This could be an interesting list of jolly and festive suggestions but I want to offer this up to the guys who like to fish Mille Lacs or want to fish Mille Lacs, but it’s just not going to happen this year.
Between hunting and fishing, I’m finding myself limited to the amount of traveling I’m willing to do on any given day/week. So rather than miss out on the action all together, I invested some time night trolling this summer to prepare for the very circumstances I find myself in! The conditions are right for whitetail bowhunting, and I don’t want to miss that, but come dusk…… man oh man…… would I love to be out fishing the big pond! 
Putting together a plan on a few lakes, local to my hunting grounds, I’ve been spending some time on them and the results are amazing!
I haven’t dialed in any huge numbers but I’m getting into some quality fish! And of course, with more frequency, the increased possibility of “that pig of a lifetime” adds to the anticipaition of “is tonight the night?”.
I’m using the same techniques our staffers are practicing on Mille Lacs and I’m having a good time! No pike or muskie for me personally but I have a trusted family friend that has so I know it’s possible.
The lakes I’ve chosen are in Rusk and Chippewa Counties and I’m surprised at the fish we never see all year that are showing up now! Mille Lacs isn’t the only lake with some monsters in it and I’m VERY happy to be learning this! Granted, the numbers and frequency compared to Mille Lacs are proportionate, so try to remember that and keep your expectations in check.
The bonus? I haven’t had to share ANY lake with ANYONE! Complete serenity and no competition!
Mille Lacs rightfully draws a lot of attention so I think the other night anglers are either thinking Mille Lacs or similar big waters. There are tons of lakes around, likely to be closer to your home or recreation area, that are just as promising of a good time……. and no one else is using them!
Daylight fishing still holds a handful of fall fishing enthusiasts, but they all leave by dark. I’d like to offer to the guys that are “busied up” enough that a trip to the pond isn’t in the cards, this option to try some of your local waters. You may be INCREDIBLY, pleasantly surprised! 
To all you guys on the pond…… big fish to all of you! You’ve been the inspiration to expand my own horizons so I wish you another great fall experience!!!
