Muskies On Tap

Intro from the movie Hangover " We are baaaaack! We are getting Doug baaaaack!"

E149 - Jeff Hanson on Madison Chain + Spring Hearing Update & Info

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:14:00 GMT

This week there's lots the fellas have to recap plus a great chat with Madison Chain guide Jeff Hanson. Jeff has been fishing the Mad chain since the mid 80s and has that place dialed! We go through some of the beginnings of his fishing, spring tips and the state of the fishery. Afterwards we get a recap of the Master's tourney and the most recent Spring Hearing that Gus attended in Vilas County. Lots of spiciness in this pod so tap in!

We hope you had the chance to get to Thorne Bros Spring Sale! If not, still go and check them out online or if you're in the MN metro area

Cold opener comes from Tommy Boy this week!

E148 - Jimmy Gallant w/ JG Outdoors + Spring Events/Seminars

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:33:00 GMT

This week on the MOT pod we get Jimmy Gallant on from JG Outdoors guide service and YouTube channel to talk all things musky. We cover quite a bit on LOTW and Eagle plus plenty on northern Wisconsin and some spring tactics. Big fish stories are told as well! You know we all love those! Tap in!

Also on the calendar up and coming we have the annual WI DNR conservation congress spring hearings April 13th 6-9pm. f you'd like to vote to rescind the new musky regulation change you must attend IN PERSON to vote. Locations for each county here: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/about/wcc/springhearing

Thorne Bros Annual Spring Sale April 10-12th in-store plus seminars and new video watch parties going on! Online sale April 13-14th as well

Upcoming seminars for Gus:

- April 11th Capital Cities Muskies Inc Fundraiser starting at 9am, seminar starts at 11am located at The Mekong restaurant in McFarland

- April 18th American Marine in Chippewa Falls seminar at 10am

- May 6th Winnebagoland Musky Club seminar at 7pm

https://www.thornebros.com/pages/spring-sale

intro comes from an animated classic: "Barnyard". This is a cow farm... you're gonna have cows outside!!!!

E147 - Bait Hauls + Mr Hammer Customs Himself: Nick Amorose

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 08:44:00 GMT

This week the fellas show off their top 3 baits hauled in from expo season along with a few extra sneaky finds/baits we're pumped to throw. We get up to date with current events and Gus let's everyone know his upcoming seminar schedule. After a ninja trick discussed (and potential new ninja tricks to try) we get on Nick Amorose: the brains and muscle behind Hammer Custom Baits. We discuss the show and future of Hammer Customs

Also, big Spring Sale in person only happening at Thorne Bros April 10-12. If you want to get stocked up for the season on musky, walleye, bass, fly fishing, electronics, etc then I suggest you go!

Upcoming seminars for Gus:

April 6th - Wausau Area Muskies Inc @Dales Weston Lanes 7pm

April 7th - Northwoods Chapter Muskies Inc @Norwood Pines (Minocqua) 6:30pm

April 11th - Capitol Cities Muskies Inc Fundraiser @The Mekong in McFarland 9am (find details to sign up on Capitol Cities Facebook page)

April 18th - American Marine in Chippewa Falls, WI Alumacraft/boat Event

Intro comes from a classic Simpsons bit

E146 - LIVE from the WI Musky Expo + video on YouTube

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 08:30:00 GMT

Welp, here's the live recording in the Hammer Customs booth at the Wisconsin Musky Expo Saturday night. We get a large array of guests on so press that play button and find out who tapped onto the mic that night!

TPB - Bubbles talks about liquorball sandwiches

E145 - Controversial Q&A + Hot Takes Feat. Kyle Friedges

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 08:04:00 GMT

The fellas get some spicy questions in this one! We also get into details of some secret baits to look for at the Wisconsin Musky Expo this weekend March 20-22 that we have not talked about yet! Kyle Friedges from Beyond The 8 Media joins up as a co-host. Tap in!

https://youtube.com/@cabbagedragonmedia?si=0uyZSzYUqNJkMLMw

"The dude abides"

E144 - Jake Smith w/ Smity Baits + MOT March Madness Bracket Challenge

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:23:00 GMT

This week we chat it up with Jake Smith from Smity Baits. We talk about the origin of Smity started by his dad, Russ. Lots of great bait talk on new and old baits from Smity's lineup that we love or are excited to try! We also talk about early season musky strategies and live bait fishing. The fellas also get into details on the upcoming MOT March Madness Bracket Challenge and what's at stake for the winners! Great stuff from amazing brands we love. Gus also dropped a heater of a YouTube video so check that out on Muskies On Tap YouTube channel and smash that subscribe button please!

https://youtube.com/@muskiesontap?si=h7FYRXfydURnnN82

the classic wrap around from Jim Lahey for this weeks intro clip

E143 - Rob Manthei's Epic Podcast

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:03:36 GMT

This week the fellas chop it up with Rob Manthei who is based out of St Germain and owns Fibbers and St Germain Lodge & Resort. We talk about his early days of guiding and filming with John Gillespie. There's also a lot of talk on what changed the musky game for Rob with one being the Red October tube which we go into detail on. Tap in!

Intro comes from Ricky admitting to eating 9 cans of ravioli - everyone knows the first can doesn't count

E142 - Mike Kramer Is Back To Chat About New KBT Baits!

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:07:00 GMT

The MOT crew gets on Mike Kramer this week to share some new baits Kramer Bros Tackle has to offer for 2026 and this weekends Minnesota Muskie Expo. We dive into details on his lineup for when, where, and how to use his baits. He's got a fresh bait lined up for the 2026 season that will be a must cop when it comes out. We hope you enjoy another week of a video format podcast! Tap in!

Intro comes from the show Trailer Park Boys - a MOT favorite - about the scene where Ray does not know the difference between wins and losses in gambling

E141 - WI Musky Expo Bait Preview w/ Rich Reinert and Taylor Flannery: First Pod On Video!

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 08:13:00 GMT

This week the MOT crew gets on Taylor Flannery and Rich Reinert to talk all things WI Musky Expo coming up this March 20-22nd. We show these baits off in a debut of a live recorded podcast presented on YouTube to watch! We also dive deep into how to run certain lures that have been on the market that you won't want to miss like Red October tubes and BamBam swimfins. We hope you enjoy this one and get the chance to watch it on Muskies On Tap YouTube channel, tap in! YouTube link below

https://youtube.com/@muskiesontap?si=dQrgTbLDjCZ5U8Ee

Cold opener comes from a classic Simpsons scene about the name Bort

E140 - Jeremy Smith on Canadian Muskies

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 08:03:00 GMT

This week the fellas get Jeremy Smith on to chat about Canadian Shield lakes. You probably have seen Jeremy all over Lindner's Angling Edge videos from TV and YouTube. He's been able to fish many, many lakes in Sunset Country so of course we are given great musky tips and stories along with it. Tap in!

MN guest = MN movie quote. This week comes from the movie Fargo. A true MN classic.

E139 - Ben Olsen of Thorne Bros

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 07:33:00 GMT

This week the fellas get on Ben Olsen, co-owner of Thorne Bros. Ben has a way of curing the winter blues with the way he tells his stories in this one! We get into details of some giant musky catches whether it was on the fly or conventional and also talk about some old school adventures Ben had on Keyes Outdoors! We also chat on the differences of Stealth and Predator series of custom rods. Another special guest/co-host joins us for the pod so tune in to find out who!!! Tap in!

Dr. Evil gets his wish fulfilled to have sharks with fricken lazerbeams attached to their head.... COOL!!! Cold open comes from Austin Powers: Goldmember

E138 - Joe Bucher

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:04:00 GMT

This week we bring on a very special guest: Joe Bucher. He is a pioneer of many aspects of musky fishing and been through it all from the 70s to today. He created Joe Bucher Tackle, Musky Hunter Magazine, and Fishing with Joe Bucher TV show. On top of these many accolades he also is great at story telling and giving advice! We also briefly mention the new ownership of Joe Bucher Tackle which changed its name back to the original and has exciting stuff coming out in the future! You don't want to miss this one so tap in!

