glowbug

If you are going to start to target Musky on a regular basis you're going to need some heavy duty tackle and all the proper release tools and a proper net. Go your local tackle shop and start looking for a musky rod or 2 something 7'6" or longer extra heavy action pair that with a proper heavy reel. Diawa Shimano and Quantum all make a good musky reel. Spool up with 80-100 lb power pro or whatever braided superline you prefer and use a 100lb fluorocarbon leader. Also DO NOT use a cradle use a Beckman or Frabil musky net. A net is the best option for landing a musky it's a lot easier to scoop up an active musky into a net. Using a cradle you basically have to completely exhaust the musky in order to line them up to land them. A musky is a very very fragile fish and if played to long on the wrong tackle and not properly handled they will die after release. If you ever see a musky with a reddish coloured fins that musky is stressed out. The fins go red because of the build up of lactic acid. As for the proper release tools you're going to need some long handled needle nose pliers a jaw spreader and a pair of bolt cutters (knipex) are the best. It's a lot easier on the fish to cut any troublesome hooks rather than struggling to pull one out. Also buy some proper sized replacement hooks. Whenever you hook a musky you want that fish in the net as fast as possible DO NOT overplay a musky. As for pictures one hand slid carefully into the gill plate and the other hand supporting the full weight of the fish held horizontally DON'T hold vertically. Have your cameraman ready to shoot plan out your pictures before you lift your musky up. If done properly there should be lots of water drops still falling off your fish's tail and fins. Please take extra care when releasing your fish you may have to hold on to your fish for 5 or more minutes sometimes to ensure a proper release. A fish tailing glove will help with your grip on their tails. Also after the release watch the water around the area to make sure that your fish doesn't become a floater. Enjoy the fun and often frustrating world of musky fishing.