In this episode, we sit down with Sean McAughey to reflect on his first full season operating Crow Rock Lodge on Lake of the Woods. Sean breaks down what year one was really like—from the biggest victories that made it all worthwhile to the challenges that tested him along the way.

We also dive deep into the open water fishing season on Lake of the Woods, discussing how the bite shaped up overall, what muskie anglers experienced throughout the year, and the patterns that consistently produced. Sean shares insights on what stood out this season compared to years past, including any tactics or trends that surprised him, along with a look at the biggest muskie of the year.

To wrap things up, Sean gives listeners a preview of what’s ahead for Crow Rock Lodge, outlining improvements, modifications, and what guests can expect moving into next season.

Whether you’re a Lake of the Woods regular, a muskie angler planning a future trip, or someone interested in the behind-the-scenes reality of running a world-class fishing lodge, this episode offers real insight and honest perspective from a pivotal first year.

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind: 

Recon Boats: 

http://reconboats.com/ 

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/ 

Joe Bucher Tackle: 

https://joebuchertacklestore.com/

Crow Rock Lodge:

https://www.crowrock.com/

Check out Chas Martin’s musky hunting adventures at:

https://www.youtube.com/user/MuskyMastery

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

​In this episode, we sit down with Sean McAughey, the new owner of Crow Rock Lodge, to explore his journey from a young angler on Lake of the Woods to becoming the proprietor of one of Ontario's premier fishing resorts. Sean shares stories from his early days guiding on the lake, the lessons he learned working in the resort and lodge industry, and the experiences that led him to purchase Crow Rock Lodge. We discuss the rich history of the lodge, its renowned fishing opportunities, and Sean's vision for its future. Whether you're an avid angler, a fan of outdoor adventures, or interested in the hospitality industry, this conversation offers insights into the dedication and passion required to run a successful lodge in the heart of Canada's wilderness.

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind: 

Recon Boats: 

http://reconboats.com/ 

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/ 

Joe Bucher Outdoors: 

www.joebucheroutdoors.com 

Crow Rock Lodge:

https://www.crowrock.com/

Great Lakes Potato Chips:

https://www.greatlakespotatochips.com/

St. Croix Rods: 

https://www.stcroixrods.com 

For more information about Chas Martin’s musky guide services please visit: 

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

If you’ve ever had a musky follow your lure all the way to the boat, only to give you the cold shoulder at the last second, you’re not alone. Muskies are masters of hesitation, and without the right boatside maneuver, they’ll leave you frustrated and empty-handed. That’s where the figure-8 comes in, and in this video, I break down exactly how to turn those stubborn followers into boat-flipping trophies. We’ll dive into why muskies follow in the first place—whether it’s curiosity, territorial instinct, or just a result of fishing pressure making them smarter (or at least they think they are). But here’s the deal: they want to eat, they just need a little extra push. This video will show you how to deliver that push with precision, using a technique that taps into their predatory DNA and forces them to strike.

A proper figure-8 isn’t just a panicked swirl at boatside—it’s a calculated move that needs to be smooth, wide, and dynamic. In this video, you’ll learn exactly how to transition your retrieve from perpendicular to parallel, keep your speed dialed in to match the musky’s mood, and introduce depth changes that make your lure look like the one meal they can’t afford to pass up. Spoiler alert: big fish don’t make tight turns, so if your figure-8 looks more like a figure-2, it’s time for an upgrade. I’ll show you how to make those turns wide, your depth transitions sharp, and your lure movements unpredictable—all the little details that separate a missed opportunity from the best fish of your season.

Of course, triggering a strike is only half the battle. That’s why I’ll also cover what happens after the musky commits, from the perfect boatside hookset (hint: don’t change what works in open water) to keeping the fish pinned during the fight. We’ll talk about keeping their head down, using a long rod to your advantage, and why spot-lock can sometimes be your worst enemy in a close-quarters battle. Whether you're new to the figure-8 or just looking to fine-tune your execution, this video will give you the edge you need to put more muskies in the net. So, if you’re tired of watching fish swim away like you’re not even there, hit play and let’s fix that.

