An Overview Of
Common Surface Lures
Craig Sandell © 2010
Muskie action on a surface lure is probably the most exciting experience that a
Muskie Angler can have. Surface lures come in many designs. This article will focus upon
the four basic configurations with some insight as to when and how to use them.
 The Globe
The globe has been around for quite some time and has proven to be one of the most
consistent producers of Muskie. The globe has a rotating head and may have the blade
attached to the head. Most globes are 8 inches in length and have one hook in the body
area and another at the rear. The globe, like all surface lures, is meant to emulate a
small animal swimming. Ideally, the action should leave the Muskie with the impression
that the swimming animal is weak or injured. A good globe will provide action in all
weather and water conditions and is effective when used in depths from 15 feet to 2 feet.
When it comes to color, there is and old Muskie saying: "Any color is good as long as
it is black." Lure color is a personal preference. Use the color in which you have
confidence.
 The Wobbler
The wobbler type surface lure is a relative new comer to the surface lure arsenal. It has
proven to be a very very effective surface lure that will provoke a violent Muskie attack.
Its action in the water is as its name implies. Its jointed body rocks from side to
side
as it clicks and gurgles through the water. It does not do well in heavy weather. It seems
to have the best action when the water is calm to just a slight ripple. Retrieve this lure
slowly using a 7 inch solid wire leader without a swivel. This will allow you to feel the
lure action as you retrieve it. Use it in depths from 15 feet to 2 feet.
 The Creeper
The creeper is an excellent early morning and late evening lure. It has a side to side
action apparently swimming its way through the water. The arms create a distinctive sound
as they plop against the surface of the water. You can use the creeper in calm to light
chop. Use a 7 inch solid wire leader without a swivel. The creeper is very effective but
it is also very cantankerous. It is not the type of lure that can typically be used right
out of the package. Make sure that you try some practice casts from the dock to be sure
that the lure will not disappoint you when you get to your prime Muskie locations. The
arms can be detuned by a violent Muskie encounter. Once detuned, you may have a tough time
retuning the lure to its original performance. This is a slow retrieve type lure and is
not for the impatient angler.
 The Topper
As with the globe, the topper has been around for a long time and has produced many a
Muskie. The topper will work in all weather and water conditions and is especially
effective in high choppy conditions. You can use this lure in depths from 25 feet to 2
feet. This lure is effective at a variety of retrieve speeds and can allow the lone Muskie
Angler to cover a large area of water in a relatively short period of time. The topper
shown here is a "Sneaky Joe" and is generally not available for purchase.
Popular topper type lure such as the Topper Stopper, and Too Ton are available in catalogs
and tackle shops. As topper lures go, bigger lures are not necessarily better. The
"Surf-O-Reno" is a small lure by Muskie fishing standards but is generally
considered to be an effective topper type lure.
General Note:
The surface lures depicted here are not offered as a recommendation.
In deed, there are many different configurations and variations of these lures in varying
sizes and colors and at varying prices. If you are new to Muskie fishing, I suggest that
you start out with a good globe, a topper, a creeper and a wobbler. Get to know these
lures, especially the globe and the wobbler. All of the other surface lures available
today have their retrieve action based upon the retrieve of these lures. Globes and
toppers are available through catalogs and from tackle shops. The most common price range
for these lures starts at $9.95 and goes to $15.00. There are some lures that are as high
as $20.00 to $32.00. You will have to decide whether those types of prices are reasonable
for the lure quality you are getting and the fish catching potential. Personally, I consider
anything
over $20.00 a bit over priced.
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