I am a lifetime member of the club but am new to this online queries. 

My friend and I are dedicated "Muskie hunters" and we are trying out a new location/lake this year.  Lake Vermillion, MN. My fishing buddy is trying to break my 53.5" record and I would like to beat that record myself.  We are staying at the "Retreat Lodge Resort" on Lake Vermillion and our arrival date is September 14th through the 21st.  Any information you can share with me about size of line, baits that work well for Muskies in that lake, recommendations for a lake guide, things like that would be very appreciated.  We have the confidence we just need the knowledge that may give us the edge up on our first out of state "Muskie Hunt"

Thank you in advance for any help anyone can give us,  Pat McKearn, Beloit, WI

What we have found true at Vermillion is that there is so much "great looking" cover/shoreline that you could fish it forever and not fish it all. We have spent most of our time in the "big lake" or east side from the town of Tower. Many people think fishing the west side is the best but we prefer the east. Try to get some information from the locals or people that fish there often and pump them for the best "spots". We have caught fish on in-line spinners, spinner baits, bulldogs and topwater baits after dark. We have found the fish like the color purple "baits, not the film" and we have had better luck, 52.5x25 using smaller presentations. Good luck and bring lots of gas, the lake is 25miles from end to end with over 300 islands.