Here are quick links to help you jump to a spot in the vlog video:

[3:15] Listener Q&A (please feel free to commend with YOUR question!)
[32:22] Why do muskies follow and the basics of the figure-8
[45:38] Mastering the TRANSITION from your retrieve into the figure-8
[51:18] SPEED CONTROL in the figure-8
[55:45] DEPTH CONTROL in the figure-8
[1:00:48] The HOOKSET in the figure-8
[1:07:10] Fighting a fish at boatside

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind: 

Recon Boats: 

http://reconboats.com/ 

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/ 

Joe Bucher Outdoors: 

www.joebucheroutdoors.com 

Crow Rock Lodge:

https://www.crowrock.com/

Great Lakes Potato Chips:

https://www.greatlakespotatochips.com/

St. Croix Rods: 

https://www.stcroixrods.com 

For more information about Chas Martin’s musky guide services please visit: 

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

Ever dreamt of that explosive topwater strike, the line screaming off your reel?  That heart-stopping moment is what every muskie angler lives for. But let's be real, those magical moments don't just happen. They're built on a foundation of rock-solid boat control.  Think about it: you're out there casting all day, maybe 1200 times in ten hours, just for that one epic bite.  Even with that kind of dedication, you're still looking at slim odds – unless your boat control is dialed.  A sloppy boat position means your lures are landing in no-man's-land, not in the sweet spot where the muskies lurk.  We've all seen it: the "hunter" aimlessly cruising, the guy working the boat like a caffeinated squirrel, the casts that land everywhere but where they need to be.  That's not fishing; that's flailing.  True muskie mastery is about strategy, not chance.  You're a scientist out there, collecting data.  Every twitch on your line, every follow on your sonar, it's all part of the puzzle.  And the key to unlocking that puzzle?  You guessed it: boat control.

Now, let's talk gear.  Bow mount, transom mount, cable-drive, electric – it's a jungle out there.  Bow mounts are your hands-free heroes, perfect for casting and working lures. Transom mounts?  Great for guiding, not so much for solo missions.  Cable-drive gives you that instant feedback, that connected feeling, especially when snaking through tight spots.  Electric motors?  They're the kings of automation, with spot-lock and GPS features that can seriously up your game.  But here's the thing: it doesn't matter what kind of motor you've got if you don't know how to use it. Wind howling?  Controlled drift might be your best bet.  A good chop on the water?  Fish into the wind for maximum control.  And don't forget about speed!  Bucktails demand a faster pace than glide baits, and live bait?  Slower than a snail.  Ultimately, boat control is about precision.  It's about putting your lure exactly where it needs to be, every single time.  It's about working that figure-8 like a pro, no hesitation, no lag.  And it's about using your electronics like a second set of eyes, constantly scanning for clues, adjusting your position on the fly.  So, ditch the "spray and pray" approach and embrace the art of boat control.  Your muskie dreams will thank you.

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind: 

Recon Boats: 

http://reconboats.com/ 

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/ 

Joe Bucher Outdoors: 

www.joebucheroutdoors.com 

Great Lakes Potato Chips:

https://www.greatlakespotatochips.com/

St. Croix Rods: 

https://www.stcroixrods.com 

For more information about Chas Martin’s musky guide services please visit: 

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

In this video, we dive deep into the fascinating behavior and tendencies of muskies, often referred to as the "fish of 10,000 casts." As tertiary predators with a cautious and inquisitive nature, muskies present a unique challenge to anglers. These long-lived fish can reach ages of 30 years and are known for their notorious following behavior, often trailing lures without striking. Understanding their behavior is key to successful musky fishing, as they exhibit both predatory and learned tendencies based on fishing pressure and environmental conditions. Modern technology has given us greater insights into their movement patterns, revealing that muskies often travel in packs, moving quickly in and out of key feeding areas within hours.

