Northwoods Fishing

The Esox Masquinongy, or Muskellunge, is a fresh water game fish, closely related to the Northern Pike. Muskellunge have no natural predators, and are among the most challenging of trophy game fish. The sheer size and wit of a musky is enough to challenge even the most experienced fishermen. A legal size musky is a minimum of 34", although some lakes have a minimum of 40". However anglers that catch any size Musky can be considered accomplished. The Northwoods of Wisconsin is home to some of the largest muskellunge, making Vilas county, specifically Boulder Junction, the Musky Capital of the World.

In constant pursuit of the musky, Marauders are inclined to fish lakes of the Northwoods by their keen senses. The Marauders have developed an extensive knowledge of Musky hotspots, through diligent research, lake assessments, and most significantly, trial and error. Through years of experience, one Marauder in particular, Dacron Dennis, has honed his skills worthy of becoming a Northwoods Musky Guide.

Ojibwa Jim, along with the rest of the Marauders, is a Catch-and-Release fishermen. When Marauders do catch a musky, they take photographs of the prize, and carefully place the fish back in the water, gently pulling the fish back and forth so that the Musky can regain the oxygen it lost while out of the water. Marauders do not keep their fish as trophies.

The Musky Marauders' respect for the Northwoods is further displayed in their treatment of other fishermen and the environment. Marauders do not litter, and are careful not to disturb nature or other fishermen while they are out on the many Northwoods lakes.

Marauders fish with an array of Musky rods, but Marabou Mike's Glitterstick set the standard for all Marauders. Custom rods are created by Thorne Brothers, and most Marauders take pride in using a graphite rod measuring between 5'5" and 7' depending upon time of year, baits being cast and size of fish being hunted.

Marauders do not use live bait. Any UMA qualifying fish that a Marauder catches with live bait is disqualified from the potential challenge. Marauders prefer to use crankbaits, surfacebaits, face baits, bucktails, the prized minnow spinner, as well as the occasional handmade lure, specially designed and created by Dacron Dennis. Marauders spend time at the outset of every trip at their favorite Northwoods bait shop, Rollie and Helen's.

Marauders- we'll post a picture of you and your trophy fish! Send the WebMaster a picture.