Muskie in Missouri
No other freshwater fish offers the combination of size, strength, ferociousness, and "big game" appeal as the muskie. Just the chance of encountering one of these toothy giants is enough to keep die-hard muskie anglers casting for days.
Although opportunities to catch muskie were once restricted to more northerly waters, regular stocking in several Missouri lakes has produced outstanding muskie fisheries. If the thought of catching one of these tackle-busting predators is appealing to you, give one of these lakes a try. Once you've had your first muskie encounter you'll be hooked!
History of Muskie in Missouri
Muskie were first introduced into Missouri in 1966 in Pomme de Terre Lake where they have been regularly stocked. Muskie were first stocked in Pony Express Lake in 1973 and in Hazel Creek Lake in 1983. Several other small lakes were initially stocked with muskie in 1995-2001. Five lakes are currently stocked and managed for muskies: Pomme de Terre, Hazel Creek, Fellows, Henry Sever, and Lake 35 (Busch Conservation Area).
Until 1991, muskie stocked in Missouri were obtained from other states. Beginning in 1991, muskie have been collected in Missouri and successfully spawned and reared in Missouri hatcheries. Currently, Lost Valley Hatchery in Warsaw is the primary site of muskie production in the state. After muskie are spawned in spring, the young are raised in hatchery ponds until October when they are released into the lakes.
