By Jim Hagerty
Tips for Muskie Fishing in Shenango Dam
Mercer County, Pennsylvania, is known for its fishing traditions. With more than 10 well-known fishing spots, vibrant populations of bass, walleye, catfish and pike, the area offers some of the best sport fishing in the country. Among the hot spots is the Little Shenango Dam, created by tributaries of the Shenango and Beaver rivers. The waters of the Shenango are known for solid muskie fishing. Thirty- and 40- pound fish are common. Anglers can employ certain tips to help win battles with Shenango Dam muskies.
Shallow Waters
Muskie often bask in shallow water. In shallows near rock beds and weed lines, spinners rigged with live bait are effective in catching muskie in Little Shenango Dam, especially at dawn and dusk. Top water lures (5 to 7 inches) in the weeds are also good muskie stoppers. Crank baits are also productive.
Deep Waters
Fishing for fierce, hungry, muskie in the deep waters of Shenango Dam is most effective using a variety of spoons. Trolling is best to reach active fish scanning the mid-levels for feeder fish. The optimum spoon size is 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch with strong, barbed hooks. Casting is also effective. Lures must be moved quickly and swiftly, as muskie often strike by instinct. Shiny lures are reportedly best in Shenango Dam.
Gear
Muskie are strong and swift. Some anglers hunt them just to conquer their mean spirit. It is not uncommon for the smallest muskie to bend a lure beyond repair or break a rod in half during a fight. Long, stiff rods equipped with a solid bait-casting reel is the benchmark. Most anglers, when fishing Shenango Dam, use 20-pound test line or heavier with single-strand or braided wire leaders. Leaders should fall in the 80- to 100-pound test range. Hooks must be sharp, strong and properly barbed. Hooks suitable for muskie fishing fall in the 5-1/2- to 6-1/2-inch range.
About the Author:
Jim Hagerty is a writer and journalist who began writing professionally in 1996. He has had articles published in the "Rock River Times," "Builder's Journal" and various websites. He earned a Bachelor of Science in public relations and journalism from Northern Michigan University in Marquette.
Photo Credits:
Fishing image by Antonio Oquias from
Fotolia.com
