_FrwRAWx2Gni54ZNXdjUJeuEVeA8k0THFDniQW_AqIfJd0CBeats Boast Miyagi Swimmer - https://www.canadiantacklestore.com/products/beast-coast-miyagi-swimmer?srsltid=AfmBOopnX2Fir1cLmOVJthnTrMfclfqL6G6r7-CIrlzhkabUgeVdoWwfBig Blade Chatterbait - https://zmanfishing.com/products/big-blade-chatterbait-rMusky Medusa - https://chaostackle.com/collections/medussa/products/regular-medussaEgghead Spinnerbait - https://handlebarzfishing.com/collections/spinner-baitsDrop Tine Triple Deuce - https://droptinetackle.com/products/triple-deuce-eliteWaterwolf Ratzilla - https://waterwolflures.com/products/ratzillaWaterwolf Shadzilla - https://waterwolflures.com/products/shadzilla-sb-9-5Dying Dawg - https://musky-innovations.myshopify.com/collections/dyin-dawgsSuick - https://suick.com/product-category/suick-thrillers/Support the showWe appreciate your support in making this one of Canada's favourite fishing podcasts! This show is ad free for your listening pleasure, but if you feel inclined to help us cover some of the cost incurred in producing this show please click the support show link
Episode OverviewHow should anglers pick streamer color when the light drops out on an East Tennessee tailwater? On this East Tennessee Fishing Report from The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with guide Ellis Ward for a conditions update on the Watauga River and the South Holston River after an unusually wet stretch pulled the region out of a prolonged post-Helene drought. Ellis walks through how the sudden swing from months of low water to near-constant rain has scrambled the normal dam release schedule, turning a predictable one-to-six-o'clock Watauga generation window into something closer to ten-to-six or noon-to-nine depending on the day, while the South Holston has only recently returned to regular releases after the TVA system spent the better part of a year recovering from drought. That inconsistency has made dry fly fishing unpredictable, so Ellis has leaned harder into dirty water streamer fishing, night fishing and mousing to keep clients on fish. The back half of the episode tackles a listener question on late-day streamer selection: Ellis explains that a fly's color has almost nothing to do with how a trout perceives it in low light or off-color water, since a backlit fly reads only as a silhouette regardless of hue. Instead, he breaks down why opacity and water-column position, not color, drive strikes when the sun drops or the water turns dirty, using a four-inch Drunk and Disorderly as his low light standard.Key TakeawaysHow to read Watauga and South Holston release schedules when heavy rain pushes actual generation windows well beyond their posted baseline times.Why a streamer's color becomes irrelevant to trout in backlit or off-color water, since profile and opacity determine what the fish actually sees from below.When to switch to a bigger, opaque streamer fished higher in the water column for low light or dirty water strikes.How positioning a streamer near the surface exploits the same predatory "kill shot" instinct anglers see when a big trout follows a fly up before committing.Techniques & Gear CoveredEllis breaks down a practical framework for low light and off-color water streamer fishing: when light is reduced by cloud cover, a low sun angle or dirty water, color stops mattering because a backlit fly is seen only in silhouette, so the two variables that matter are opacity (how fully the fly blocks light) and where it sits in the water column. He favors densely packed materials such as deer hair or craft fur over sparsely tied bucktail for maximum light-blocking, contrasting a sparse bucktail fly with a Craft Fur Changer to illustrate how much more effectively the denser material blocks light once it's wet and compressed. He fishes that fly higher in the water column so a predatory trout gets a clean, unobstructed shot at it rather than having to hunt it out of deeper, murkier water. His go-to for these conditions is a four-inch Drunk and Disorderly, fished in white, yellow or tan with some flash since color reads as irrelevant to the fish in these conditions.Locations & SpeciesThis report covers the Watauga River and the South Holston River tailwaters in East Tennessee, both part of the TVA's 32-dam reservoir and tailwater system. The primary target species is brown trout, with the discussion centered on dry fly fishing during stable release windows and streamer fishing when water runs high or dirty. Seasonally, the region is climbing out of a prolonged drought that followed Hurricane Helene, with persistent heavy rainfall now producing extended and inconsistent dam releases, flash flooding on Watauga tributaries and a tradeoff between stained water (better streamer fishing) and clearer water (better dry fly fishing).FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat color streamer should I fish in low light conditions?Color is largely irrelevant once light is reduced by clouds, a low sun angle or dirty water, because a fly viewed from below against a backlit sky reads only as a silhouette. Instead, focus on opacity (how completely the fly blocks light) and fish it higher in the water column where a trout can see and commit to it more easily.Why doesn't fly color matter to trout in dirty or backlit water?When an object is backlit or viewed through off-color water, black, white and every color in between look essentially the same dark shape, since there isn't enough light transmission for the fish to distinguish hue. What a trout actually keys on in these conditions is the fly's profile and how much light it blocks, not its color.How should I position my streamer in the water column during low light or stained water conditions?Fish it higher in the water column rather than dredging it deep, since a trout has an easier time targeting prey it can silhouette against the surface than something buried in dark, off-color water. This also mimics how predatory fish naturally corral baitfish toward the surface for an easier, more effective strike.How have this season's dam release schedules on the Watauga and the South Holston been affected by heavy