Hard baits can be effective for fall fishing

For many people, summer's end is marked by the arrival of Labor Day. So, too, for many anglers, the coming weekend marks the end of fishing for the year. But in fact, some of the biggest walleyes, muskies and northern pike will be caught — and, with luck, released — between now and Nov. 1. Getting in on the action depends on correct timing. But target October's full moon and the days leading up to it as opportunities not to be missed. Hard baits — Rapalas and the like — can be most effective at this time, run at various depths, again depending on water temperatures. Upshot: Don't put away the boat yet.