Muskie Fishing in Michigan

Trolling is a popular method of muskie fishing in Michigan waters.

Muskellunge, also called muskies, are one of the most coveted game fish in Michigan. Muskies are strong predators, occupying a high position in the lake's food chain making it a challenge for many anglers to fish for them. Though not in great abundance, they can be found in many of the state's lakes and rivers. However, bodies of water like Lake St. Claire holds healthy populations of muskies. With the right tools, methods and knowledge, you can catch a muskie.

Muskellunge

Muskellunge is one of the common fish species of the state, according to Michigan Department of Natural Resources. They are characterized by dark spots on their lightly colored bodies, six or more sensory pores on each side on their lower jaws and their scaled upper half cheeks and gills. Muskies feed aggressively two to three times a day lasting from 15 minutes up to an hour where you want to be nearby to catch them, recommends the "Michigan Sportsman Magazine."

Fishing Locations

You can find populations of muskies in Lake St. Clair, Lake Huron, St. Mary's River and Lake Erie, among many others. Fishing captains on Lake St. Clair typically catch about 10 to 15 muskies each trip, reports "Michigan Sportsman Magazine." Trolling is a popular method for catching muskies, and one of the most productive times to find them is after they spawn when they tend to congregate in warm, shallow waters. Search for muskies in shallow bays, weed edges, channel mouths and other subtle structures in Michigan's lakes.

Baits and Lures

A wide variety of fishing lures and baits are used by Michigan anglers to catch muskies.

Casting for muskies involves using a wide variety of lures and baits. Muskellunge fishing guides at Lake St. Claire cast giant bucktails, crankbait, jerkbait, spinnerbaits, body baits and jerkbaits, according to "Michigan Sportsman Magazine." Many anglers are also using fly rods and flies to chase muskies. Try fast-moving topwater baits and buzzbaits such as the Jig-a-Beast with soft plastics and jerkbait gliders like the Hellhound and Magic Maker.

Regulations

The statewide minimum size for muskellunge is 42 inches with a daily possession limit of one. Fishing season is open from May 15 to March 15 at the Upper Peninsula inland and Great Lakes waters and the St. Mary's River. Fishing season is open from the last Saturday in April through March 15 at the Lower Peninsula inland waters. Fishing is open all year for muskellunge fishing in the Lower Peninsula waters of Lake Michigan, Lower Peninsula waters of Lake Huron and Lake Erie. Open season for Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River and Detroit River is from from the first Saturday in June through Dec. 15. Regulations are based on the 2010-11 "Michigan Fishing Guide." Site-specific rules may apply and regulations change frequently, so always check with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources & Environment (DNRE) for the most current information.

Fishing License

All anglers for all sport fish must posses a valid state fishing license in Michigan. Everyone age 17 and above must purchase a fishing license from the DNRE or through licensed dealers. You need a state-issued driver's license or a state ID card to qualify for a resident fishing license. Non-resident fishing licenses are also available.

References

• 2010 Michigan Fishing Guide
• Michigan Sportsman: Muskies on the Fly

Resources

• Michigan DNRE: Fishing