Muskie Fishing Big Creek Lake, Polk County Iowa Des Moines

[muskynut75]

I think it is very important to stress to individuals targeting muskies that once the water temperatures get higher than the high 70's muskies should not be targeted due to the stress put on the fish in warm water, it will most certainly kill the fish. Also there are 5 boat ramps on this lake, all are hard service and in exceptional condition.

[willcfish]

@muskynut75 I agree, do a water release at mid 70's and keep the fish in the water if at all possible. If you have to have a picture get everything ready first and then lift the fish out of the water supporting the belly. Hold the fish horizontally, get a quick picture and back in the water.

Hot surface temps, put your arm in the water and hold the fishes head below the water a foot or more and let it swim away and down. Just a foot or two can be quite a few degrees temperature difference.