rain?After a long post-Helene drought, persistent heavy rainfall has pushed the Watauga well beyond its normal generation window, turning its typical one-to-six-o'clock release into stretches closer to ten-to-six or noon-to-nine depending on the day. The South Holston only resumed regular releases in the past couple of weeks after the broader TVA system spent months recovering from low water, making dry fly fishing inconsistent this summer.Related ContentS8, Ep 50 - Navigating Summer Waters: Ellis Ward on Trout, Musky and the Art of the Evening BiteS8, Ep 37 - Big Water, Big Fish: Ellis Ward's Strategies for Streamer Fishing SuccessS7, Ep 45 - Navigating the Waters: Streamers and Strategies in East Tennessee with Ellis WardS6, Ep 128 - Catch Big Fish: Ellis Ward's Insider Tips for East Tennessee AnglersView all East Tennessee Fishing Report episodes with Ellis WardConnect with Our GuestTo learn more about Ellis, check out our interview!Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.Think our community is a good fit for your brand? 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This week Jeff sits down with musky guide Ty Sennett to break down the wild PMTT tournament in Iowa (including a 16-fish winning performance), how he uses side imaging, and why specific baits like bull dawgs, tubes and the Pacemaker work in different situations. They also cover guide life on the Chippewa Flowage, seasonal and weather patterns, and new gear updates from Team Rhino Outdoors.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, competence and confidence in your musky fishing program. Simple changes for better results from your host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse.
This week on the Musky 360 Podcast, host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse deliver an in-depth recap of Steven's month-long pursuit of trophy muskies in Canada. Steven breaks down what worked, what failed and what he learned while targeting giant Canadian muskies under constantly changing conditions.The episode covers trophy musky location, fish movement, weather patterns, forage, water clarity, lure selection and the adjustments required to consistently contact big fish. Steven and Jay also answer a wide range of listener questions covering musky fishing techniques, equipment, seasonal strategies and the realities of hunting mature muskies on Canadian waters.You'll also get up to speed on the newest musky lures, emerging bait designs and the latest developments from Steven Paul. Whether you fish Canada, the Great Lakes, the Northwoods or southern reservoirs, this episode delivers practical musky fishing information designed to help you locate, trigger and land more trophy-class fish.Listen now for expert musky fishing advice, Canadian musky tactics, new lure insights and straight talk from two experienced anglers.www.TennesseeMuskyFishing.com
Host Jeff chats with John Bette of Stealth Tackle about the recent loss of musky legend Hans Mann, their recent fishing trips, and gear updates from bump boards to spinnerbaits. They also cover local impacts like recent tornado damage and how it affected work and fishing schedules. John gives a concise mid-season terminal tackle rundown: change snaps before fall, use longer leaders (12–14"), upsize leader strength for bigger baits, consider titanium leaders (with caveats), run 80 lb braid for general use but 100 lb for sucker rigs, and prefer solid rings for reliability. Practical, gear-focused advice to get ready for the fall bite.
This week, legendary angler Pete Maina refuses to re-hook a fish for the sake of better Saturday morning TV, we crank some Foghat at the VFW and go night scoping for sponsorship deals, long for the days when trophies followed more than they ate, and add some balls to our Suicks to show the kids how it's done.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, the ups and downs of musky fishing trips. How to prepare BEFORE you get there and how to adjust quickly to ever changing conditions, with host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse.
In this episode of Back Lash Podcast, Jeff talks with Kevin Pischke of Lay in a Line Guide Service about musky fishing on Green Bay — current conditions, season timing, and how anglers are adapting after stocking changes. They cover gear and techniques (swimbaits, bucktails, trolling setups, KP leaders), launch and crowd issues, tips for finding fish among perch and weeds, and how to book a trip with Kevin.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, how to take proper advantage of a hot musky fishing bite window. Selecting and predicting Musky patterns, listener Q&A and more from host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse.
Well, this week marks the first ever MOT pod where Gus does not make an appearance. Max and Brian hold down the fort and get ya up to speed on plenty of current events. Max's short Vermilion send, the mega storm that crushed the hometown of Appleton/Menasha, prepping for Canada, AI robo teachers, Papa Mantey guest appearance talking big fish stories, Mount Rushmore, and what's working in the northwoods right now. Tap in to this rollercoaster of a pod!Shoot Gus a message if you'd like to book a trip this fall! Still a couple prime openings:https://sugsfishing.com/https://www.thornebros.com/Intro clip comes from a MOT favorite: Dumb and Dumber. The Sea Bass scam
On this episode of Back Lash Podcast, Clayton Spiess (Thistle Dew Outdoors) walks through his season — from Green Bay opener to guiding on Vermilion — sharing trolling tricks, bait picks (jointed vs. straight shads, bangers, pit bulls), and why fish are often higher in the column. Clayton also discusses Team Rhino Outdoors gear, handling musky in warm water, his upcoming trips and availability, and how to book a guided outing.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, the ultimate survival guide to zero feedback on your musky fishing trip. What to do to be successful and how to accomplish finding big fish with all of the variables at hand. Host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse break it down.
