Thanks Travis

Last night, fellow guide Travis Frank and I had discussed hitting the water for some night muskie fishing.  We didn't stay awake, but instead decided to hit the water this morning with hopes of boating a few muskies.

What a morning it was on Lake Minnetonka.  We headed to a few of Travis's "go to" spots and it wasn't long before we were seeing some fish. 

The first spot turned up nothing but by the second spot Travis had a follow and I had a "near hook up" but all it did was blow up and miss the bait.  Arriving at the third spot Travis began to explain to me where the fish like to hang on his spots.  While listening to him and also day dreaming a bit a monster muskie comes up and eats my bait, just about giving me a heart attack.  With the fish turning to run right away, I did not get the best hook set.  After a short battle the fish turned and ran straight at the boat.  It then proceeded to viscously jump on the other side of the boat and it threw the bait.  Well needless to say I was now awake and also a little disappointed.  I felt like my chance for the day was shot.  But Travis had different feelings about the rest of the day.  He told me to hang in there, shake it off, and that we would get other chances.  Travis you weren't kidding. 

When we arrived at the fourth spot I was feeling good and wanted to make up for the previous poor performance.  I thought to myself that if I get another chance today and screw it up, he will kill me.  So in the matter of about 10 casts at the new spot I have one blow up.  It was like someone dropped a water buffalo out of a helicopter.   Looking down at the water I see my bait is sitting there yet, so I reel about three more cranks of the handle and it comes back for more.  This time around it got the bait in its mouth and it starts to swim away.  Patiently waiting, I watch, and Travis says, "He's got it right."  I reel up the slack and laced into the fish like I was on the FLW circuit.  At the end of my line was this giant muskie, measuring in at 49". 

After a short but exciting battle we landed the fish and made a quick release to ensure the fish would be ok.  I can not emphasize enough how important it is to make a quick fight and release when the water gets this warm.  What a great way to spend a beautiful summer morning here in Minnesota.  If you or anyone you know would like to have a chance at catching a fish like this - fish of a lifetime - feel free to contact Travis of Trophy Encounters guide service. 

Thanks again T-Rig, I couldn't ask for a better time with a great friend.  Just remember me when you make it to the top.           

Comments

[Todd Mosher]

Nice fish buddy!Sounds like you had a blast!

[Travis Frank]

That is an awesome story. I like how you even got the FLW hookset in there. I had a blast and yes we will obviously be doing it again very soon. Way to go on the biggin.