Michigan - Lake St. Clair
Though it's too small to be a Great Lake, St. Clair covers 162 square miles and has one of the densest muskie populations in the country. It's regulated for trophy fishing, with a minimum-length limit of 44 inches. To get fish now, troll big Drifter Believer lures over 20 to 25 feet of water near the shipping channel. If you get tired of that, smallmouth bass fishing is an excellent alternative. Lakeside Fishing Shop, 586-777-7003; lakesidefishingshop.com

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Guide's Tips
Species: Muskies
Guide: Lakeside Fishing Shop; lakesidefishingshop.com; 586-777-70034
Rig Specifics: 7-foot, Ugly Stick Tiger rod with 30- to 50-pound-test line and a crankbait.
Quick Tip: The best way to get a bite is to troll your crankbait about 10 feet deep.
Where to Fish: The prime spot is around Heron Point.