On this weeks episode Brendan is joined by Sam Chasse, a M.Sc Candidate from the University of Winnipeg with past guest Dr. Hasler! He's been working on a super cool project that involves Musky, machine learning, and angler photos. Tune in to learn how Sam and the team at the University of Winnipeg built a system to identify individuals in angler photos from the Master Angler Program in Manitoba. They discuss the challenges and benefits of this technique, and what it could mean for future behaviour studies and fisheries assessments! Manitoba Master Angler Program - https://anglers.travelmanitoba.com/ Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).
Episode OverviewWith freestone trout streams across the Southeast pushing into the upper 60s and low 70s by mid-morning, serious anglers need a plan for beating the summer heat. On this Casting Angles installment of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash and Master Casting Instructor Mac Brown of Mac Brown Fly Fish and Fly Fishing Guide School in Bryson City, North Carolina, break down how to keep catching trout — or productively wait it out — when peak summer temperatures push freestone fishing to its limits.Mac and Marvin agree that the dog days of summer call for a shift in strategy rather than a day off the water. The conversation centers on East Tennessee's Watauga and South Holston tailwaters along with Western North Carolina's Nantahala, all three of which hold cold water for much of the day, plus the Clinch River below Norris Dam and the deep, cold Fontana Dam tailwater. By contrast, the Tuckasegee ("the Tuck") is a tailwater that doesn't run nearly as cold as the others, since its dam doesn't create enough head to keep the release chilled. The pair walk through the early-morning window — roughly daylight to 9:30 or 10 a.m. — as the best bet for active trout before heat shuts things down, and they recommend checking USGS gauges and the TroutRoutes app to confirm flows and water temperatures before heading out. When conditions simply aren't fishable, Mac and Marvin suggest reinvesting that time in casting practice or fly tying rather than forcing a trip. The episode closes with a teaser for Mac's upcoming fall casting schools, with full details and dates available at macbrownflyfish.com.Key TakeawaysHow to identify which regional tailwaters — the Watauga, South Holston, Clinch and Fontana releases — hold consistently cold, fishable water when freestone streams push past 69–70°F by mid-morning.Why fish in bigger bodies of water retreat to deeper, cooler holds as afternoon temperatures climb, making them much harder to reach with a fly.When to fish the early-morning window, roughly daylight to 9:30 or 10 a.m., for the best shot at active trout before the summer heat shuts down the bite.How to use USGS gauges and the TroutRoutes app to check release schedules and water temperatures before committing to a trip.Why elevation alone doesn't guarantee cold water, since even streams near 6,700–6,800 feet can push toward 70°F by mid-morning in peak summer heat.When to redirect fishing time toward casting practice or fly tying rather than forcing a trip into conditions that are too warm to fish well.Techniques & Gear CoveredThe core strategy discussed is prioritizing tailwaters over freestones during peak summer heat, since dam-regulated flows on rivers like the Watauga and South Holston hold consistently cold water while freestone streams climb toward 70°F by mid-morning regardless of elevation. Mac and Marvin recommend checking USGS stream gauges alongside the TroutRoutes app, a podcast sponsor (Use ARTFLY20 for 20% off), to review flow schedules and available water-temperature data before planning a trip. They also frame the early-morning window, from daylight until roughly 9:30 or 10 a.m., as the most productive stretch before warming water pushes safe fishing out of range. For anglers boxed in by travel or work schedules that don't line up with cooler weather, the hosts suggest using the downtime productively — working on casting fundamentals on a soccer field or similar open space, or tying flies indoors until conditions improve.Locations & SpeciesThe conversation centers on East Tennessee's two primary trout tailwaters, the Watauga and South Holston, along with the Nantahala in Western North Carolina — all three of which stay cold thanks to dam releases even as regional air temperatures spike. Mac also points to the Clinch River below Norris Dam in Tennessee — including a weir section that was fishing well as of a recent report — and to Fontana Dam's tailwater, where depth of nearly 470 feet keeps discharge in the low 50s even at the height of summer. By contrast, the Tuckasegee ("the Tuck") is a tailwater in Mac's home area that doesn't run nearly as cold, since its dam doesn't create enough head to chill the release the way the others do. Across all of these waters the target species is trout, with the guidance shaped entirely around peak summer heat: freestone streams in the region are pushing toward 69–70°F by 10 a.m. even at elevations of 6,700–6,800 feet, making the cold, stable tailwaters the more reliable option through the hottest stretch of the season.