Team Rhino Outdoors Musky Podcast

Episode 28 - Exploring New Musky Lures with Steve Herbeck

In this enlightening episode of the "Musky Gear Monday" series on the Team Rhino Outdoors Musky Fishing Podcast, we are joined by fishing legend Steve 'Herbie' Herbeck. In our conversation, we dive deep into exploring the innovative new baits on the market - the Kraken and the Big Makk from Livingston Lures. Herbie shares his wisdom on fishing top-water baits and the extensive application of tube baits. This conversation promises to introduce you to undiscovered fishing nuances, irrespective of your fishing experience.

The focal point of this episode is the Kraken — it's unique drop style, and ability to change skirts colors, making it highly attractive for fishes. We discuss its versatility, durability, and its ability to serve as a throwback bait. The insights shared in this podcast equip listeners with practical knowledge on enhancing the functionality of a Kraken with diverse tail styles and choice of color.

We further discuss the Big Makk, a tail-rotating top-water bait renowned for its unique features and high durability. It maintains its balance at any speed due to its design and delivers an enticing look to the fish. The episode concludes with a thorough discussion of the Big Makk's built-in clicker and the ideal sound it should make.

In this episode, we also delve into topwater fishing, innovative strategies employing advanced technologies like the EBS (electronic bait fish sound), and certain retrieves that might not be commonly considered by anglers. We share an exciting trick called 'dead sticking', and various retrieve techniques to transform your style and level up your angling skill.

The podcast episode wraps up with a discussion on upcoming seasons and baits, hinting at a new anticipated addition to the market. Listeners are also guided on how to reach out for fishing advice and guide bookings. An empowering episode, this promises to enrich your knowledge about fishing gear and practices with insights from Herbie, a legend in the fishing world.

Episode 27 - Talking Lake X and Elk River with Jake Nelson

Discover the world of musky fishing with Jake Nelson, an insider with Flambeau Forest Outfitters, Lake X, and Elk River, in another insightful episode of Team Rhino Outdoors Musky Fishing Podcast. Get a deeper understanding of Lake X's operations and future, and explore the high-quality products and the little known Elk River story. Delve into the intricacies of muskie fishing gear, water conditions, and effective baiting techniques. Explore the musky landscape of Wisconsin, guided by Nelson's company, Flambeau Forest Outfitters.

In this episode, enjoy a lively discussion about the use of big baits and their effectiveness. The thrill of casting cannonballs and grabbing that elusive musky will be unveiled as we shed light on the right bait sizes, types, and movement. Know more about Elk River fishing rods, the meticulous process of their creation, and the excellent customer service that ensures you keep coming back for more. This podcast is a treasure trove for anyone enthusiastic about navigating the waters of big bait fishing.

If you are an angler or aspire to be one, this podcast has something insightful and interesting for you. Step into the world of fishing, find out the advantages of various fishing gear, and learn how to enhance your own fishing experience. Tune in to this exciting episode!

Episode 26 - Nick Eddy talks Spring Fishing and IC7's

Join us for another episode of our Team Rhino Outdoors Muskie Fishing Podcast, "Musky Gear Monday," where we deep dive into the enthralling world of muskie fishing. This episode offers a valuable interview with Nick Eddy, the owner of Musky Frenzy Lures. Gain deep insights into spring muskie fishing, explore exciting new lure releases, and get a sneak peek into the world's hottest baits of 2024.

Discover new, effective fishing tactics and the importance of choosing the right lure with our discussion about Kramer Brothers' wood ticks, Elk River rods, and the stagger blade bucktail that has revolutionized the muskie fishing industry. Learn about Lake X Lures and their latest developments, guaranteed to pique your interest.

Get unique insights into the running of a successful bait building company from Musky Frenzy Lures founder, Nick Eddy. Experience the excitement of the fishing sport coupled with the business aspect, evoking a brilliant blend of passion and entrepreneurship. Enjoy the light-hearted moments of fishing through jokes and exciting revelations that add a fun twist to the sport.

