Ep 4. Northern Wisconsin Musky with Oliver Ngy and Kevin Harlander

In the fourth episode of MeatEater's Das Boat season 2, titled "Northern Wisconsin Musky with Oliver Ngy and Kevin Harlander," host and avid angler Steven Rinella takes to the waters of northern Wisconsin alongside musky experts Oliver Ngy and Kevin Harlander. This episode marks the Das Boat's debut on Lake Namakagon and features the team's epic quest to find and catch the elusive musky, a prized freshwater game fish known for its power, size, and elusiveness.

The episode opens with Rinella and his guests discussing the unique catch-and-release practice of musky fishing, which involves carefully removing the hook from the fish's mouth and snapping a quick photo before returning it to the water unharmed. The trio then sets out on the boat, braving the chilly weather and overcast skies as they troll the lake in search of their prey.

Throughout the course of the episode, Rinella, Ngy, and Harlander share their expertise and passion for musky fishing, offering tips and insights on everything from lure choice and trolling strategies to the importance of respecting the fish and its habitat. Along the way, they also discuss the cultural and historical significance of the musky, which has long been revered by anglers and residents alike as a symbol of northern Wisconsin's natural beauty and wildness.

As the day wears on and the fish prove elusive, the mood on the boat becomes increasingly tense. Despite several promising runs and near-misses, the team struggles to hook a musky, leaving Rinella wondering if he will ever get to experience the thrill of catching one of these "fish of 10,000 casts." However, as the sun begins to set and the team prepares to call it a day, fate intervenes in the form of a massive musky that takes the bait and sends the boat careening across the lake in pursuit.

What follows is a heart-pounding battle between man and fish, as Rinella and his guests work together to reel in the monster musky and land the seemingly impossible catch. Along the way, they share in the joy and excitement of the moment, acknowledging the powerful connection that can be forged between angler and fish in the pursuit of a shared passion.

As the episode draws to a close, Rinella reflects on the experience and the unique rewards of musky fishing, which are as much about the journey as the destination. He also acknowledges the importance of preserving and protecting the species and its habitat for future generations to enjoy, reminding viewers that the thrill of musky fishing is just one small piece of a larger ecosystem that is worth cherishing and protecting.

Overall, the "Northern Wisconsin Musky with Oliver Ngy and Kevin Harlander" episode of MeatEater's Das Boat season 2 is a thrilling and informative look at the art of musky fishing and the beauty of northern Wisconsin's wilderness. With its stunning cinematography, expert insights, and heart-pounding action, it is sure to be an instant classic for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.