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhy is trout fishing difficult during peak summer heat?As water temperatures climb through the day, trout in bigger bodies of water move deeper to find cooler conditions, which makes them much harder to reach with a fly. Even high-elevation freestone streams in the region can push toward 69–70°F by mid-morning, which is enough to shut down activity. Trout mortality rises significantly as water temperatures rise into the upper 60s making catch and release angling unethical. The trout will usually die post release.What time of day should anglers target trout streams during hot summer weather?The best window is early morning, roughly from daylight until 9:30 or 10 a.m., before water temperatures climb into the range that suppresses feeding activity and endangers trout post release. After that window closes, Mac and Marvin suggest shifting plans rather than fishing through the heat of the day.How can anglers check water conditions before a summer fishing trip?Marvin recommends checking release schedules and water temperatures using USGS stream gauges, along with the TroutRoutes app, which provides flow data and, on streams equipped with temperature gauges, water-temperature readings as well.Which tailwaters stay fishable through peak summer heat in this region?East Tennessee's Watauga and South Holston rivers hold cold water for much of the day. The Clinch River below Norris Dam and the Fontana Dam tailwater in Western North Carolina, which runs in the low 50s even in summer due to the dam's nearly 470-foot depth, are two other reliable cold-water options mentioned in the episode.What should anglers do when conditions are too hot to fish safely and effectively?Rather than forcing a trip into unproductive and unsafe heat, Mac and Marvin suggest using that time to work on casting fundamentals or to tie flies indoors, and to wait for a seasonal cool-down, which typically arrives as August progresses.Related ContentS8, Ep 50 - Navigating Summer Waters: Ellis Ward on Trout, Musky and the Art of the Evening BiteS8, Ep 49 - Mastering the Cast: Mac Brown's Insights on Shooting LineS8, Ep 45 - Casting Fundamentals: Mac Brown on the Art of the Reach MendS8, Ep 41 - Offbeat Seasons and Terrestrial Tactics: Mac Brown's Fishing StrategiesS8, Ep 48 - Summer Heat Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Smallmouth TipsView All Casting Angles Episodes with Mac BrownConnect with Our GuestFollow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, musky fishing bait selection as tools that are must haves. Speed is an audio signal, how to apply that in your retrieves. What water temperatures are too hot for musky fishing. All this plus a Bash recap from your host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse.
Isaiah Hahn of You Bet! Guide Service Talks all things fishing...especially muskies!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Welcome to another episode of Back Lash Podcast where host Jeff interviews guide Ryan McMahon, covering musky tactics in Minnesota. Ryan discusses crankbaits, bucktails, trolling spinnerbaits, swim baits, gear choices, boat maintenance, and guiding details, plus tips for fishing weeds, speed, and blade selection. Learn practical techniques and how to book a trip with Twin Cities Musky.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast. Host Steven Paul chimes in from glorious Florida before Icast begins. Co-host Jay Esse gives a local extreme heat look at local conditions and a preview of the Musky Shop Bash this Saturday. Plus Q&A from our amazing listeners on all things Musky Fishing.
Episode OverviewHow do East Tennessee anglers keep varied, high-quality fishing going through the peak of summer heat? On this East Tennessee Fishing Report from The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with guide Ellis Ward for a summer conditions update covering tailwater trout, musky and an evening-into-night program that few outfitters offer. The answer, as Ellis explains, comes down to water: East Tennessee's cold tailwater releases stay productive for trout even on the hottest days, while nearby musky water holds in the low 70s, giving anglers a rare menu of species and techniques regardless of the forecast.The conversation moves through an unusually strong summer streamer bite for brown trout in the 14- to 25-inch range, with Ellis explaining why section-to-section variability and angler expectations matter more than any single pattern or retrieve. He describes his preference for targeting fewer, bigger fish rather than fishing indicators for numbers days, and details the close-to-the-surface, low-light strikes that produce the most violent, committed eats of the season, comparing that aggression to how post-spawn fish feed. He also breaks down how tributary runoff and turbidity from high water can create inconsistent windows for sulphur hatch dry fly activity, with fish keying on bug availability tied to clarity and light rather than air temperature alone. A significant portion of the episode focuses on Ellis' evening-into-night program, in which he chases the hatch transition into mousing for trophy browns, offering a different rhythm than the typical 8-to-4 lodge schedule. He closes with a candid discussion of the physical toll that late-night guiding takes and why July and August are the prime window for anglers wanting to experience the full range of the summer program in a single trip.Key TakeawaysHow East Tennessee tailwaters stay cold enough to keep trout fishing productive through the hottest days of summer while nearby musky water holds steady in the low 70s, opening up options other regions lose to summer heat.Why summer streamer success depends more on managing expectations and reading section-to-section conditions than on any single fly pattern or retrieve.When cloudier, lower-light conditions and fishing a streamer closer to the surface tend to produce the highest-commitment, violent strikes from large brown trout, a pattern Ellis compares to the aggressive feeding behavior of post-spawn fish.Why targeting fewer, bigger fish with streamers can outperform indicator-based numbers days once summer bite windows narrow.Why tributary runoff and increased turbidity can shut down sulphur hatch dry fly activity even when conditions otherwise look promising.How targeting the evening hatch transition into night mousing opens up trophy brown trout opportunities that most lodge-based trip schedules miss entirely.When to plan a summer trip to experience streamers, dry flies, mousing and musky fishing all within the