Muskellunge

Species Description

The largest of the pikes, this species is also known as "muskie" or "musky." They are long and slender, with a mouth full of razor-sharp teeth. They differ from other members of the pike family in having both the gill cover and cheek scaled only on their upper halves, and in having a row of 6 to 9 pores along each side of lower jaw. The color pattern on body consists of dark spots or bars on a light background. Usually there are 17 to 19 slender bones (branchiostegal rays) in the membranes along lower edge of gill cover, and 130 to 157 scales in the lateral line, which is series of sensory pores that form a faint line along both sides of a fish's sides.

Fishing Type
Game
Topic Category
Hunting / Fishing Guide
Regulations
Seasons
Biological Information
Title
Seasons
Muskellunge

Muskellunge side view photo with black background

Season Open
  • January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024
Notes

Limits apply on all waters except on areas with special regulations. Check area regulations.

Daily limit: 1 muskellunge or 1 northern pike
Possession limit: 2
Size limit: minimum 36"

Fishing: Allowed Methods

Methods

Pole and Line

Trotline

Limb Line

Bank Line

Jug Line

Additional Info

Ice fishing tackle, or tip-ups, are considered a pole-and-line method.