For new anglers to musky angling, the figure 8 is a much talked about topic. Muskies often follow baits and flies and will often hit boatside. Doing a figure 8 ( or an O) is a crucial part to being successful).
Some tips on closing the deal boatside
Consistency is key- Always keep your bait in the water boatside.
0 or 8? Does not matter, which ever one is easier for you.
Don’t stop reeling when you have a follow. I cannot tell you how many times guests have stopped reeling and pointed yelling “Fish!”
Keep your rod low- There are no rules to musky fishing. It is good practice to put your rod tip in the water as your bait approaches and keep the same speed with the lure flowing naturally into your turn.
Slow down on the turn- give the fish some time to be able to turn around and have time to find the bait.
Do not slow down when the lure gets close to the boat. No baitfish will slow down when a fish is chasing them. Sometimes an erratic retrieve will help trigger a strike.
Go Wide! Make a large turn or 8 boatside. Many anglers move the rod back and forth while the lure stays in the same spot. Have a short line and keep your bait moving.
Get good polarized glasses and make sure you are looking behind your bait. Have more then one pair of glasses. Different colored lenses to match the conditions and water color ( New blog coming in the next few weeks about glasses).
Don’t pull up! When you get a fish hitting boatside, keep your rod low when setting the hook to avoid pulling the bait away from the fish.
Always, always figure 8!