same visit.Techniques & Gear CoveredEllis walks through his summer streamer approach, targeting fewer and bigger fish rather than running indicators for numbers days, with an emphasis on two-handed retrieves using Game Changer-style patterns, Clousers and Kreelex Minnows depending on light and water clarity. The season's standout strikes come close to the surface in lower light and stained water, producing the kind of committed, violent takes he compares to post-spawn feeding behavior. On the dry fly side, sulphur hatch activity is the primary summer draw, though Ellis stresses that bug emergence tracks closely with turbidity and cloud cover rather than simply air temperature. For the evening program, he transitions from dry fly presentations on 4- and 5-weight rods into mousing after dark, a tactic that demands patience and a mental approach he compares to musky fishing. Gear spans a wide range, from 4-weight dry fly rods up through 8-weight streamer setups, along with baitcasting gear for musky depending on what the day calls for.Locations & SpeciesThis report covers East Tennessee tailwater fisheries, where cold water released from upstream reservoirs keeps trout fishing productive even during the region's hottest summer stretches, when many other regions see fishing quality decline. Target species include brown trout in the 14- to 25-inch range, with fish on the higher end of that range producing the season's most memorable streamer eats, along with musky and striper as secondary targets depending on conditions and angler interest. Seasonal context centers on summer heat management: tailwater releases keep trout water cold while separate musky water stays in the low 70s, and periodic tributary runoff introduces turbidity that shapes both streamer and dry fly windows day to day. Ellis notes that the July-to-August window offers the widest range of options, with the program shifting away from streamers, dry flies and mousing once fall arrives.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhy does East Tennessee offer such varied summer fishing options compared to other regions?Tailwater releases keep trout water cold and productive even on the hottest days of the year, while nearby musky water holds in the low 70s during the same stretch, an unusual combination most regions don't have. That range lets anglers choose between trout, musky or even striper depending on conditions and preference, without summer heat shutting down the fishing.How does summer streamer fishing vary throughout the day and across a river?Ellis emphasizes that the same stretch of river can look completely different four hours apart, so consistency in technique matters more than chasing a single hot bite window. He also cautions that angler expectations often outpace reality, since most fish will not slam a streamer the way anglers picture, and staying mentally locked in over a full day continues to pay off even during slower stretches. He also contrasts his approach of targeting fewer, bigger fish with the higher-volume numbers days some anglers chase using strike indicators.Why does dry fly activity slow down even when sulphur hatches are strong?Tributary runoff following recent flooding pushes turbidity into tailwater sections, and bugs are less likely to emerge in off-color water regardless of temperature or time of year. Fish and insects both respond to clarity and light, so a little color in the water often produces better dry fly activity than gin-clear conditions, particularly under overcast skies.Why does Ellis Ward run an evening-into-night fishing program instead of a standard daytime schedule?Chasing the evening hatch transition into mousing lets anglers catch the window when big fish become most active and least pressured, since most lodge-based trips are off the water by late afternoon. Ellis acknowledges the tradeoff is real: trips can run past midnight, and sustaining that schedule night after night is physically demanding, even though he considers it worth it for the fish it produces.When is the best time to book an East Tennessee trip for the full summer program?Ellis recommends the July-to-August window for anglers who want to experience streamers, dry flies, mousing and musky fishing in a single visit, since that stretch offers the widest range of conditions and techniques. He notes this program runs for roughly three to four months before shifting focus by fall.Related ContentS7, Ep 45 - Navigating the Waters: Streamers and Strategies in East Tennessee with Ellis WardS8, Ep 12 - Flows and Focus: Navigating Spring Fishing in East Tennessee with Ellis WardS6, Ep 98 - Navigating Late Summer Waters and Mousing Tactics with Ellis WardS6, Ep 142 - Winter Musky Adventures and Streamer Tactics with Ellis WardConnect with Our GuestFollow Ellis and Flyzotics on Instagram.Follow Ellis on YouTube.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our
Musky 360 Podcast: Speed, Boat Channels, Current Positioning, and Small Boat RiggingOn this week's Musky 360 Podcast, host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse break down how speed can trigger big muskies and why boat channels are often overlooked big fish locations. They discuss how muskies use channels, current, edges, and high-flow areas to position and feed, especially when conditions push fish into predictable travel routes.The episode also covers high current musky positioning, how to approach smaller musky fishing boats, and practical boat rigging tips for better efficiency and safety on the water. Steven and Jay also answer more listener questions, covering real-world musky fishing strategy, boat control, lure presentation, and seasonal decision making.If you want to better understand musky movement, current-related fish behavior, and how to make your boat setup more effective, this episode delivers practical musky fishing information you can use on the water.