Cold opener comes from the classic Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls

E137 - Kyle Hunsader w/ HunsyTails + New WI Musky Regulation Talk

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 08:01:26 GMT

This week Gus has a chat with Kyle Hunsader, the creator of HunsyTails bucktails. Kyle chats about Chicago show, the new 8/10 banger, and Green Bay stocking/pit tagging. He also is announcing that he will be at the Minnesota Muskie Expo as well as the WI Musky Expo in Wausau. So to all you MN peeps go check out Kyle's booth! Before we get Kyle on, the 3 MOT amigos chit chat on the new regulation changes made to the musky season in WI for 2026. As you can expect, spicy hot takes are made here so you won't wanna miss this weeks episode! Tap in!

This weeks intro comes from one of the fellas greatest comedy movie of all time - The Other Guys. This is right before Allen describes how he became a pimp

E136 - The Story of Mike Keyes

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:52:00 GMT

Mike Keyes comes on the pod to not only drop his story but also some incredible fishing/life advice on the way. Of course there's plenty of stories being told throughout the pod as well, because for Mike it's all about the journey and pursuit of the musky. Dive in and listen to the story of Mike Keyes who has been operating Keyes Outdoors Musky Hunting Adventures for over 26 years. Tap in!

That's why he's the GOAT meme for this weeks intro

E135 - New Year Pod w/ Michael Hanson & Phil Stodola

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:22:00 GMT

The MOT pod is back! We hope everyone had a great holiday break! The crew gets together to catch up and chat on New Years resolutions. Michael Hanson of NW Wisconsin and Phil Stodola of GB hop on the pod to have a good old fashioned winter chop sesh. We hope everyone enjoys it as much as we did recording it! Tap in!

This pod starts with 2 different quotes - 1 from Hot Fuzz "You've got a mustache..... I know" & the other one from A Million Ways to Die in the West on the mustache song. These intro quotes will make sense when Michael and Phil get on the pod!

E134 - Rerun: 2023 PMTT Championship Recap Top Gun Team of the Year - Chippewa Flowage

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:29:00 GMT

Wuddup folks! Thought we stopped the rest of 2025? Think again! Lots of new listeners since we began this pod so decided to give you a rerun of Gus and Max's recap from the PMTT Championship in 2023 on the mighty Chip. The boys bring home some hardware! Tap in!

E133 - Rowan Stamm on the FINAL POD

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:25:07 GMT

The Final Pod*!!!! Join the crew along with Rowan Stamm from Southern WI as they polish the year off with a good old fashioned BS sesh. Some more goals are talked about as well as some solid patterns that worked for Rowan in the 2025 season. Some news in this pod you don't want to miss so tap in!

*final pod of 2025

E132 - Luke from LB Fishing on River Muskies + Catch Up w/ the Fellas

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 08:35:07 GMT

The fellas get on river musky guide Luke Bogdanovic to chop it up on how his season went. Awesome tidbits sprinkled throughout this one so you won't want to miss it! Luke's a down-to-earth guy with a lot of background on Northern WI rivers. At the start the fellas do a little catch up on things, Brian eats pizza, Max talks about good shows to watch and Gus talks about jigging Red Octobers for some reason (probably because this is supposed to be a musky podcast) - tap in!

Another TPB classic scene for this weeks intro

E131 - Jason Summers: Chaos Tackle Originator + PMTT Stories

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 08:25:05 GMT

This week the fellas get to speak with Jason Summers, a well renowned tournament angler who also is the originator of the Medussa rubber lure and Chaos Tackle. Listen in on how that was developed in its early years during the glory years of MN musky fishing. We also get into lots of tournament talk from tips, stories, and more. Tap in!

Intro comes from a certified classic in the movie category as well as USA sports history - Miracle. "That'll get 'em going"

E130 - Will Buhler + Bait MVPs of 2025

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 08:35:05 GMT

The fellas are joined with a fellow Northwoods of Wisconsin guide Will Buhler with Sconnie Guy Adventures. We dive deep into the ways of fall sucker fishing with all you need on harnesses, weighting, and casting tactics for fall muskies. We also get into the nitty gritty on bait talk, specifically bait MVPs of 2025 for all of us. Couple surprises in there so don't miss out and tap in!

This weeks intro needs no explanation. Enjoy!

E129 - LIVE on the Taps & Tackle Pontoon + Central Waters Brewing Co

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:20:06 GMT

Gus takes a drive south to hop in the ultimate pontoon fishing machine with the Taps and Tackle crew - Matt and Jozef plus a special guest Anello from Central Waters Brewing Company. This crew lets it fly all LIVE while musky fishing in the pontoon and tackling some new topics - like beer! Finally we dive deeper than we ever have into the "tap" part of our name which Anello helps with that. Matt and Jozef also chat on the current state of Taps and Tackle brick and mortar, Wisconsin River musky fishing and much more! Tap in!

https://centralwaters.com/

In honor of the 29 lives lost on the SS Edmund Fitzgerald we had to cold open with none other than the Midwest song of November by Gordon Lightfoot himself - The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald

E128 - Lake Vermilion Bender Weekend Recap

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:30:09 GMT

The fellas give a good ol fashioned recap on their bender weekend to Lake Vermilion, MN. The tips, tricks, and tactics behind their successes, findings, and failures are all discussed here. tune in to see how the MOT crew patterned together the big V along with some more updates. Tap in!

Intro comes from Dr. Evil wanting sharks with fricken lazer beams attached to their heads. Honestly a pretty easy, basic request if you ask me

E127 - DKAM Fishing: David Park

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 07:35:06 GMT

This week the fellas chat with David Park from New Jersey who most of you would know as Dkam Fishing on YouTube, TikTok or Instagram. David is well traveled and has caught muskies in numerous states and Canada as well as targeting some of the largest pike this entire continent has to offer. The history of the New Jersey strain of muskies along with the state of NJ musky fishing is covered. We hope you enjoy this one so tap in!

The fellas are also headed to Vermilion!!!

This weeks intro stems off of last week with the discovery of the alley-oop in the movie Semi-Pro

E126 - Ryan Becker: Iowa Muskie Guide Service

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:40:08 GMT

This week Ryan Becker from Iowa Muskie Guide Service hops on the pod to share tons of great information and stories about Iowa and MN muskies. From Mille Lacs to Western MN to Northern Iowa, Ryan has that all covered. Tap in!

Semi-Pro - the discovery of the "alley-oop"

E125 - Kyle Friedges w/ Beyond The 8 YouTube

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:10:08 GMT

This week the fellas get on past guest Kyle to chat about his recent films for his YouTube channel Beyond The 8 and the upcoming Musky Battle this weekend on Leech Lake. Lots packed into this longer format pod so we hope you enjoy it! Tap in and good luck to those getting out fishing this fall yet!

"What are ya lookin at my gut fer?"

E124 - Fall Catch-up + On The Line

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 07:10:09 GMT

This week just the three MOT amigos hop on to do a little fall catch-up and answer some on the line submissions. As always send any in to us! Shoot us a DM to ask how it can be sent. Hope everyone has a fantastic start to their October! Tap in!

The Other Guys Yankee clipper scene

E123 - PMTT Championship Recap + Gregg Thomas Top Gun

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 07:10:09 GMT

The fellas are back to a regular scheduled long formatted, multi-segment podcast for you musky peeps! The beginning Gus and Max describe how Clear Lake treated them from pre fishing to the end of the championship. Then we get on Gregg Thomas where he and his tournament partner Rick won 2025 Top Gun Team of the Year. We discuss how all the events went for him along with the typical GT ninja tricks dished out for everyone. Tap in!

"You're thinkin, Ricky. It's good"

E122 - Clear Lake PMTT Championship Preview

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 02:50:20 GMT

PMTT Championship Preview!!!!! Woohoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

E121 - September Update + On The Line's w/ Clayton Spiess

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:38:05 GMT

This week the gents get on a frequented guest, co-host basically, of the pod - Clayton Spiess! We get to catch up and see what Clayton's been up to. We discuss his most recent LOTW trip along with some great (and spicy) On The Line submissions. Tap in!

"I got 26 days left, I plan on playing ball hockey every day" - Ricky

E120 - Shallow Water Push Tactics w/ Taylor Flannery + On The Line

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 07:00:37 GMT

The September super shallow water musky movement has commenced... and on this episode we chat on this heavily! We bring special guest/co host Taylor Flannery of Musky Guarantee Guide Service on the line to help us talk through tactics and MOT-lines sent in by some listeners. There might have been a drink of choice segment sprinkled randomly too! We got some great musky movements going on so get out there and get fishing! Tap into this one!