We also explore the biological and environmental factors that drive musky movement, primarily their need to eat and propagate. Water temperature plays a crucial role in their feeding behavior, influencing their mobility and home range, which can span dozens of miles in river systems. Muskies are not solitary hunters; they often move together and react to changes in weather, moon phases, and seasonal transitions. Additionally, targeting large muskies requires a strategic approach, as they have been caught multiple times and exhibit conditioned behaviors. Recognizing peak feeding times and adjusting your fishing strategy accordingly can significantly increase your chances of success. Whether you're pursuing average-sized muskies or trophy fish, this video provides valuable insights to enhance your approach and help you unlock the secrets of these elusive predators.

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind: 

Recon Boats: 

http://reconboats.com/ 

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/ 

Joe Bucher Outdoors: 

www.joebucheroutdoors.com 

Great Lakes Potato Chips:

https://www.greatlakespotatochips.com/

St. Croix Rods: 

https://www.stcroixrods.com 

For more information about Chas Martin’s musky guide services please visit: 

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

Mastering Muskies Episode #3: "Seasonal Muskie Movements – Adapting to the Calendar" dives deep into the ever-changing patterns of muskie behavior throughout the year. Drawing from countless hours on the water, this episode seeks to unravel the mysteries behind where and why muskies move, as influenced by seasonal transitions. Listener questions fuel the discussion, touching on topics such as wind-blown structure tactics, the importance of lure color, setting reel components for specific setups, tiger muskie nuances, and methods for tracking lake-specific subtleties. Each question provides an opportunity to share practical insights and real-world experience, making this episode a must-listen for both seasoned anglers and newcomers eager to refine their muskie game.

From post-spawn spring patterns in warm, shallow bays to summer strategies on deep weed edges and open water, this episode covers it all. You'll hear about solar peaks driving early-season success, the impact of oxygen-rich currents and maturing structures in midsummer, and the significance of forage-driven movements as fall muskies migrate toward deep basins. Lure selection evolves alongside the seasons, ranging from downsized offerings like the 500 Buchertail tinsel in spring to larger, jointed options such as the DepthRaider in fall. Whether it's leveraging subtle weed formations, venturing out of comfort zones, or adapting techniques for different water temperatures, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you master muskie fishing year-round.

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind: 

Recon Boats: 

http://reconboats.com/ 

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/ 

Joe Bucher Outdoors: 

www.joebucheroutdoors.com 

Great Lakes Potato Chips:

https://www.greatlakespotatochips.com/

St. Croix Rods: 

https://www.stcroixrods.com 

For more information about Chas Martin’s musky guide services please visit: 

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

In Episode 2 of Mastering Muskies, we will first begin by diving deeper into musky fishing essentials, tackling some of your follow-up questions from Episode 1. We'll break down the key components of open-face reel and rod combos, focusing on what works best for you. From selecting the right musky line to understanding the importance of leaders and premium terminal tackle, we'll also explore how these choices can impact your success on the water. Learn about the NO “BS” SYSTEM and why components like the JBO Premium Single Strand BB Swivel and #7 split rings can make all the difference when chasing these elusive fish. Keep those questions coming as we continue building your musky mastery!

Next, we’re unlocking the secrets of reading water to locate muskies. By identifying unique lake features (structure) like points, humps, inside turns, and drop-offs, and combining them with effective cover such as rocks, weeds, or wood, you can create a winning strategy. We’ll discuss how muskies utilize structure and cover to ambush prey and highlight the role of baitfish connections in predicting where to fish. With real-world examples—including tips for tackling tough conditions like post-cold-front days—we’ll show how sonar, strategy, and lure choice come together to maximize your chances of success. Don’t miss the detailed breakdown of how I worked a productive structure to land a musky using the SlopMaster.

In this video, I showcase how side imaging technology is revolutionizing the sport of musky fishing! Catching these elusive predators often comes down to knowing exactly where they are after they follow your lure. With side imaging, you can pinpoint a musky's location and direction, turning a frustrating follow into an exciting strike! 

