Muskie Fishing the Collins River Fall Transition

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Instructor: Dwayne Hickey
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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.

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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.

Understanding how muskie use small river systems differently than sprawling reservoirs or Great Lakes environments allows tactics applicable to any similar skinny water fishery. The confined nature means fish position predictably around specific structure types that stand out in otherwise featureless stretches.

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.

Seasonal behavior shifts concentrate fish around rock beds, wood, and grass beds where baitfish stage and current creates ambush opportunities. Reading which features produce during different fall periods determines whether limited water gets fished efficiently.

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.

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User Reviews

Christopher Ray 11.11.2020

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Dwayne Hickey

Dwayne Hickey, a passionate outdoorsman from McMinnville, Tennessee, is a renowned musky fishing guide. He primarily conducts expeditions in Center Hill Lake and Great Falls Reservoir, renowned for its natural bounty. Hickey's expertise extends beyond the Collins River to the Rocky River, Collins River, Caney Fork River, and Calfkiller River on Great Falls Lake. His encyclopedic knowledge of the river ecosystem and his renowned instructional videos reflect his dedication to fostering a deeper understanding of the river ecosystem.

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