Skinny water muskie fishing in river systems like the Collins demands simplified approaches because confined spaces concentrate fish around predictable structure. Fall transition increases aggression as cooling water triggers feeding, with muskie positioning around deep holes, rock beds, wood, and feeder creeks where Dwayne Hickey's streamlined six-lure selection provides comprehensive coverage applicable to any small river environment.
Muskie Fishing the Collins River Fall Transition
(00:17:12)
Watch Full Video
View Short Trailer
Instructor:
Dwayne Hickey
Description
/
Review
/
Instructor
Why Does Skinny Water Muskie Fishing Demand a Simplified Approach?
Collins River musky fishing operates in a healthy skinny water environment where deep holes, weed beds, rock beds, and wood create concentrated holding areas in confined spaces. Dwayne Hickey, known as the Godfather of the Collins, has refined his approach by simplifying lure selection and focusing on key features rather than overwhelming presentations in limited water.
How Does Fall Transition Affect Muskie Aggression in River Systems?
Fall season creates increased muskie aggressiveness in river environments as cooling water triggers feeding responses and fish position around high-percentage areas preparing for winter. The Collins River section Hickey frequents demonstrates these patterns through shallow stretches punctuated by deep holes, high banks, feeder creeks, and varied structure.
What Lure Selection Provides Comprehensive Coverage in Skinny Water?
Hickey uses approximately 6 lures for comprehensive coverage, demonstrating that effective musky fishing doesn't require massive tackle selections when presentations match conditions. This simplified approach allows confidence in each lure's application rather than second-guessing choices.
Key skinny water structure includes:
- Deep holes offering thermal refuge and staging areas
- Rock beds creating current breaks and baitfish concentration
- Wood providing vertical structure and ambush points
- Feeder creeks bringing cooler water and food sources
Understanding which lures work specific features allows systematic coverage of productive water.
Login
to leave a review.
User Reviews
Christopher Ray
11.11.2020
0
Dwayne Hickey
Dwayne Hickey is an In The Spread instructor and one of the most knowledgeable southern muskie anglers in the country. Based in McMinnville, Tennessee, he knows the Collins River intimately, from its weed beds and deep holes to how post-spawn muskies position and feed. He is also a lifelong catfisherman who runs jugs, trot lines, and limb lines for channel cats, blues, and flatheads. In his In The Spread videos, Hickey teaches Collins River post-spawn muskie tactics, reading water movement, and turning a follow into a hookup.
Read moreVideos
We Recommend
0