We sat down with Wade Hopper, Zach Morris, and Shane Stewart of Team Hog Wild to talk about musky fishing, fly fishing tournaments, and their win at the Kentucky River Musky Classic. From tough conditions and muddy ramps to clear creek mouths and early morning eats, this conversation is packed with stories, strategy, and hard-earned lessons from anglers who know what it means to put in the time for musky.This episode is about more than chasing toothy fish. It is about teamwork, preparation, adaptability, and staying locked in when one good cast can change the whole day. Whether you fish for musky, smallmouth, trout, or anything in between, there are plenty of takeaways here for your own time on the water.Key Highlights:Key Highlights:Focus on side profile, hard strips, and killing the fly at the right moment.The guys explain why musky tournaments are built on camaraderie as much as competition.Team Hog Wild shares how they won through tough water and changing conditions.Creek mouths, structure, stained water, and timing all shaped their approach.Learn how size, color, profile, and action affect musky eats.Each guest shares a fish story that still stings.Resources:Kentucky River Musky Classic InstagramVisit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA
Will Buehler of Sconnie Guy Adventures joins Back Lash Podcast to talk musky fishing in Northern Wisconsin shortly after his wedding. We discuss current water temperatures and weather windows, summertime patterns, and where musky are likely to be — weeds, rock humps and main-lake structure. Will covers tactics and gear: casting vs trolling, crankbaits (including a 4.5" boss shad), Pit Bull rubber baits, top waters, titanium leaders, leader lengths, and rod choices. He also shares guide availability, booking info, and encourages exploration of new water to find fish.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse get you dialed in for summer musky fishing.This episode breaks down the dos and don'ts of summer musky trips, including how to approach and analyze baitfish, how to read key areas, and the three high-percentage zones where anglers should concentrate their efforts. Steven and Jay also dig into the small details that make a big difference when conditions get tough and muskies get selective.If you are planning a summer musky trip, this episode will help you fish smarter, make better decisions, and put more muskies in the net.
Luke Ronnestrand joins the JMO Podcast for a great fishing conversation. Luke has two and a half decades of experience as a musky guide on Lake Vermillion in northern Minnesota. He's big fish hound for all species of fish and is regarded to many top anglers as the "Fishiest guy I know". It's an honor to have Luke on the podcast to chat about the details that really matter to catching more big fish. Musky anglers notoriously pay excessive attention to details when it comes to getting just one bite of a lifetime and that's the energy we try to tap into in this interview. Montana Gov Cup - https://www.montanagovcup.comOnX Fish - https://www.onxmaps.com/fish/app PROMO CODE: “JMO” for 20% offDevils Lake Tourism - www.devilslakend.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_jmopodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/JMOFishingPodcastWebsite - https://jmopodcast.com
Welcome to episode 372 of Backlash Podcast where Jeff talks with Dan Donovan, owner of Musky Fool Fly Fishing Company. They discuss building an online brand into a brick-and-mortar fly shop, Dan's video series The Figure 8 Chronicles and the Spot Burn Podcast, fly-fishing gear and guides, and the challenges and passion behind running a specialty retailer. The episode also covers conservation, musky stocking debates, and ways anglers can get involved to protect fisheries.
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we sit down with Capt. Sam Scott of Blue Ridge Muskies to discuss a serious and growing concern on the Jackson River and Upper James River: pollution concerns connected to the Smurfit Westrock paper mill in Covington, Virginia.Sam breaks down what he has seen firsthand on his home waters, including dramatic water discoloration, sludge-like buildup on the river bottom, major dark-water events, poor fishing conditions after discharge events, and concerns over dissolved oxygen, water temperature, aquatic vegetation, spawning success, and the long-term health of the James River muskie and smallmouth bass fisheries.We also discuss why this issue matters beyond fishing. The Jackson River feeds the Upper James, one of Virginia's most important recreational river systems for anglers, guides, kayakers, tubers, and outdoor tourism. Sam explains why he believes more transparency, public awareness, and expanded water testing are urgently needed — including testing for more than just dissolved oxygen.This conversation also touches on a national report that identified the Covington Smurfit Westrock facility as one of the most concerning paper mills in the country for pollution, emissions, odor complaints, and its impact on the Jackson River.This is an important developing story for anyone who cares about Virginia rivers, the Upper James fishery, muskie fishing, smallmouth bass, clean water, and the future of outdoor recreation in the Mid-Atlantic.There's a link to the environmental article talking about the papermill: https://environmentalintegrity.org/news/pollution-from-the-u-s-paper-industry-is-vastly-under-reported-new-study-reveals/?utm_source=chatgpt.com Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon down below: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com Link below to Blue Ridge Musky Websites and Social Media Email Sam at: blueridgemusky@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgemusky/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgemusky YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BlueRidgeMusky BlueRidgeMuskey.com: https://blueridgemusky.com/guided-trips/ LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Flint Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/43t8h5N Max4 Fishing: https://bit.ly/4unuiOsSupport the show
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, Dr. Bob joins host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse for a loaded early season musky conversation. The guys break down Minnesota musky studies, what the latest information means for anglers, and how early season patterns are shaping up across the musky range.Steven, Jay, and Dr. Bob also dig into one of the most misunderstood patterns in musky fishing: timber. Learn how to approach wood correctly, where muskies position in timber, and how to fish it efficiently without wasting casts.Plus, the crew answers listener questions from the Musky 360 audience, covering tactics, seasonal adjustments, fish behavior, and more.