Been awhile since we've used a Kicking and Screaming movie quote so please enjoy this weeks cold opening

E119 - Fall Fishing Talk w/ David Dykowski AKA findingfish906

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 07:10:08 GMT

This week we get David Dykowski back on to chop it up on some fall muskies. Although it still isn't technically fall, we are greeted with fall weather and muskies eating fall baits. Temps are cooling and muskies are chowing. Day to day changing a lot, the fellas explain in this one how to stay versatile and diverse with bait and spot choice. Tap in!

Eastbound and Down outtakes again because they're classic

E118 - Bender Weekend & Cass/Bemidji PMTT Recaps

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 05:20:08 GMT

Recap Pod!!! The fellas are back together to recap their bender weekend as well as the recent Cass/Bemidji PMTT. Lots of ups and downs throughout the past few weeks. We chat on all you need to know about up north shenanigans + current bite patterns as well as the struggles Cass Lake brought upon Gus and Max. We want to congratulate Alex McLean and Ryan Becker on their 1st place finish at Cass/Bemidji PMTT! Tap in!

Finally another Trailer Park Boys quote - a J Roc classic

E117 - Bemidji/Cass Lake PMTT Preview

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 03:27:38 GMT

The MOT crew kicks off PMTT week with a mega pod full of familiar faces and a new one! We bring the heat, chop it up on pre fishing tactics, and all things tournaments. Crack a cold one, tap in and we hope you enjoy this round table PMTT preview.

Fargo quote this week to keep it local - Coen classic - ohhhhhh yaaaaaaaa. Ya? Ya

E116 - Thorne Bros Mega Pod w/ Tucker Swanson + Jake Erickson

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 05:49:56 GMT

This week we sit down and have a good ol fashioned musky chat with Tucker, Jake, and another special in-house guest Austin Wiggerman. We get to dive into what Thorne Bros has to offer! Lots of great stories throughout this pod about recent trips everyone has taken plus some juicy northwoods lake choice questions answered. More On The Line's get answered as well which takes us all over the place! Tap in!

"Oh but it looks good on you though!" A very classic line from the movie Caddyshack, an all time great

E115 - The Tinner Boys: Bryce Groves & Baylor Short

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 08:34:51 GMT

Sitting in the peak heat of the musky season, the fellas have a chat with Bryce Groves and Baylor Short, AKA The Tinner Boys. These are two young anglers from MN that share a passion for the sport of musky fishing as well as both working in the field of fishing. Both are in the making of learning exponential amount of information about muskies and fisheries health. We also get a bunch of call-ins on the MOTline bringing up some fiery hot topics that are as hot if not hotter than the recent weather. Crack an ice cold soda pop and tap in!

With Happy Gilmore 2 just hitting the scene, had to use a Happy quote again. Still had to use the original... well, because it's way better. Enjoy!

E114 - Kamden Glade Fisheries Specialist for MN DNR

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 07:20:08 GMT

This week the fellas chat with Kamden from the MN DNR on topics like Lake Vermilion stocking, PIT tags, dietary studies and much more. We get very in depth with this one so don't miss out on it!

Another Benchwarmers quote that fits well with the fish puke study

E113 - Austin Wiggerman on Summer Muskies

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:20:09 GMT

This week the fellas get Austin back on the pod to discuss how his spring went in Northern IL and Southern WI as well as a successful trip to Northern WI recently. Lots of talk on bite windows, boat positioning tactics, blades, clear water and so much more! If you want to stay up with the bite and listen to a good ol chop shesh then tap in!

a good blooper from the show Parks & Recreation

E112 - The Mighty Lake St. Clair

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 07:40:18 GMT

This week we bring a special episode recorded on the road back from a Lake St. Clair trip Gus made along with 4 other buddies: Kyle Hunsader, Clayton Spiess, Taylor Flannery and Jamie DeGroot. The fellas went on a trolling escapade with Captain Jason Quintano from Fins and Grins Muskie Charters. They discuss their travels and the day they had on the water... lots of new and exciting stuff went down! Tap in the hear all about it!

"Must be steroids in macaroni!" - from the Benchwarmers movie

E111 - 4th of July Musky Update

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 02:56:52 GMT

Welcome to the America's Birthday pod with just the 3 MOT amigos on all together up north in Eagle River for the weekend. The fellas chop it up with Gus to check in on how the bite has been going and all the big fish being caught in his boat. We also share some wild 4th of July stories from years past. Hope everyone has a fun and safe holiday weekend! Tap in

"Now watch this drive"

E110 - Eagle River/Three Lakes PMTT Recap + On The Line

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 08:15:52 GMT

Gus and Max have now wrapped up PMTT stop #2 at the Eagle River and Three Lakes Chains in Northern Wisconsin. The fellas talk through their decisions and why they were made - the good and the bad. We also catch up with On The Line submissions from listeners. Tap in!

People are starting to murmur....

-- The Other Guys

E109 - Doug Wegner Fishing

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 08:00:28 GMT

This week the fellas get together and chop it up with the man himself, Doug Wegner. We cover a very wide range of topics along with currently what Doug is up to. We also have another special guest on to add a new dynamic to this weeks episode. This is a good ol fashioned chop sesh so we hope you tap in and enjoy!

Had to start the intro with a couple different "Doug" themed quotes. We hope you enjoyed it lol

E108 - GIANT WI Musky Tales + Taps And Tackle Co

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 07:40:15 GMT

This weeks pod is action packed with multiple segments and guests. We kickstart it with the entire story of Gus and his Dad's big musky day with a special appearance of Papa Mantey himself! Then we have an amazing discussion with Matt ad Jozef from Taps and Tackle in Stevens Point, WI. They have some exciting renovations to the tackle and beer shop they run. We also tackle the topic of pit tags, musky movements, musky leagues, and their involvement with some of Gillespie's Waters and Woods episodes! You don't want to miss this week so tap in!

This weeks quote comes from the infamous radar scene from the Austin Powers movie series

E107 - MN Opener Preview w/ Alex McLean + On The Line

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 07:20:08 GMT

This week we preview the long awaited MN musky opener on Saturday with our good friend Alex McLean. We cover the bases of what's going on with the bite and conditions as well as check the weekends weather. Naturally, night fishing is discussed and great tips are shared. Recently Gus spent some time on Green Bay after some big fish so be sure to listen as he spills the beans on that! Goodluck to those fishing MN! Tap in!

"get busy livin' or get busy dyin'" - from one of the greatest movies of all time: The Shawshank Redemption

E106 - Northern WI Opener + Green Bay Recap w/ Clayton Spiess

Thu, 29 May 2025 06:26:24 GMT

This week the fellas break down their musky opener in Vilas/Oneida counties of Wisconsin and what got it done for them. We also get on Clayton Spiess with Thistle Dew Outdoor Adventures on to chat about Green Bay and how the bite was down there. Tons of info sprinkled throughout this one so tap in!

We hope everyone had a fun and successful opener!

"I'm not sure what to do with my hands"

E105 - Northern WI Opener Preview w/ Bryan Schaeffer

Thu, 22 May 2025 07:10:10 GMT

The MOT crew is back and ready to roll for the 2025 Northern WI musky opener this coming weekend. The fellas get on none other than Bryan Schaeffer to chop it up all things opener. We tackle opener weather, lake conditions, temps, baits, areas to fish, boat control, On The Line submissions and many more. We wish the best of luck and safety out on the water this weekend! Go get 'em!

"Harry, I took care of it!"

Classic

Quote comes from Dumb and Dumber - a must watch

E104 - Iowa Musky Madness w/ Matt Vavroch & Taylor Flannery

Thu, 15 May 2025 07:40:08 GMT

This weeks podcast features special guests Matt and Taylor. Both have been on the podcast and comfortably took over co-hosts/guests for the week. We chat heavily on the recent trip Gus took with Taylor staying at Matt's to fish Iowa post-spawn muskies. The fellas got it done but took some specific patterns to seal the deal. We dive heavily into everything you need to know for post spawn muskies. Action packed with hefty amounts of info in this one! Tap in!

