Does the guy in the front of the boat have the advantage?

[Rod (WI)]

I was wandering if you guys think the guy fishing the front of the boat have the advantage in muskie fishing? I have been muskie fishing for about 8 years now and have goten quite a few muskies by now. My dad has been fishing right with me for most of that time and he has only boated 2. My question is do you think he is at a disadvantage by throwing after me. I always wondered that but never really knew. Thanks for the replys.

[Tom B]

I don't think so. A couple of years ago, I thought that the backseat had a definate advantage. Now, I am starting to think that it is more the angler than anything.

I think on days when the fishing is slow, the backseat has an advantage, but on "hot" days, the front guy.

I suspect that you have caught more than your dad, because you know the structure that you are fishing better and can more accurately place casts.

I could go on and on about ways to be more productive from the backseat, but I think you get the picture....

Tom B

[ToddM]

It can depend from day to day and lake to lake. Some days the person at the front gets all the action because the fish respond to the first bait they see. Sometimes they do not. One thing for sure, the back person should not throw the same style lure as the person in front unless they are fishing off the other side of the boat or are bale to hit spots the first person is not or cannot. If the first person gets a follow on one bait, they may eat the second offering provided it's a much different presentation.