This week Devo has an investment opportunity that can't lose! Quick everyone, get your life savings together! Meanwhile, Carsie Blanton is sharing an important distinction, Randy Rainbow has all the trappings of a modern major general, and Thomas Benjamin Wild is roasting dude-bros. Mmmm, smells delicious! 1. "Elon Musk" by Carsie Blanton 2. "A Very Stable Genius, part 2" by Randy Rainbow 3. News of the Stupid! 4. "Bullshit and Bravado" by Thomas Benjamin Wild, Esq. Carsie Blanton is at CarsieBlanton.com Randy Rainbow is on YouTube Thomas Benjamin Wild, Esq. is at TomBWild.com Thank you to our Patreon backers for making this show possible!!!
On this week’s show, we’re learning more about musky research and management in Minnesota. Kamden Glade from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources joins the show to talk about some of the muskie tagging and research he’s done on Lake Vermilion, as well as some of the other projects happening across the state. He tells us what he’s hoping to find, what they’ve discovered so far, and more. Joe Henry has the latest from Lake of the Woods. Bret and Dan start the show recapping their family fishing trip and talking about the potential pause on Minnesota’s elk relocation because of Red Lake, and Dan tries out the MN DNR Electronic Licensing App for the first time. Make sure you're “following” us on your favorite podcast streaming platform so you never miss a show, and if you like what you're hearing, leave us a rating and a review. We'd love to hear from you, and it helps us more than you know! Save 20% on a new OnX HUNT Membership with the code “SJR20” https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app/east https://fishhuntforever.com Find us on SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/5OVGMvd5vMvETdClc6ks6q?si=5bfeed6989d04b23 Find us on APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fish-hunt-forever/id1248475232 Find us on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/fishhuntforever Follow us on INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fish.hunt.forever/ Follow BRET on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bret.amundson/?hl=en Follow DAN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_amundson/?hl=en Find us on TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@fishhuntforever Follow DAN on TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@dan.amundson Follow BRET on TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@bretamundson Get a NEW BOAT: https://www.raysmarinealex.com/ Take a trip to LAKE OF THE WOODS: https://lakeofthewoodsmn.com/ Take a trip to DEVILS LAKE: https://www.haybaleheights.com/index.html Get in on the Rainy River/Lake of the Woods FISH MIGRATION: https://riverbendresort.com/ Learn more about SPACE TRAILERS: https://spacetrailers.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooboQSOhbWZ18_wMvVzkAIZx0uGsJiClXI22XCheqrdD8SEIUHn Learn more about CHEF ROBERTS: https://chefroberts.com/ Get OnX FISH: https://www.onxmaps.com/fish/app https://fishhuntforever.com/feed/podcast/ The post Week 719: Minnesota Musky Management with Kamden Glade appeared first on Fish Hunt Forever.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, Steven Paul returns from Spain after attending Europe's largest sport fishing trade show, bringing firsthand insight into the latest tackle trends, new product innovations, and what anglers can expect in the years ahead.The conversation then shifts to one of the biggest challenges in musky fishing: choosing the right trophy water. Steven and Jay break down what separates truly elite fisheries from the rest and how anglers can maximize their chances when planning a big fish destination trip.Plus, algae blooms can turn productive lakes into frustrating puzzles. Learn how changing water conditions impact musky behavior and discover practical strategies to stay on fish when blooms take over.Join host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse for another episode packed with musky knowledge, current industry insights, and actionable fishing advice.
On this episode of the Back Lash Podcast (take two), host Jeff is joined by Brad Hoppe and guide Luke Bogdanovic to talk early-season musky action on Green Bay tributaries and northern Wisconsin rivers. They cover bait choices (bucktails, swim baits, topwaters), raft guiding tactics, seasonal patterns, useful apps, and the realities of running a guide business — plus a hilarious on-the-water story captured on camera.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, Steven Paul checks in from the floor of the EFTTEX 2026 in Barcelona while Jay Esse holds down the fort at The Musky Shop.This episode dives deep into the mental side of musky fishing, exploring the thought processes, decision-making, and mindset that separate consistent anglers from the rest of the field. Plus, listener questions, current musky trends, and plenty of practical takeaways you can apply on your next day on the water.Available now on Musky 360 with hosts Steven Paul and Jay Esse.
Listen to or watch (YouTube/Spotify) the fellas chat with Luke Ronnestrand this week about all things Minnesota as we approach their opener this Saturday. Luke is an incredible story teller and we get into some real good ones this episode! Awesome downsizer baits, rods and reel details in this one as well. Tap in!Video Podcast available on YouTube & Spotify: https://youtube.com/@muskiesontap?si=-fFPmGIHGcIOvvc_https://sugsfishing.com/https://www.thornebros.com/Cold opener comes from comes from an old season 4 episode of The Simpsons (Gus's favorite season) - "Good ol' rock, nothing beats that!"
Jeff chats with guide Chase Gibson to preview the Minnesota musky opener, discuss current water temps and early-season patterns, and highlight gear and guide availability. They cover musky behavior, trolling vs. live scope, West Virginia strain genetics, and practical tips for anglers planning to hit the water this weekend.
