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Muskie season opens Saturday, but not on the St. Lawrence River

Posted 5/26/17

Muskie fishing season kicks off May 27 in most locations, but won’t start along the St. Lawrence River until June 17, according to DEC officials. "New York waters are home to some of the nation’s …

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Muskie season opens Saturday, but not on the St. Lawrence River

Posted

Muskie fishing season kicks off May 27 in most locations, but won’t start along the St. Lawrence River until June 17, according to DEC officials.

"New York waters are home to some of the nation’s premier muskie fishing opportunities and DEC is committed to sound management of this charismatic predator," DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “Muskies are the largest freshwater sportfish in New York State and are the ultimate trophy by anglers that pursue them.”

Muskellunge, also known as “muskies,” are a trophy-size fish, with New York’s statewide minimum size limit set at 40 inches and Great Lakes waters’ size limit set at 54 inches. Review the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide for more information.

Known in angling circles as “the fish of 10,000 casts,” muskies put up quite a fight once hooked; their ability to challenge and confound anglers due to their massive size and their well-earned status as a top predator fish have often inspired anglers to forsake other sportfishing opportunities for a run at a muskie.

Muskellunge fisheries in New York are managed through habitat protection and enhancement, research and monitoring, stocking, and fishing regulations. At least 13 lakes and 19 rivers have muskellunge populations in New York State.

The St. Lawrence River, Upper Niagara River, and Chautauqua Lake are the most renowned muskie hotspots in the state. Other quality muskie waters are Waneta, Greenwood, Bear, and Cassadaga lakes, and the Susquehanna, Chenango, and Great Chazy rivers.

For further information on muskie season and rules and regulations, contact Jeff Loukmas, Warmwater Fisheries Unit Leader, (518) 402-8897.