If you haven't already, check out Matt's YouTube channel Matt Vavroch Fishing. It highlights Iowa, Northern Wisconsin, Matt's travels and many, many new musky baits in the industry.

And of course, Taylor Flannery with Musky Guarantee Guide Service - check out his Facebook page and everything he has to offer!!!

"Make yourself a dang quesadilla!"

E103 - JVR On Early Season Tactics + "On the Line"

Thu, 08 May 2025 07:40:08 GMT

This week the fellas get JVR back on the podcast who is an extremely knowledgeable and well rounded angler for all species, especially muskies and walleyes in the Northwoods. He breaks down precisely how this year has been shaping up with ice off, water temps and everything you need to know about the musky spawn. We even break into opener tactics already and per usual - get side tracked - right into some tournament talk! The fellas also chat in the opening minutes on some recent Livescope/FFS news in the industry. Couple listeners on the line sprinkled in as well. Tap in!

Brick Tamland just can't figure out the green screen... anyways, currently on weather watch for Northern WI musky opener!

E102 - Cave Run PMTT Recap LIVE from the Truck

Thu, 01 May 2025 07:40:14 GMT

Gus and Max LIVE from the truck ride home from Cave Run PMTT with Brian on the call. With it all fresh in their minds, the fellas bring the energy and talk entirely how they took a tough pre-fishing into an 8th place finish. Max got his first Kentucky fish and jigging! Lots of beans spilled in this one, don't want to miss it so tap in!

Season is upon us now. Don't wait to book a trip with Gus!

Nate from Pittsburgh with some help on the intro

And some Waylon Jennings - Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way for the closer

E101 - Live From Cave Run PMTT Preview

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 06:30:13 GMT

This week we sit down live down in Cave Run, Kentucky with Gus, Max, Clayton and Nick who are all gearing up for the first PMTT of the 2025 season. The fellas chop it up on current conditions and everything about fishing tournaments. The good, the bad, the ugly. If you're fishing the PMTT this weekend we all wish you luck! Tap in!

Ladies and gentlemen...... START YOUR ENGINES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

E100 - Tadpole Is Back!

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 04:27:45 GMT

The fellas get none other than Todd "Tadpole" Powell back on the pod for this special episode. Todd is a legend of Eagle River, WI and has unlimited stories to be told. We dive right into it and Tadpole doesn't hold back! Go mix yourself a signature Tadpole drink, kick back, and tap into the MOT-crews 100th episode. Cheers!

Nantz with a masterful call during Rory McIlroy's Masters victory in a playoff for this special weeks intro

E99 - On The Line, Viral Videos, FFS talk & More

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:20:11 GMT

This podcast with the 3 MOT amigos gets a lil spicy. We dive into voicemails from the listeners to see what they got to say while occasionally keeping up with current events. We read Facebook comments, chat on viral fishing videos and talk a little on the state of FFS in the musky industry. Tap into this certified yap-fest!

The intro this week starts with a Hot Rod quote and from there.... we will leave it at that lol

E98 - Adam Mueller w/ TopLine Baits

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 07:50:08 GMT

This week we bring on Adam Mueller with TopLine Baits. The fellas not only chatted it up on muskies and baits, but also on our shared passion for hockey. Got to hear about Canadian Juniors along with some rowdy stories. For TopLine Baits, Adam has a very impressive lineup of dive-n-rise, twitch baits, crankbaits, hard bodies tubes, and is always coming up with new ideas! We chat about some trolling tips and Great Lakes fishing in this one. Tap in!

A very fitting quote this week since we talked about hockey fights a lot so it's a quote from the movie Goon!

E97 - On The Line w/ Taylor Flannery

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 08:00:20 GMT

This week the MOT gents get together with Taylor Flannery of Musky Guarantee Guide Service to chop it up with some On The Line submissions. We reflect on WI Musky Expo, baits we're looking forward to using, and chat on the upcoming Watersmeet Musky Expo this weekend (details below). We appreciate all those sending in voice memos/voicemails to get on the show and can submit them at any time! As always, thanks for tapping in and we're all getting pumped for the 2025 open water season!

Watersmeet Musky Expo March 29th (Saturday) from 9am to 6pm at Northern Waters Casino Event Center. Many great speakers including Taylor and lots of vendors to get baits, terminal tackle and book guide trips!

Ah, Monty Python strikes again - "tis but a scratch"

"Just a flesh wound"

E96 - Big Fish Stories Live from the Wisconsin Musky Expo

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 08:50:07 GMT

The three MOT amigos put on a live podcast right out of the Hammer Customs/MOT/Sug's Fishing Guide Service booth at the Wisconsin Musky Expo. We had a fantastic time getting on numerous guests to chat on big fish stories, many of which were first time guests! We enjoyed our time at the expo and thank everyone who stopped by to support and say hey! If you want to immerse yourself in this one we recommend a cold beverage to tap in.

"Bring out your dead!" - Monty Python and the Holy Grail again this week. Every scene in this movie is quotable. You might be seeing lots of these in the coming weeks. "We'll see ya Thursday!"

E95 - WI Musky Expo: Hammer Customs + BamBam + Big Action

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 08:00:20 GMT

Go get me a (Sugs) Juice Box!!!! From HunsyTails! Wisconsin Musky Expo this weekend and we couldn't be more excited! We have a special pod jam packed with Hammer Customs very own Nick Amorose, Brady Martz from BamBam, Brendon Rurak w/ Big Action, and bonus guest Clayton Spiess! Be sure to tap in not only to the pod but checking out the show!

Clayton and I will be speaking Friday at 4:30pm - The Great (Musky) Debate!

Muskies On Tap will have a booth right next to Hammer Customs and HunsyTails with a full lineup with merchandise! This is your best opportunity at exclusive gear and show prices! Check the website in the coming weeks for any merch leftover to be available online:

"My name is Rod, and I like to party" - Rod from Hot Rod

E94 - MN Muskie Expo Mashup: Musky Addicts & Kramer Bros Tackle

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 09:00:14 GMT

This week we bring two special guests on to prepare for the MN Muskie Expo this weekend. We get both Jon Best of Musky Addicts and Mike Kramer of Kramer Bros Tackle on this week. Both bait makers have some amazing new baits and colors to bring to this years show so we highly recommend stopping by their booths this weekend! Looks like it'll be an amazing show and can't wait! Gus and Max will be on foot this weekend at the expo so be sure to say hey and ask about merch!

We also had some more great call ins for this weeks "On The Line" segment so be sure to tap into those. Keep on sending them in we love it!

"What also floats in water? ....... A DUCK!" - Monty Python and the Holy Grail... a staple in the comedy movie genre

E93 - The Three MOT Amigos Yapathon

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:40:06 GMT

We interrupt our regular winter scheduled guest program with a full on yapathon put on by yours truly: Gus, Max and Brian. The fellas get a few MOT listeners "On the Line" to hear some hilarious stories and great questions. Afterwards we finally chat upon our 2025 year resolutions and goals while also reflecting on the previous years. Tune in to see if we were able to fulfill 2024's goals and if 2025's are attainable or not!

Couple musky expos to watch out for that the MOT crew will be attending:

Minnesota Muskie Expo March 7-9th: @Warner Coliseum at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds

Wisconsin Musky Expo March 14-16th: @Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center

ISCCW Musky Expo (Watersmeet, MI) March 29th: @Northern Waters Casino

"Hwhy I'm saying hwhat hwhat hway?" - Rod

E92 - Brad Hoppe w/ Musky Mayhem Tackle

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:00:19 GMT

Brad Hoppe, a fishing industry mogul, joins the MOT crew to chat about where Musky Mayhem started to where it is now. Brad knocks it out of the park with this one giving great stories and insight into the bucktail we know and love: The Cowgirl. American made! Brad also is the host of Mayhems 10k Casts with Chase Gibson who we recently had. The start and outlook of the show is also discussed. We give a quick recap on the Milwaukee Muskie Expo Brad and Gus just got back from. Thank you to everyone that participated and showed their support to the musky industry! Lots to unpack in this one so buckle up and tap in!

