Musky Therapy

In this episode of Musky Therapy, we kick things off with a Northwoods fishing report covering early October cooling trends and turnover progression before diving in with two-time PMTT World Champion Pete Blicharz. We break down Pete and partner Jarod Donar’s historic victory at the 2026 Recon Boats PMTT World Championship on Lake of the Woods—where they boated nine muskies up to 48 inches to capture the crown on water they had never fished before—and then we deconstruct their journey across the 2026 circuit that earned them a second-place finish in the Top Gun Angler of the Year race. Pete shares master-level insights into breaking down massive new water fast, mapping high-percentage structure, boat partner synergy, and executing under intense tournament pressure!

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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

In this episode of Musky Therapy, we break down how to tackle the critical early-fall transition across the Northwoods, starting with an on-the-water fishing report covering current lake conditions and active bites. And then we dive into the late September turnover period to explain the science behind lake mixing, fish behavior, and how to adapt your game plan on turning water. From there, we explore key early-fall structure shifts as muskies abandon dying weeds for green cabbage and steep breaks, share vital live-bait rigging and boat-control tactics prioritizing fish safety, walk through our top early-fall lures, and round out the night with a few of our favorite fall muskie stories. 

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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

In this episode of the Musky Therapy we sit down with Tammy Jensen, the Lead Marine Rigging and Electronics Specialist at Recon Boats in Iola, Wisconsin. Modern tournament and guide rigs have evolved into complex floating computer networks, and Tammy takes listeners behind the console to explore the craftsmanship, structural composite glassing, and precision electrical engineering required to power today's cutting-edge angling technology. From the hand-laid lamination process that defines Recon hulls Tammy pulls back the curtain on how proper rigging eliminates sloppy marina mistakes, screen interference, and phantom battery drains. 

Tammy also shares expert insights into outboard engine digital networking, zero-tolerance transducer placement on stepped hulls, and key red flags anglers must watch out for when purchasing or rigging a boat. Whether you are looking to bulletproof your boat’s electrical backbone, curious about the future of lithium and digital switching, or simply appreciate true Northwoods boat-building craft, this masterclass in marine rigging is packed with game-changing takeaways!

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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

In this episode of Musky Therapy, we sit down with Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame legend Jim Saric for an in-depth conversation bridging decades of muskie hunting history, science, and tactical innovation. The episode kicks off with a comprehensive Northwoods conditions breakdown alongside Jim’s recent on-the-water report, before diving into his early days grinding on northern Wisconsin’s Lac du Flambeau Chain. 

Jim shares how his professional background as a hydrogeologist fundamentally shaped his approach to reading structural bathymetry, thermoclines, and water chemistry, followed by an inside look at the challenges of publishing Musky Hunter Magazine and pioneering The Musky Hunter television series. 

The discussion culminates in the tactical blueprint behind his milestone of boating 262 muskies of 50-inches or greater across diverse North American ecosystems, timely advice for the next generation of anglers, and a lively, fast-paced rapid-fire question 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 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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

In this episode of Musky Therapy, we sit down with legendary angler and Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Famer Joe Bucher for an in-depth look across his 50-year career. After Luke breaks down the latest late-summer fishing report from Northern Wisconsin, Joe takes us back to the raw era of full-time guiding in the 1970s and '80s—from tackle limitations and dock culture to leading the charge away from the historic catch-and-kill mindset. 

We dive into the kitchen-table origins of Joe Bucher Tackle in Boulder Junction, what drove him to create iconic lures like the TopRaider and DepthRaider, the founding of Musky Hunter Magazine, and the gritty realities of producing over 30 years of syndicated outdoor television. Finally, Joe breaks down his approach to navigating and breaking down massive Canadian Shield waters, along with his tactical game plan for hunting giant muskies on Lake of the Woods out of Crow Rock Lodge this fall, before wrapping up with a rapid-fire "fun-style" Q&A. 

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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

In this episode of Musky Therapy, we sit down with Northwoods fishing veteran Rich Reinert to dive into over four decades of musky angling, lure craftsmanship, and industry history. After kicking things off with a fresh, on-the-water fishing report from Rich’s recent outing with Luke, Rich takes us back to 1982 to break down what guiding looked like before modern electronics, GPS, and high-tech gear. We delve into the art and physics of wooden baits, the evolution of homemade lure making, and the grassroots mission behind founding the Wisconsin Musky Expo in Wausau to support independent builders. Packed with flowage tactics, candid stories, and timeless advice for the next generation of guides, this conversation bridges the gap between old-school knowledge and the modern musky scene.

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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Melby to break down the major structural and operational changes underway at Joe Bucher Tackle (JBT). After opening with a Northern Wisconsin fishing report—covering late-summer weed development, baitfish movements, and top-producing tactics—we transition into an interview detailing JBT’s new era. Mike opens up about his background in welding and fabrication, his partnership with Terry Xiong, and the story behind acquiring the legacy brand and rebranding to honor its 1978 roots. He gives an inside look at JBT's new headquarters in Marshfield, Wisconsin, discussing how bringing production in-house elevates quality control and stabilizes the supply chain. Finally, we discuss the launch of JBT's revamped web storefront (joebuchertacklestore.com), streamlined fulfillment operations, and a sneak peek at custom color runs and future lure innovations on the horizon.

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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

If you’re looking for a little "Musky Therapy," you’ve come to the right place! In this episode, we welcome our new co-hosts, Captain Luke Bogdanovic and Collin Newton, to share the latest musky fishing reports from Ontario and the Wisconsin Northwoods. Then, we dive into key industry topics—including warm-water fishing ethics and best handling practices—before breaking down Garmin’s newest LiveScope release, featuring higher resolution, extended range, and a simplified setup that ditches the extra black box.

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

For more information about Luke Bogdanovic's guide service (LB Fishing Guide Service LLC) please visit his FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090380347514&ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

Musky Mastery Apparel and Merchandise:

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

What does it take to hunt muskies for 26 years without losing the spark? This week, we sit down with the legendary Mike Keyes of Keyes Outdoors to discuss his "off-the-grid" philosophy and the mental grit required to find fish in the wild! We’re skipping the manicured resorts and diving straight into the deep woods, covering everything from early-season river tactics to southern lakes and reservoirs. 

Mike breaks down the critical differences between lake and river movements in the spring, how to effectively look for a bite in "skinny water" and also in the near by deeper holes.  Mike shares his step-by-step process for decoding massive new water systems in record time. We also discuss the mission that fuels his season—his inspiring work with the MACC Fund (Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer) and why the "never-quit" mindset of a musky angler is the perfect tool for making an impact off the water. 

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

For the first time since the 1980s, the "invisible line" across Wisconsin has vanished. Starting in May 2026, the Northern and Southern musky zones are unified, giving anglers in the Northwoods an opening day three weeks earlier than tradition has ever allowed. But is this a win for angler opportunity, or a risk to the next generation of trophies?

In this episode, we sit down with Jordan Weeks, a veteran member of the Wisconsin DNR’s Statewide Musky Team and the 'Musky Whisperer' himself. Jordan wears two hats: a high-level fisheries scientist and a die-hard musky hunter. We go deep into the data that drove this historic regulation change and confront the uncomfortable questions facing the sport today.

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