Fished 2pm to 6pm, weeds progressing, average water clarity for Eagle, surface temps around 73.

Tried to get in some time before the first storm, hoping for the pre-storm window. No love and had to ditch the canoe on the bank (main boat in for motor repair). Got soaked in a 45 min downpour which is fine, wore my swim trunks even, except a bit rushed going out and had no bailing device or bug spray. A biting fly hatch found me quickly as the most exposed fat mammal in the woods, kicked my arse relentlessly then stayed with me as I resumed the effort. No way to bail the canoe had me standing shin deep in cool rain water as the flies feasted. OK I tried an empty 20 oz Powerade bottle but futile, and with battery, electric motor and gear I didn't unload to tip out the canoe bathtub, and wanted to keep at it when storms allowed. I had two more soakings but not with thunder and not as heavy, so I fished through them.

I'm more patient than when I was younger but this still had me pretty infuriated, also since my last two muskie tries were cut short by storms I did not stay to fish after. I was determined, kept at it knowing how great it feels when success finally happens after setbacks, especially over multiple trips like my recent tries. Then yes it finally happened, a nice low 40s fish stayed pinned. I remembered why I didn't stick much with kayak musky fishing as vessels like these can skate 10 feet on a hook set, and miss fish. But she ate good and had the small 11' canoe spinning in circles in a great battle. It was well worth it even if very, very dumb and tough to explain to sane people.