Watch for merch and YouTube video updates on our socials (Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube @Muskies On Tap)

Good ol' Tommy Boy reference this week with the Zalinsky commercial, the auto parts king!

E91 - Musky Filled Conversation w/ Mr. Bryan Schaeffer

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:30:12 GMT

Bryan Schaeffer with Schaeffer Outdoors Guide Service was kind enough to join us on a cold Wisconsin evening. We covered most things under the sun with musky fishing. We even talked some Wisconsin opener tactics and rivers! Gus will be at the Milwaukee Muskie Expo in West Bend (Washington County Fairgrounds) this coming weekend Feb 14-16. He will have his own booth with MOT merch and information on Sug's Fishing Guide Service. Gus is also speaking Friday afternoon at 4pm! Hope everyone is staying warm and sane this winter. 3 more months till musky season in the north! Tap in!

Better health commercial with White Goodman to kick our butts into high gear to workout and prep for hucking pounders and husky dusas this season. Here at Globo Gym we're better than you and we know it

E90 - Mike Conklyn Lures + WI Musky Expo Preview

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:30:15 GMT

This week we get on the man behind the infamous Glitch and Pedigree glidebaits, Mike Conklyn. Mike crafts each and every bait he makes by hand, balancing and testing them to give you the best possible custom glide bait. He also will be showcasing at this years WI Musky Expo a new lure: the Pacifier. This is a sweet take on a dive n rise bait we advise to check out! On top of Mike getting into all the specifics about how Conklyn Lures started and got to where it is now, special guest Rich Reinert is also on the call. He discusses all to be offered this year at the WI Musky Expo in Wausau (Rothschild) March 14-16th. Some exciting booths and speakers this year to look forward to so tap in!

An absolute classic of a cold opener from Chris Tucker in Rush Hour 3. Who are you? I am Yu

E89 - Jordan Weeks w/ the WI DNR

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 10:20:07 GMT

This week we have Jordan Weeks on from the WI DNR who has been a part of the musky program (musky team leader) in the state for around 25 years and has the title Mississippi River supervisor as well. Not only does Jordan provide the science but also is an avid musky angler in the sport for over 30 years. With his passion for muskies we dive into may topics tonight which include stocking, musky spawning, musky mortality, handling, hot water studies, barotrauma, and many more. This was quite possibly the most educational podcast we have put together and that was all thanks to Jordan. Tap in!

"We gotta get off this rock Chuck, get back to the mainland"

This weeks cold open comes from the famous ending dialogue between Chuck and Teddy in the movie Shutter Island. Absolute classic

E88 - Ayden Froeschle Keepin' It Fresh

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 10:20:06 GMT

This week the MOT crew gets on Ayden Froeschle, a young musky angler with some fresh takes in this episode! Ayden grew up in the Hudson area fishing the St. Croix and Western Wisconsin. His musky bug started in Canada and now has taken him to many different big fish waters in MN like Leech Lake. Ayden's tournament career, although short (so far), is highly impressive breaking out multiple wins in the last few years. Tap in!

New merch incoming!!!!!

Lots of fresh things on the MOT agenda this week including a fresh intro. The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Workaholics intro "Ya gotta be fresh", and So Fresh, So Clean by Outkast. What a lineup!

E87 - 10,000 Casts & Laughs w/ Chase Gibson

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 10:10:15 GMT

This week we have a chat with West Virginia native, Chase Gibson. He is now a very well traveled guide that is also making a mark in the TV side of musky fishing. Himself and Brad Hoppe host the show Mayhem's 10,000 Casts that airs weekly on KOTV and YouTube this winter. As we dive into that we also look at how Chase found himself in MN and now specifically Leech Lake. Lots of great tips, thoughts on electronics and bait suggestions in this episode as well as so many stories & tournament talk. We fit in as much as we could here and can't wait to get Chase back on in the future. Tap in!

This weeks intro features the infamous scene from Jaws where Mr. Brody takes down jaws himself. "Smile you son of a b-POW"

E86 - Spotlight: Steve Genson & His 25 Years of Guiding

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 10:10:06 GMT

We welcome everyone to the new year with this fantastic chat we had with Steve Genson who is celebrating his 25th season of guiding! Not only that but we dive deep into some certified classic stories on the early days of Keyes Outdoors, guiding and tournament fishing. Steve guides primarily the greater Hayward area of WI nowadays, but has acquired extensive knowledge from all over the musky range from filming and tournament fishing. From start to finish you can hear the passion Steve still holds for the sport. Don't want to miss out on this one so tap in!

Merch update is in the outro so stick around to hear the news on that! Show season is nearing and the MOT crew is brewing some great stuff up!

This weeks intro comes from a classic TV show and favorite of the MOT crew - It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Mac and Dennis come up with the great idea of Paddy's Dollars but at the same time do not know how this idea works. It keeps the money moving. In a circle.

E85 - A Very Merry Hunksmas & A Happy MOT New Year!

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:33:37 GMT

The MOT crew thanks The Musky Hunks podcast for inviting us to join their secret santa gift exchange over the holidays. Huuuuge shooouuut ooouuuttt to them as well as Kyle Friedges (Beyond The 8 on YT), Matt Vavroch (Matt Vavroch Fishing on YT), and Tyler Andrews aka the Musky Guru (Not A Musky Podcast on all podcasting platforms). Had a great time and be sure to check out all of their content!

Gus and Brian talk over some end of the year updates prior to the gift exchange so listen in to get the scoop! Gus has a few upcoming events he will be attending:

January 7th - speaking at the C&R Musky Club Meeting @7pm at the Old 41 Saloon in Neenah, WI

January 18th-19th - Gus will be attending the Chicago Musky Expo!

Book now as Gus's 2025 calendar is filling up!

SANTA!!!!!!!!!!!!! I know him. I know him

- Buddy the Elf

E84 - December Muskies w/ Rowan Stamm + Year In Wrap Up!

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 10:10:16 GMT

Welcome to the 2024 season wrap up of Muskies On Tap along with special guest Rowan Stamm out of Southern Wisconsin. Rowan is a river specialist who is also well equipped to take on any lake from the deep south to the north like Northern Wisco and MN. We had Rowan on last year in December and continued our chat on late season muskies and rivers. We share a lot of insightful tips along with some 2024 woes and struggles. There was plenty to take away with this past season and I hope everyone is prepared to take on 2025! Tap in for a great end of season podcast and we will see ya next year!

Gus has opened his 2025 calendar and is now taking trips for smallmouth (April - June) and muskies (June - November). Get the hot dates around the good moon phases while you can!

Also, if you get where this weeks quote is from you get bonus points! Thank you all for making 2024 truly a season to remember. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!!!

E83 - Musky Strategy w/ Rich Reinert

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:10:07 GMT

This week we bring back Rich Reinert to talk about musky strategy, specifically in the fall timeframe. There were some trends statewide that Gus and Rich connected on to scheme up a different way looking at fall fishing. Along with more of the philosophy side of fishing, Rich sprinkles in a couple bait mods and nuggets. After catching up about recent fishing events we move onto expo talk and braided fishing line - specifically FINS. Rich keeps everyone in the loop with the news there that you don't want to miss out on. Many new baits to look forward to at the WI Musky Expo in Wausau this coming year!

Merchandise and Gus's guide info link:

This weeks intro comes from an early seen in the first Anchorman movie where Ron Burgundy has some very, very important news to tell you...

E82 - Back w/ Gregg Thomas: The Musky Fishing Wizard

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 10:10:09 GMT

No introduction needed here as we bring back Gregg Thomas after our Thanksgiving break. Gregg gives his run down on how his fall went and quickly turns into a mega deep dive into fall fishing entirely. We know it's all over for us in the north as seasons end and ice forms, but don't let that deter the fact Gregg drops some incredible knowledge bombs for you to jot some notes to. Sit back, unwind, and tap in to hear the wizard himself

This weeks intro comes from the ever famous Harry Potter series. Right from the beginning of the Sorcerer's Stone (or Philosopher's Stone) when Hagrid breaks the ever so quotable phrase: "Yer a wizard Harry"

Then we end it with Hedwig's Theme to get everyone in the Holiday mood

E81 - Ryan McMahon: MN Muskies & Sucker Fishing Late Fall Tactics

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:10:06 GMT

This week the fellas get on Minnesota musky guide Ryan McMahon to discuss late fall tactics, progression of musky fishing, MN metro fishing, and sucker fishing. Ryan has a lot of passion for the sport and you can really tell from listening to his stories and fishing tactics. Tap in to hear Ryan's story and pick up on some great sucker fishing tips!

