Fishing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin is still pretty darn good right now. There aren’t nearly as many anglers on the water as we’ll see heading into mid-to-late November. Many fishermen put the boat away and trade it for a tree stand, but a few die-hards—like several of us here at the Musky Shop—keep chasing open water until ice finally shuts us down.
And let’s be honest: the dream of hooking a giant musky never leaves your mind. There’s just something about a big musky that hooks you for life. I’m thankful every day that God created muskies for us to chase!
Current Water Temperatures in the Minocqua Area
As of mid-November 2025, water temperatures around Minocqua and the Northwoods are sitting in the low 40s down to the high 30s. Classic late-fall conditions that turn muskies on.
Where to Find Late-Fall Muskies Right Now
Muskies are scattered this time of year, but a proven approach is to focus on breaklines. Many fish will relate to primary and secondary breaks, especially if baitfish are nearby. Even if you’re not marking bait, keep working those edges consistently—muskies often stage there regardless.
Don’t Forget the Basins
Be sure to check deeper basins for big pods of baitfish. When you find a large concentration, work your baits right through and over the top of them. That’s prime territory for a trophy to slide in and feed.
Windy Days? Fish the Calm Side
Late season can be windy. If the wind is tolerable, hammer the wind-blown breaklines and bait pods. But if it’s too brutal, don’t hesitate to slide to the protected side of the lake where it’s calmer. Staying warm and comfortable lets you fish longer and more effectively.
Best Time of Day for Late-Fall Muskies
In my experience, the warmest part of the day often produces the best feeding windows this time of year. It’s not a guarantee, but a high percentage of late-season muskies come during that afternoon warm-up.
Casting is Tough – Time to Troll or Drag Suckers
When your arms and hands are freezing, switch to trolling or dragging live suckers. It’s easier on the body and extremely effective in November and December.
Top Late-Season Musky Baits for November 2025
Here are some of our absolute favorite baits right now that are producing big fish:
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Ivan Lures Switchblade – 3 quick-change depth settings and killer action (available in 3 sizes)
View Switchblade 11"
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Grandma Lures 9" and 13" – Classic crankbaits that still crush late-season giants
Grandma 13" | Grandma 9"
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Supernatural Headlocks & Mattlocks – Big profile crankbaits that move serious water
12" Headlock | 12" Mattlock
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Spanky Baits M13 Pro & M9 Pro – Unique wobble with a slight suspend—absolute fish catchers right now
M13 Pro | M9 Pro
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Live Musky Suckers + Quick-Set Rigs – When it’s cold and nasty, nothing beats a big lively sucker
Large Musky Suckers | Smity Quick-Set Rigs
Final Words: Get Out There While You Still Can!
We hope you get the chance to hit the water a few more times this season. The Northern Wisconsin musky season runs all the way until December 31st—plenty of time for that fish of a lifetime.
Always fish as safely as possible and, if you can, bring a friend. Ice-up can happen fast this time of year.
If the Musky Shop team can help you with anything—tackle, locations, or just some encouragement—don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s always our pleasure to serve you.
Tight lines and stay warm!
— The Musky Shop Crew