Muskellunge (Muskie)
COOL WATER SPECIES
Length 71-137 cm (28-54 in)
Muskie anglers share a dream of catching that rare trophy that sometimes exceeds 40 lbs. (18 kg). Peak pay-off periods occur after the season opens in June and again in September when water temperatures begin to cool. July and August however, produce substantial numbers of small to medium-sized muskie. Key fishing times during the day include morning and evening. Many Muskie are also active for a few hours after midnight. Muskie are powerful fish with razor-sharp teeth. Care must be used when handling them to avoid injuries to the angler and the fish. Most Muskie anglers usually release, so successful survival of released Muskie is important to the future of the fisheries. Have strong pliers to remove hooks or side-cutters for deeply imbedded barbs. This fish is found in Rice, Chemong, Pigeon, Stoney & Buckhorn Lakes.