MOT hats are in stock! Link below

Another Happy Gilmore quote today: Happy and Bob Barker get in a fist fight after being in dead last at the Pro-Am

E80 - Austin Wiggerman Is Back! Southern WI + MN Musky Chat

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:10:09 GMT

This week we bring back Austin Wiggerman to sit down and chat about his season up until this point. We cover a wide variety of topics along the way like mid-summer, key baits on the season, turnover, water temps for fish movement, live bait, and many more. Summer through fall we covered it all!

MOT Hats available for sale on the website below!

Intro comes from Happy Gilmore in the opening scene of his round with Bob Parker and a heckler in the crowd messing with Happy's swing

E79 - Kevin Cochran On Northern MN Muskies

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 10:10:06 GMT

This week the MOT crew gets to chat with Kevin Cochran, Bemidji area musky specialist. Kevin has been at these monster MN fish guiding for just over two decades and consistently keeps the big fish pics coming. We have a full on discussion about area pressure, electronics, stocked vs native fish, and of course big fish stories.

Kevin also devotes part of his time for running his brand Headwaters Hat Co. which has some of the coolest hat/logo designs in the game. Be sure to check them out!

Tap in and be sure to listen to the end for a special announcement!

https://headwatershatcompany.com/

This weeks intro comes from the one and only Dumb and Dumber when Harry and Lloyd get a chance to mingle with the laid back country folk. Enjoy!

E78 - WI Musky Battle Recap w/ Alex McLean & Tyler Schlabsz

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 09:00:30 GMT

This week the MOT crew is joined by special guests Alex McLean and Tyler Schlabsz from MN to recap the 2024 WI Musky Battle. We discuss how the battle went, the goal of the battle, and where it might take us in the years to come. Although the bite was tough for all, fish were still caught, some lost, friendships made, and good times had. It was an honor to be apart of this and look forward to the future of the battle!

Congrats to this years battle winning team: Kyle Weeks and Adam Stark!

Thank you to Kyle Friedges and Dan Scriver for putting on a great event hosted by Buckatabon Lodge in Conover, WI

This weeks intro comes from "Old School" as Frank the Tank takes a tranquilizing dart to the jugular. That was awesome!

E77 - WI Musky Battle Preview w/ Kyle Friedges & Tyler Eggenberger

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 09:00:30 GMT

This week we are joined by Kyle Friedges and Tyler Eggenberger to preview the 2024 Wisconsin Musky Battle taking place in Vilas County, WI. We discuss what the musky battle is and hear some stories from past events. We chat about how the bites been as of late in the Northwoods and what to expect for this upcoming weekend. Best of luck to all that are getting out on the water or in the woods this weekend. Cheers.

E76 - Fall Q&A Mashup w/ the MOT Crew

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 09:30:08 GMT

This week the fellas sit down and answer questions sent in by the listeners mostly on fall fishing. We break down the go-to lures, types of spots to fish in certain conditions, turnover, fall warm ups, and many more fall topics. Gus gives an update on the northwoods conditions including lake temps, turnover, size lakes to target, etc. Tap into this one and good luck to those on the water or in the woods this weekend. Cheers!

E75 - Nate Osfar on Tournament Fishing + Fall Fishing Tactics

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:30:15 GMT

This week the MOT crew gets on special guest Nate Osfar to chat a bunch about his successes in musky tournament scene for almost 25 years. We start from the beginning with some of Nate's first tournaments and how that shaped him as a fisherman today. We barely scratch the surface on the countless stories he has from these events. We also get some of his expertise on fall fishing tactics. Brushing up on when to target certain systems and at what depth fish should be based upon the weather pattern. This pod is filled with tons of great nuggets to pick up on so tap in!

As the great Reese Bobby once said: "If you ain't first, you're last!"

E74 - PMTT Championship at the Eagle River Chain Recap

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:15:05 GMT

The MOT crew hops on for a recap of the PMTT Championship that just went down on the Eagle River Chain of Lakes. Gus and Max along with the other 36 boats were put to the test of some of the hardest early fall conditions one could draw up. Massive heat wave reaching mid 80s air temp, zero wind, zero clouds, water temps changing 5-8 degrees per day. It was a battle. In here we chat about what went down from pre fishing up until the end of the tournament with tactics and timing being of the main discussion. When it was all said and done, Gus and Max were able to close out their 2024 PMTT season with a 2nd place finish for Top Gun Team of the Year. Another fantastic and fun season and look forward to seeing everyone again in the future! Thank you to all for listening/watching along this year. Tap in!

Another week of our favorite motivational speaker, Mr Matt Foley. Enjoy!

E73 - Luke Bogdanovic w/ LBfishing + PMTT Championship Preview

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:30:17 GMT

This week we have fellow northwoods musky guide Luke Bogdanovic out of the Price county region of Northern Wisconsin to chat on some river and lake muskies. Luke has an incredible passion for fishing and shows that with his down to earth nature and pursuit of the freshwater phantom beast that lives within our rivers and lakes. We chat from rivers of his area to lakes and the mighty Bay of Green. For those looking for river float trip for muskies or smallmouth please hit Luke up to get on some phenomenal fishing!

The MOT crew also talks on the recent local tournament Gus was in and the preview to the 2024 PMTT Championship on the Eagle River Chain of Lakes. Lots packed into this one so tap in!

Hope you enjoy another week of Matt Foley (Chris Farley SNL - and we ain't done yet) worlds worst/best motivational speaker

"Well ladee-fricken-da"

E72 - Taylor Flannery: Muskies Are Guaranteed In This Episode!

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:30:15 GMT

This week we bring back Taylor Flannery for a checkup on how his summer has been going and what's been working for him. We also dive into the current conditions we are dealt with and what to be looking for on the water during the incoming cooldowns we're getting in the northwoods of Wisconsin. Lots of bait talk in this one as the entire MOT crew + Taylor reflect on bait MVPs of the summer and the bait LVPs (Least Valuable Playa's). We also chat on some new videos Taylor has been putting out to the public on YouTube and socials on some great tactics for cast back baits as well as spot on musky safety/release tips to help keep the resource around to be shared by all. We hope y'all enjoy this chat as much as we did so tap in!

Matt Foley (Chris Farley) on the opener from the classic snl skit. It's only the beginning for this one... so many quotes to use yet...

E71 - Tyler Andrews On Canadian Muskies: Guru 4.0

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:30:29 GMT

This week we bring back a very special guest: Tyler Andrews aka the musky guru. He's one of our top reoccurring guests and always knows how to bring the heat. He's been up to a few new things this season that we all break down in the podcast. His new podcast that he hosts himself called "Not A Musky Podcast" podcast is a well put together show that includes guests from fishing to hunting and everything that bridges these sports together. We also chat on some Canadian adventures Tyler has been on this year. This podcast is jam packed with lots of great stories, fishing tactics, and deep dives into thought provoking topics of the fishing industry like fishing pressure and its effects. We hope you enjoy our fixins and tap in!

https://open.spotify.com/show/4KAOPkMBIEPsf1ISSjX5sw?si=7776bdb6b7034688

E70 - Mike Kramer w/ Kramer Bros Tackle

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:30:22 GMT

This week the MOT crew gets together to chat with MN guide and bait maker Mike Kramer. We discuss the early days of bait making and how the revolution blades came about along with the ever so popular woodtick. We also have a discussion on more hay day of MN musky fishing back in the early to late 2000's. There's lots of great stories in here so you don't want to miss out!

The MOT crew also talks about local reports of current conditions, a recent BIG catch and some fresh news in the fishing industry. This is another jam packed pod with lots of great info so kick back and tap in!

"My back's broke.... spinal" - Brian, probably

E69 - Minnetonka PMTT Recap Featuring 1st Place Team Clayton Spiess and Nick Amorose

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 09:30:25 GMT

This week we feature our most recent guests back because they just took home the dub at the PMTT Late Summer Showdown on Lake Minnetonka!!!! Congrats to Clayton Spiess and Nick Amorose for bring home the big check by boating 3 beautiful muskies on Tonka. We discuss the entire story behind how Clayton and Nick got it done from the lowest of lows to the highest of highs. You won't want to miss this one!