Watch as we use this powerful tool to track a nice musky and set up the perfect presentation for a successful catch in the figure-8. Whether you're new to musky fishing or a seasoned pro, you'll see why side imaging is an invaluable asset for serious anglers.  If you’re looking to level up your musky game, this is the video for you!

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind: 

Recon Boats: 

http://reconboats.com/ 

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/ 

Joe Bucher Outdoors: 

www.joebucheroutdoors.com 

Great Lakes Potato Chips:

https://www.greatlakespotatochips.com/

St. Croix Rods: 

https://www.stcroixrods.com 

For more information about Chas Martin’s musky guide services please visit: 

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

Welcome to my ALL NEW whiteboard educational video series: Mastering Muskies - Beginner to Expert! In this program you will join me as I start with an introduction to muskie fishing and the basics you will need to achieve success. As we continue in this program we will cover more advanced topics with the goal of providing you with the tools you need and want to become a more knowledgeable and successful angler.

Whether you’re brand-new to muskie fishing or looking to sharpen your skills, this ALL NEW whiteboard educational series will provide the foundation for your journey to becoming a master muskie angler.  Stay tuned for upcoming episodes and please drop your questions in the comments section - we might feature them in a future episode!

Thank you to my sponsors for making incredible products and helping us achieve success in one of the hardest sports known to mankind:

Recon Boats:

http://reconboats.com/

For more information about the Recon Boats 895T please visit:

http://reconboats.com/boats/895-Tiller/

Joe Bucher Outdoors:

www.joebucheroutdoors.com

Great Lakes Potato Chips:

https://www.greatlakespotatochips.com/

St. Croix Rods:

https://www.stcroixrods.com 

For more information about Chas Martin’s musky guide services please visit: 

www.muskymastery.com

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/musky-mastery-merch/?srsltid=AfmBOorIrdOYUYl4NZMsGGefYGIMPK0KPFp-dAvWGvxqCkEX6nhRs_QX

Forward-facing sonar technology in fishing is a revolutionary new tool that provides anglers with a real-time, detailed view of the underwater environment. Unlike traditional sonar systems that scan downward, forward-facing sonar sends out a beam in the direction the angler is facing, allowing them to see fish, structure, and the bottom ahead of the boat.  By offering a live, high-definition view of what lies beneath the surface, forward-facing sonar is revolutionizing the way anglers approach fishing but the new sonar technology also raises several ethical concerns.  On this episode of Musky Therapy I sit down with hall of fame angler Joe Bucher and ask him to share his insights into the new technology.
 
For more information about the complete lineup of Joe Bucher Outdoors products please visit:

http://www.joebucheroutdoors.com/

For more information about Recon Boats, maker of the all-new 895T tiller multi-species boat, please visit:

http://reconboats.com/

For more information about Chas Martin's musky fishing guide services please visit:

http://www.muskymastery.com/

To see Chas' Musky Mastery YouTube videos please visit:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwZyrqrZFkzoLzrzTYjCZrw

Join me for this very exciting episode of the Musky Therapy podcast as we talk with National Freshwater Hall of Fame angler Joe Bucher!  Joe opens up about his health and some of the challenges he faced during the 2023 season and how he is now back in the saddle and stronger than ever before.  Next we dive into the saltwater game as Joe brings us up to speed on chasing Bull Reds and Speckled Trout in Florida.  We also discuss Joe's hunting season and his pursuit of a large buck named "Mongo" and then finish with a look at the NEW products that JBO is releasing.  

For more information about the complete lineup of Joe Bucher Outdoors products please visit:

http://www.joebucheroutdoors.com/

For more information about Recon Boats, maker of the all-new 895T tiller multi-species boat, please visit:

http://reconboats.com/

For more information about Chas Martin's musky fishing guide services please visit:

http://www.muskymastery.com/

To see Chas' Musky Mastery YouTube videos please visit:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwZyrqrZFkzoLzrzTYjCZrw