As a musky guide, I juggle countless baits for unique scenarios, but one question I hear often is: “When and why use dive and rise baits, and how do you work them effectively?” These classic musky lures shine all season long and adapt to multiple retrieve styles. With roots tracing back to 1942, dive and rise baits are the longest-standing action in musky fishing—and they still put fish in the boat. Modern designs like the Livingston Lures Titan have elevated this category, blending tradition with innovation. Let’s dive into my top tips (pun intended) for mastering dive and rise baits and landing more muskies.

Slow Down: Finesse Wins with Dive and Rise Baits

Dive and rise baits are finesse tools—slow retrieves with long pauses are their sweet spot, especially in tough conditions. Muskies often strike as the bait rises or suspends, motionless, during a pause. This tactic shines in big weed beds—give the bait extended hangs in open pockets to trigger bites from lurking fish.

“Dead Stick” Method: Trigger Reluctant Muskies

No lure beats dive and rise baits for the “dead stick” method. When a musky misses or shadows the bait, let it sit still for a moment, then add the slightest twitch. Most times, that subtle movement sparks an instant, hammer-down strike. This musky fishing tip turns followers into hookups.

Be Methodical, Not Mechanical: Work the Water

Fish dive and rise baits methodically—cover an area with varied cast angles, picking it apart systematically. Keep the retrieve erratic, mimicking nature’s unpredictability. Vary the pulls between pauses, adjust pause lengths, and mix up pull distances. The goal? Never let the bait return the same way twice—keep muskies guessing for better results.

Choose the Right Depth: Match the Bait to the Zone

With so many dive and rise baits available, picking the right depth is key. Forcing a lure to fish outside its intended range is less effective than selecting one that runs naturally at your target depth. That’s why I love the Livingston Lures Titan—it’s a standout dive and rise bait. Its three interchangeable weights let me fish shallow or deep without swapping lures. Whether you choose the Titan’s versatility or another option, ensure your bait matches the water you’re working.

Figure 8 Technique: Maximize the Endgame

Straight retrieves don’t showcase dive and rise baits’ potential. In the figure 8, I use pulls and pauses to bring them alive. On the straightaways, I give two or three quick pulls with a short pause. At the corners, I let the bait hang long and still—mimicking a speeding-then-slowing prey. This musky guide trick seals the deal on followers.

Why Dive and Rise Baits Endure

From their 1942 debut to today’s advanced designs, dive and rise baits remain a musky fishing staple for a reason—they catch fish, season after season. These tips will help you work them smarter, build confidence, and boat more muskies. While effective year-round, they truly excel in tough conditions when fished slowly. Add these strategies to your arsenal, and watch your success soar.

Josh Kreger