The MOT crew then chops it up on the experience Gus and Max had at Tonka and how they managed to capitalize on some bites to secure another top 5 finish in a PMTT qualifier. This long format podcast is jam packed with stories, catches, tips, tactics, pre fishing talk, and tourney fishing strategy of everything that went right and wrong. We hope everyone enjoys this one and have a great Labor Day weekend!!!

Tap in!

Clayton Spiess - Thistle Dew Outdoor Adventures

Nick Amorose - Hammer Customs lures

"In the ghetto, in the ghettoooooo" - Cartman

E68 - Late Summer Musky Bender Recap + Minnetonka PMTT Preview

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 09:30:29 GMT

The MOT crew hops on to chop it up about a stellar weekend of musky fishing together in the northwoods. Combo of pre August full super moon + great weather systems rolling through made for action packed fishing. All the details are spilled out in this one as well as talking through Tonka PMTT and the recent National Championship Musky Open held in Eagle River. Special guest appearances from Clayton & Nick so grab a cold one and tap in!

E67 - Gregg Thomas Is Back + Musky Bender Weekend Preview

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:36:25 GMT

The fellas are all up in the northwoods together to kick off a good ole fashion musky hunt. We talk about current conditions and how the bites been. Our candle lit interview this week with Gregg Thomas covered a variety of topics from his season in Canada to the origin story of the Dyin' Dawg. We want to wish everyone the best of luck who is fishing in the National Musky Championship and MMT this weekend. Hope to see some big fish pictures by the end of the weekend. Tap in and tight lines.

E66 - August Update w/ MOT Crew + Big Fish Chatter

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 04:45:06 GMT

The MOT crew is back together for another mid summer chop sesh. August update for northwoods of Wisconsin is discussed along with some cold snap tactics for the rest of the month. The crew also talks on some recent large fish shown on social media that's been circling around. On top of all this a little bit of Green Bay muskies is discussed as well. Tap in!

E65 - Mid Summer Northwoods Chop Sesh

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 09:00:45 GMT

This week we have a good ole fashion chop shesh about Summer Muskies. Our good friend Clayton was nice enough to sit in as a co host for Brian this week and he fills us in on his latest trip to Vermilion. We talk on a few of Gus’s recent trips including a big Wisco greenie that hit the bag and how he’s holding up during the thick of guide season. Tight lines everyone and tap in!

E64 - Muskies Around The Horn: Michael Hanson, Phil Stodola & Kyle Hunsader Chat On Northwoods Adventure

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 12:11:37 GMT

The MOT crew gets on a full line of guests to go around the horn and highlight a fishing trip that Phil Stodola, Kyle Hunsader and their good friend Jamie went on with Michael Hanson up in NW Wisconsin. Although this was the main objective, as you may have guessed this podcast goes derails all over the place and includes a "would you rather" segment that had some HOT n spicy takes. Muskies were totally talked about here.

Tap in and crack a cold one because it's going to be a hot one this weekend!

E63 - Clayton Spiess Talks About A BIG Catch + Mid July Northwoods Update

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:44:31 GMT

This week for a quick Northwoods update we bring on our good friend Clayton Spiess with Thistle Dew Outdoor Adventures to talk about a recent giant musky landed in his boat. Listen in as Clayton talks through what all went down to secure this huge musky! Got to catch up a little as well and see how Clayton's season has been going and chatting on possible reasons to why lots of big fish are showing up this year. Gus also gives an update on how the bite has been going and an update on how league has been going. Although short this pod is jam packed with goodies so tap in!

We're gonna need a bigger boat

E62 - Aiden Johnson w/ Aiden's Angling

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:50:15 GMT

This week the MOT crew sits down together and chats with Aiden Johnson owner of Aiden's Angling Guide Service out of the MN metro area. First, apologies on mic quality - MOT crew recorded together on the laptop and the good mic was not working properly. Although we had a lower quality sound from our end, the guest this week was quite the opposite. Aiden is a young angler that just flat out catches tons of muskies and will get you on 'em in the metro. He did a great job giving the run down on metro water along with giving out some great local knowledge to help you boat very pressured fish. Lots of talk on triggering fish in the cast and the figure 8. This one is full of high quality knowledge so tap in!

Fishing in the Northwoods of WI has been fantastic. Tightlines and good luck to everyone able to make it out!

https://aidensangling.com/

E61 - Smith's Fishing Outdoors: Fischer & Jason Smith

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 09:30:24 GMT

For the 4th of July episode we bring on Fischer and Jason Smith from Smith's Fishing Outdoors on YouTube. Jason is a veteran of the sport of musky fishing while his son Fischer is on his way to become one himself. We chat on many subjects from topwater tips, big fish stories, adventures their channel has brought them to, musky stocking, and many more. Gus also chats on the current bite happening in the northwoods of Wisconsin. This podcast is full of knowledge so tap in! Have a safe and happy 4th of July everyone - tightlines!

https://www.youtube.com/@smithsfishingoutdoors

Chris Stapleton on the National Anthem

E60 - Jody Marler w/ Fishcamp Creative

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 13:35:47 GMT

This week the MOT crew talks with Jody Marler from Fishcamp Creative. Jody is extremely passionate about the outdoors whether it's musky fishing, hunting, or building custom log homes & cabinetry. He's well traveled and brings us many great stories of all the places he's been chasing these toothy critters. From his original roots of going to northern Wisconsin and the UP to the giant muskies that roam the big waters of Minnesota and Canada. Fishcamp YouTube channel is where you will find all of this incredible work talked abut in this weeks pod. Don't want to miss this one so tap in!

https://www.fishcampcreative.com/

Where's the muskie, Lebowski?

E59 - Will Zeichert Talks Mad Chain Muskies (6th Place Madison PMTT Finish) + Mid June Northwoods Report

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 09:30:25 GMT

This week the fellas get on their buddy from Madison, Will Zeichert, to chat about Madison Chain musky fishing. Will and his tournament partner Aaron took home a 6th place finish at the 2024 Madison PMTT event earlier in June. We talk about what they did get get their fish during some less than ideal conditions. Be sure to give a follow to Will's Instagram account @second_win_willy to see some big fish pictures and chat more on Mad town muskies!

Gus gives his report on the northwoods bite during this crazy weather changing month. This June isn't handing out any freebies and needing to grind extra for each and every bite. Tap in!

E58 - Madison PMTT Recap: Heartbreak City

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:50:23 GMT

This week Gus and Max breakdown everything that went down on the Madison chain from the first day of pre fishing right to the very end of Sunday. This one isn't filled with sunshine and rainbows but we hope you can still learn with us and have some takeaways. On the other hand, northwoods fishing once Gus got back up north has been outstanding providing many bites each day. Weather has been shifty so be sure to play your cards right because those bite windows close as fast as they open still with the relatively cold water surface temps for mid June. Tap in!

E57 - Madison PMTT Preview + Northwoods Early June Update

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 10:00:43 GMT

This week it's just Gus and Max with a quick hitter on an early June update on how the bite has been since opener plus preview of Madison PMTT this weekend. Gus discusses current conditions like water temps, weed growth, where the muskies are, baits that have been working and then what this weather will do for the weekend. Goodluck to those in the Madison PMTT qualifier, Spring Classic in Eagle River, or just out chasing these phantoms on their own! Tap in!

E56 - Northern WI Opener Recap + MN Opener Preview w/ Alex McLean & Tyler Schlabsz

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:00:24 GMT

This week the MOT crew gets together with their good friend Jack and chat about Northern Wisconsin musky opener 2024. Lots of highs this low but we touch on the lows as well. The entire gameplan and step-by-step walkthrough of how we got it done is all in this pod so don't skip out!

After the recap you will find another segment dedicated to talking about the MN musky opener this weekend with reoccurring guest Alex Mclean along with his good friend and boat partner Tyler Schlabsz. These are two insanely good sticks in MN and bring some serious knowledge to the table. We discuss opener strategies, insane big fish stories, baits, night fishing, etc.. These guys always have a finger on the pulse of what the bite will be in MN so tap in!

