WTB - Possibly Found – 10wt Set Up for Musky!

Aleforme

Steelhead
Forum Supporter
As the title says, I need a full set up. I’ll be gear fishing for Musky at the end of May on the Lake of the Woods in Minnesota and I figured I might as well bring a fly rod along. I know nothing about Musky fishing specifically and I have no clue when it comes to what’s needed for a fly set up other than likely a 10wt Rod/Reel. My buddy has a place there on the lake so he’s the expert but only with gear.

I’d like to keep the rod and reel under $500 if possible. I know something new like the Redington Predator, Orvis Clearwater or something Echo would work but if I could find something on the secondary, all the better. Open to whatever and not locked into any brand. Might end up being a yearly trip so just want something decent quality that I can use for a while.

I’m sure I’ll post something for advice along the way here on the forum.

And when I say a “Set Up” , I mean rod, reel, line, flies, leaders, etc. Again, I know nothing about Musky but figured I might as well give it a shot and dive right into the deep end.

Thanks and any help is greatly appreciated. I can cover shipping or local pick up.

Jim
 
I have an Echo Ion XL 10wt that I got as a backup and have never used. I'd sell it for $200 + shipping if necessary.
Appreciate. If I don't find someone with a complete set up, the Ion XL would be great. Probably add something like a Lamson Liquid and been good to go.
 
If you're fishing up there, I'd be considering a moderate (by today's standards) action 11wt, that'll at least make it easier on you for some of the flies they fish up there.
 
I was definitely wanting to lean a little more "moderate to moderate fast". I thought about an 11wt but we'll probably target some Pike as well. Thought an 11wt might be a little heavy. But something to consider. Appreciate it.
 
Appreciate. If I don't find someone with a complete set up, the Ion XL would be great. Probably add something like a Lamson Liquid and been good to go.
I do have a Lamson Liquid 10wt whatever size that is but I think I need that. I'll double check the situation and let you know.
 
You can probably get by with a very basic reel. I don't think too many musky or pike end up on the reel. I know the few I've caught haven't. Clarkman could weigh-in with way more experience on that.

I have 2 mint Cortland Magnum 140Ds that I use on my musky rods. I think I paid $100 combined.
And this is funny, I actually have a pending offer on a 3rd one from ebay right now. If I get it I'd sell it to you for $40 shipped. Or $30 picked up local.
I like having one lined up & ready for my crazy left-hand retrieve friends. 😁
 
Yep, just find the cheapest line holder possible that balances out the rod (if you end up having to coble something together). I'll dig through my lines and see if I have something I can part with if you end up going that route. I'd assume for LOTW, you'd primarily need a fast sink, but may be worthwhile to reach out to a fly shop in the area. Also, pm me your address if you want and I'll send you a couple flies. May be a little smaller than people there would typically use, but they'd still work and be easily castable on whatever setup you end up with.

This is worth a listen:

🍻
 
Last edited:
Thanks everyone for the offers. I might have a "borrow option" with one of the guys that will be on the trip. If that falls through, I'll probably take some of you up on your offers. It's truly appreciated. And if this become a regular trip, I'll definitely follow back up.

Let me see how the borrow option pans out.
 
PM sent.
 
Back
Top