Kevin Cochran's Musky Guide Service has been toolin' the musky populated waters of Paul Bunyan Country since 2005. So how does he feel about the 2026 opener and the state of muskies in Minnesota? Plus, how do you get started in musky fishing...and a Fast Five about his "other" job...Kindergarten Teacher. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, how to read Musky fishing conditions and choose the correct lure presentation for everyone in the boat at the right time. Plus listener Q&A with host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, host Steven Paul and co-host Jay Esse break down how serious musky anglers turn mapping details into real fish catching opportunities. Learn how contour lines, structural transitions, isolated spots, and overlooked details on your electronics can help you locate higher percentage musky water and fish with greater efficiency.The crew also dives into beginner musky fishing equipment essentials, including what gear actually matters, common buying mistakes, and how new anglers can avoid wasting money on the wrong setups. From rods and reels to line choices and practical on-the-water considerations, this episode delivers straightforward advice built around real musky fishing experience.Plus, listener Q&A, musky fishing strategy discussions, and more from the crew at Point Blank Musky Hits on this week's Musky 360 Podcast.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, professional musky anglers Steven Paul and Jay Esse break down how to truly get dialed in musky fishing and eliminate the guesswork that holds anglers back. From understanding seasonal musky behavior and locating active fish to refining lure selection and presentation control, this episode focuses on the small adjustments that consistently lead to more follows and more strikes.Steven and Jay also dive deep into the science of presentation intensity at depth, explaining how lure speed, cadence, vibration, sound, and movement change as muskies position deeper in the water column. Learn how water depth, fish mood, pressure, and environmental conditions affect how aggressively you should work your bait and why many anglers unknowingly overpower their presentations.Plus listener Q&A covering musky fishing tactics, lure retrieves, triggering neutral fish, sonar observations, muskie behavior, and real world adjustments that help anglers catch more muskies consistently.If you want to become a more efficient and more dangerous musky angler, this is an episode you do not want to miss.
Welcome to Back Lash Podcast featuring Kyle Friedges of Beyond the 8. Kyle shares stories from Eagle Lake, Canada, and the musky belt, discusses gear, filming challenges, and the enduring mystique of muskie fishing. We touch on YouTube content strategies, merchandising hiccups, banger bucktails, electronics like spot lock and mapping, and the importance of sustainable fisheries while reflecting on angling legends and the joy of exploration on the water.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, hosts Steven Paul and Jay Esse break down some of the hottest new musky gear and tackle just arriving in stock while diving into one of the biggest problems in modern musky fishing: how social media is creating unrealistic expectations for anglers chasing trophy muskies. From viral catches to misleading highlight reels, the guys discuss how online content can distort what real musky fishing actually looks like and how serious anglers can stay focused on consistent success instead of internet hype.The conversation also explores a major musky behavior topic: where muskies position during solunar periods and how moon phases, feeding windows, bait movement, and environmental conditions influence fish activity. Steven and Jay discuss musky location patterns, timing, structure positioning, and how understanding solunar periods can help anglers make better decisions on the water.Plus, listener Q&A covers bait school mishaps, common musky fishing mistakes, musky lure presentation adjustments, and critical musky handling practices every angler should know to safely release trophy fish. If you are serious about musky fishing, muskie tactics, musky behavior, musky lures, musky conservation, and becoming a more consistent predator angler, this episode is packed with real-world musky fishing knowledge you can actually apply on the water.Musky 360 Podcast with Steven Paul and Jay Esse.
Welcome to another episode of Back Lash Podcast featuring Kyle Hunsader of Hunsy Tails. We discuss Kyle's musky fishing origin, the creation of the ‘banger' bucktail, product development, and his role with Titletown Muskies Inc. on Green Bay. Topics include club involvement, stocking and pit-tag surveys, opener tips, and a memorable meetup anecdote.
On this week's Musky 360 Podcast, hosts Steven Paul and Jay Esse break down one of the most critical and misunderstood topics in musky fishing—how to fish a spring cold front. As cold fronts continue to roll through during the early and mid-spring season, musky anglers are forced to adjust or fall behind.This episode dives deep into how cold fronts impact musky behavior, location, and feeding windows, along with proven tactics to stay on fish when conditions turn tough. Learn how barometric pressure shifts, water temperature drops, and changing light conditions affect muskies—and what you need to do to keep putting fish in the net.Plus, listener Q&A covers real-world musky fishing questions, giving you actionable insights you can apply immediately on the water.If you're serious about musky fishing in the spring, this is a must-listen episode.
Today we have a killer show that ends with a KILLER deal, on one of the best selling rods of the last 5-10 years! It's a deal so good, you have to do a double take, but I promise, it's real. We also tackle the topic of scented soft plastics in this week's fishing poll, and in the mailbag we discuss rod and reel cleaning, the Tatula X vs Shimano SLX XT, budget musky setups, and more! LINK TO ARDENT REEL CLEANING KIT: https://amzn.to/41hC14E Tackle Talk is presented by: The Rod Locker | www.therodlocker.com | Promo Code: TACKLETALKAPRIL Additional support provided by: Amped Outdoors | www.ampedoutdoors.com Humminbird | www.humminbird.com Minn Kota | www.minnkotamotors.com