E55 - Northern WI Musky Opener Preview: Phil Stodola on GB + Michael Hanson on Hayward

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:58:42 GMT

Northern WI musky opener is upon us! We gathered two guests this week to talk about the other ends of the state that are opening for muskies: GB and Hayward/NW Wisconsin. Phil Stodola of the GB area joins us for the first time and gives the run down on temps and where the muskies should be for the bay itself and the tributaries. If you're fishing GB you won't want to miss this part! Phil also guides for Angler Sportfishing and has a YouTube/Facebook with the ever so popular "Pond Bait Demos" that you don't want to miss!

Next up we have Michael Hanson on to talk about the northwestern section of Wisconsin and what those anglers should be looking for this weekend. Michael gives up some juicy tips on crankbaits and gliders that are sure to put more muskies in your net all parts of the year.

Lastly, by now you have for sure realized one member was missing... Max's first pod missed! Oofda. That's okay. Gus and Brian held down the fort and chopped it up about their own tactics and thoughts on opener for more of the Eagle River/Minocqua area this weekend. Nuggets are dropped all throughout this one so be sure to tune in on your way up north and tap in!

Goodluck to everyone on the water and we wish you a successful season!

We hope you enjoy the Caddyshack cold open referring to Phil's pond bait demos!

E54 - Todd "Tadpole" Powell of Tadpole's Sports

Fri, 17 May 2024 12:12:13 GMT

On this week of Muskies On Tap we bring to you a local legend and guide Todd "Tadpole" Powell. Todd grew up in Eagle River, WI and cut his teeth guiding at a very young age. Fishing has been a huge part of his life and he shares some of his fondest memories. Todd's stories are second to none so you don't want to miss out on this one! He also runs a local shop called Tadpole's Sports in downtown Eagle River. We also take a look at old school vs. new school techniques along with advancements in electronics. We at MOT enjoyed this one and hope y'all do as well. Tap in!

Tadpole... a master he is... listen you will... force is strong with this one

E53 - Austin Wiggerman Talks On Pre, During, and Post Spawn Muskies + Southern WI Opener Recap

Thu, 09 May 2024 09:30:17 GMT

This week we have Austin Wiggerman on to take us to school on some pre, during, and post spawn muskies. He has been on the water keeping tabs on these northern Illinois muskies since ice off and soon southern Wisconsin muskies. The tips he gives span from fish movements, staging locations before & after the spawn, and incredibly useful lure techniques to trigger more fish. Meanwhile, the MOT crew came off a difficult southern opener and break down the conditions faced on the mighty Wisco river. Stick around after our recap in the beginning of the pod because you do not want to miss Austin's segment! Tap in!

E52 - Cave Run PMTT Recap + Southern WI Musky Opener Preview

Thu, 02 May 2024 10:30:20 GMT

The start of the PMTT season has begun. Join us this week on a full rundown of how Gus and Max squeaked out a top 10 finish for the first leg of the PMTT at Cave Run Lake down in Kentucky. Lot's of ups and downs during pre fishing through the end of the tourney so join in to hear how it all went down. The fellas also talk a quick preview on heading to Southern Wisconsin to chase muskies during the opener south of highway 10. Goodluck to all of the anglers headed out on the water this weekend and have fun! Tap in!

E51 - PMTT Mega Pod + Cave Run 2024 Preview

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:00:40 GMT

This week we sit down in person with two other PMTT trail teams; Clayton Spiess/Nice Amorose and Jeremy and Trevor Barber to preview the upcoming PMTT event at Cave Run, KY. We touch on past tournaments, lessons learned, and some fun tournament stories. We are even joined by special guest Gregg Thomas who gives us an update on water conditions heading into the tournament. Tap in for this mega pod and as always, thanks for listening!

E50 - MOT Crew Chops It Up w/ Q&A + Spring Update

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:17:33 GMT

This week it's the 3 original MOT crew members chopping it up with some Q&A that the listeners sent in from Instagram. This one is entirely off the cuff, and if you can get through the first 10 minutes or so there's some good fishing tips mixed with a lot of fun questions. Next week will be a MEGA pod on all things PMTT with the upcoming Cave Run being the highlight. We will be joined by 2 other trail teams: the Barber father/son duo Jeremy & Trevor and team Clayton Spiess & Nick Amorose. Tap in!

Hope you enjoy this weeks intro quote... Celebrity Jeopardy! and all jokes aside from the quote punchline, I love my job! The SNL segment was just too fitting for this weeks pod featuring the fellas just buzzing back and forth on the Q&A. New intro quotes each and every week!

E49 - Northern Wisconsin Muskies w/ Guide Taylor Flannery

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 09:30:33 GMT

Taylor, from Musky Guarantee Guide Service, was kind enough to hop on with us and chat Wisconsin northwoods fishing. Taylor talks about his ascension to guiding, multiple fish days, lures, colors, best time to catch a northwoods giant and more. Stick around as we announce the March Madness bracket challenge winner. We had a blast chatting with Taylor and we want to thank everyone who participated in our March Madness group. Tap in!

E48 - David Dykowski w/ Findingfish906

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:30:23 GMT

This week we are joined by David Dykowski from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to talk muskies. David is an avid fisherman of many species but especially has a magnet for huge muskies and pike. We talk about some of his go to patterns to catch these phantom beasts along with some really cool fishing stories he has to offer. He's a wealth of knowledge so get the notepad ready! Also be sure to listen in as Gus talks about his short trip down to Iowa for the first musky trip of the year. Tap in!

Hope you enjoy the Caddyshack quote to start off this weeks episode!

E47 - Jeff Widmann w/ Team Rhino Outdoors

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:00:48 GMT

This week we bring to you a re-run episode of an early guest we had on in our first year of the podcast. Jeff Widmann, owner of Team Rhino Outdoors, shares the story on what it took to take a few cool custom colored baits and turn it into what TRO is today. He also is a very avid musky angler and shares some great stories and tips to put more muskies in the boat. Tap in!

E46 - Wisconsin Musky Expo Recap + q&a

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 10:00:32 GMT

We threw it back this week to an old fashion Muskies On Tap episode with just the fellas chopping it up about the Wisconsin Musky expo last weekend in Wausau (Rothschild), WI. Lot of hot takes this week that you won't want to miss regarding baits we love and maybe not so much. We kept the episode rolling with some q&a towards the end regarding reading water and crazy stories. We hope you have fun listening to this one because we had a great time recording it. Tap in!

E45 - Hunseytails + Hammer Customs: Kyle Hunsader & Nick Amorose

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 10:00:56 GMT

On this weeks episode we welcome Kyle Hunsader, Green Bay local, w/ Hunseytails and Nick Amorose, Northern WI, w/ Hammer Customs to talk about their baits that you can find at the Wisconsin Musky Expo this weekend (March 15-17)! Kyle makes a series of bucktails called "Bangers" that puts a unique twist to modern bucktails and comes in various sizes. Nick hand carves a various array of wooden baits like gliders, twitch baits, dive-n-rise, and trolling crankbaits. This will be a first expo debut for both bait builders so let's give them a warm welcome! The booth will be under the name "Hunseytails" and Gus will also be joining Kyle and Nick in the booth with some MOT gear. This pod has some more Green Bay info along with the bait talk so you won't want to miss this one! Tap in!

Wisconsin Musky Expo - Rothschild, WI @Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center - March 15-17

http://www.wimuskyexpo.com/

E44 - Spotlight: Rich Reinert

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:00:39 GMT

This week we are joined with special guest Rich Reinert, a legend of all things musky fishing. Listen along as we dive into more than just the upcoming Wisconsin Musky Expo in Wausau March 15-17th. Rich covers some old school fishing stories involving Tony Rizzo, topwater tricks, sleeper baits, the musky industry, where the musky world is at today and many more. You won't want to miss this one so tap in!

E43 - Taps and Tackle Co.

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:10:17 GMT

This week Matt and Jozef from Taps and Tackle Co joined us from their bait shop bar in Stevens Point, WI. We had a great conversation regarding a lot of different aspects of the musky world, from owning a business, being a guide, to chasing river muskies. Tap in this week!

https://tapsandtackleco.com/