This podcast episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone gearing up for their next muskie fishing adventure. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to gain industry insights that could elevate your fishing game. Tune in now and stay ahead in your muskie fishing journey.

Episode 25 - The Journey of Creating VK Musky Lures with Vance Kaloz

In the 'Muskie Talk Monday' episode of Team Rhino Outdoors Muskie Fishing Podcast, we welcome Vance Kaloz from VK Musky Lures. Unwrapping the intricate process and journey of becoming a respected producer of muskie lures, Vance discusses his unique bait designs 'Stinger Gliders' and chronicles his transition from under the label Fat AZ to his own brand VK.

Hear Vance's backstory, his passion for bait-making, and the role he played in the niche popularity growth of his stinger creation in the muskie lure market. Learn about the importance of functionality of every part of a lure brought about by handcrafted precision, and how customer demand impacts their manufacture.

As we delve deeper, the discussion shifts focus on muskie fishing itself. Vance shares valuable insights into the types, weights, and uses of gliders and other baits, his preferences for rods, and why anglers should also take into account bait presentation in their fishing strategy.

Witness Vance's intricate journey of fine-tuning the six-inch glide, every detail from weight tunings, split ring sizes, to the critical epoxy finish matters in order to achieve the perfect bait. Listen in as he narrates the ups, downs, passion, and perseverance required in this craft, ultimately leading to his success in the musky fishing industry.

Don't miss this episode of Muskie Talk Monday—a gripping story of dedication, science, and innovation in pursuit of revolutionizing Muskie fishing.

Episode 24 - Talking Musky Fishing Rods with Gavin Falk

Welcome to another riveting episode of Musky Mondays where we dive deep into the fascinating world of muskie fishing rods. In this episode, our host engages in an enlightening conversation with Gavin Falk from St. Croix Rods. We explore the vast selection of rods suited for various seasons and discuss different types of graphites, ratings, and the distinction between moderate action versus fast action. Not only do we touch upon St. Croix rods, but also shed light on Chaos Tackle, Fenwick, Musky Innovations, and Okuma Rods.

Join us as we discuss lure ratings, their importance and how they can impact the quality of your fishing experience. Hear firsthand our favorite 'first fish' stories and catch up on our passion for fishing. We further delve into discussing various St. Croix lineups, the Premier, Mojo, and The Legend Tournament series while sharing insights about guides.

This highly informative episode is overflowing with valuable information that every muskie angler needs to know. Embark on an educative journey with Gavin and Team Rhino Outdoors and make an informed choice for your next fishing adventure.

We go in-depth on topics like tip actions, the difference between medium heavy and extra heavy action rods, and the significance of various rod actions pertaining to specific fishing locales. Additionally, we reveal our thoughts around best-selling rods and personal favorites to help you find your perfect gear.

Our goal is to equip you with dependable, superior, and high-performance fishing gear for the best fishing experience. Brace yourself for an insightful episode that profoundly explores the intricate world of muskie fishing rods and learn from the expertise of seasoned anglers.

Episode 23 - Gus Mantey talks musky gear

Join us on an exciting journey into the thrilling world of muskie fishing in another episode of "Muskie Mondays". We invite Gus Mantey, renowned from the Muskies On Tap podcast and Sugs Fishing, for an in-depth discussion on muskie fishing gear, tactics, experiences, and his personal journey as an angler.

We delve into the various aspects of muskie fishing, sharing tips, techniques, and personal stories that shaped our passion for the sport. We explore an array of gear preferences, from Musky Innovations, St. Croix rods, Chaos Tackle rods, Bulldogs, Cowgirls, IC7s, and more. Discover our choices of fishing nets, including the unique drifter tackle net and get insights into handling crankbaits and bucktails effectively.

As a bonus, Gus introduces his guide service, enabling you to book a guided fishing trip. Hear more about his journey from a casual pike fisher to a devoted musky hunter, learn from the knowledge he shares, and deepen your understanding and love for muskie fishing.

