Ronix 51

if you're casting go with the calcutta 400 d. I've owned both...my 401 te was a tank and an awesome reel. The 401d was also a great reel, smaller in size and very smooth. I just didn't like how it had a disengaging-levelwhind but that's just personal preference. I also have the curado which I love for a variety of baits. Check eBay out for deals on Abu Garcia revo toro NaCls, awesome reels I really like the low profile feel of them.

Ivan, I definitely agree with the exaggeration. As far as max growth potential in those lakes I wouldn't be the one to ask but I would imagine either system could pump out some very nice fish especially if they were managed differently stocking-wise. There have been some very heavy fish handled in the trap nets from both lakes but keep in mind it's in the spring time and those fish are plump full of eggs so their weights are misleading. As far as big fish goes my money would be on Chautauqua too for the reasons you stated and less fishing pressure/surface area than waneta does (greater odds of a fish avoiding being caught and clubbed over the head before it can grow bigger)

I've seen/have the trap-netting data from DEC of muskellunge spawning surveys done on waneta lake from the 80s to mid 2000s...I can confidently tell you that that is not even close to accurate

heads up, grammar police.

well over 60 lbs...? I think you might want to check on the accuracy of that...

really looking forward to this, had a blast fishing it for my first time last season!

good recommendations...release tools are a must as was stated before and as far as rod and reels do your research and ask around about different gear. My recommendation is to put your money into a good quality reel first. Your style of fishing will change the more you get into it (once you get your first its a sickness from then on!) and you'll want a nice reel that can handle the abuse of muskie fishing whether its jigging big tubes or chucking 8-12" baits all day. I am a big fan of the revo toro 60s by abu Garcia but there are a lot of good reels out there- which one is right for you will be dependent on how you are going to fish and what your budget is. Rod choices are endless but I prefer st. Croix and have used many different brands. Again, its different for everyone so do your research and make your choice based on others opinions and product reviews. Join the local musky clubs and soak up info from the members so you can get a ton of info

good baits and a lot more versatile than I thought when I first bought mine. Still the only bait I have caught fish on in the Niagara and ive caught a few on them in the lakes too. All were caught casting the baits and all on the vomit shad pattern.

congrats Zach! MTO is hands down the best online shop Aaron really knows how to run it, you'll move a lot of baits there

I know some guys who also may be interested

Larry I was with Mike Clancy on wednesday when we were out sampling sturgeon. He is the one who said it's probably going to be memorial day weekend

Trevor, it's likely that inland season will begin Memorial Day weekend in 2014 and possibly remain open until December 15.