From wood versus rubber bait to adjusting weights for differing water situations and selecting the perfect rod, Gus provides a wealth of knowledge. We question the popular belief that understanding daily fish behavior correlates with successful fishing and explore new gear releases in 2024 that caught Gus's interest.

Gus concludes our interesting conversation by sharing his approach to adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of muskie fishing. Engaging in this podcast will leave you with a rich understanding, whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned angler. Tune in to celebrate the allure of musky fishing and emerge enriched with practical wisdom and expert advice.

Episode 22 - Brad Hoppe helps bring us out of hibernation

Get ready to take your muskie fishing skills to new levels! Immerse yourself in the art and science of muskie fishing with Team Rhino Outdoors and our special guest Brad Hoppe from Musky Mayhem Tackle. Gain a deep understanding of the best fishing gears and techniques, discover valuable insights on the innovative 'Grenade' bait variant and learn how to navigate fishing events like the Minnesota and Wisconsin Muskie Expo.

In this exciting episode, Jeff from Team Rhino Outdoors shares his wealth of experience, expertly divulging secrets of the trade to help you become a better angler. Journey with us as we discuss everything from the composition of custom rods and reels to subscribing to our podcast so you don't miss any future episodes.

Get inside the minds of fishing guides as they talk about their experiences on the water, their favorite gear, the fish they catch, and their inspiring stories. Also, learn how Team Rhino Outdoors is embracing the dynamic world of custom gear to provide products for all your angling needs. Brad Hoppe then takes the spotlight to share his insights on fishing lures and how to reel in the season's best catch with Musky Mayhem Tackle.

Come face-to-face with Brad's expertise on the much-hyped 'Grenade' series. Unravel the unique characteristics of each Grenade bait, gain a better understanding of bait retrieval speed, weight, length, and fall rate. Learn how to troll these blade baits effectively, address messy casting, and ensure consistent retrieval.

Cap off this enlightening episode by delving into the ideal rod setup for utilizing the Grenade series efficiently. From the flexible Blademaster II to the sturdy Blue Ox, get to know which rod suits these baits best. Plus, get a sneak peek into Brad's experience working on rods for St. Croix and future prospects.

Boost your angling skills with Brad and Team Rhino Outdoors in the ultimate guide to Mastering the Grenade. This episode delivers knowledge you won't find anywhere else. Catch more fish, be a better angler, and embrace the joy and thrill of muskie fishing like never before.

Episode 21 - Joe Bucher talks about the Depth Raider

This week I talk to Joe Bucher who is the master mind behind many musky baits but specifically the Depth Raider. We go through the history of Joe Bucher Outdoors, The Struggles of Manufacturing in 2022, and when to choose a straight crank bait vs a jointed one. If you need gear to get ready for chasing these fish in 2023 visit Team Rhino Outdoors (www.teamrhinooutdoors.com). We want to take a minute and thank you all for your support this past year. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Episode 20 - Nick Maltby - Bangarang Custom Baits

In this episode we talk to Nick Maltby from Bangarang Custom Baits. Nick talks about the history of the company, his Soul Searchers and Fr8 Trains, and what to expect from Bangarang yet this fall. As of release day we are expecting a batch of them soon but if you miss out be sure to check them out at Team Rhino Outdoors (www.teamrhinooutdoors.com) and sign up for a back in stock notification. 

Episode 19 - Bryan Wiitala - Mistress Muskie Lures

Finally a new episode of the Team Rhino Outdoors Musky Fishing Podcast. In this episode we talk to Bryan with Mistress Muskie Lures about their 7" Mistress crank bait. We talk about the name Mistress Muskie Lures, the construction, and how it's used both casting and trolling. If you need to get a 7" Mistress for your tackle box visit Team Rhino Outdoors (www.teamrhinooutdoors.com) Thanks for listening and Good Luck on the water.