Muskellunge

Esox masquinongy

Ohio's ultimate trophy fish — the 'fish of 10,000 casts.'

Size Limit
30 inches
Daily Bag
2
Season
Year-round
State Record
55 lbs 2 oz
Piedmont Lake (1972)

Best Months to Fish

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

What to Use

Live Bait & Natural

large suckerslarge shiners

Lures & Artificials

bucktailslarge jerkbaitscrankbaitstopwaterrubber ducks

Overview

Muskellunge are Ohio’s ultimate trophy fish. Leesville Lake, Clear Fork Reservoir, Piedmont Lake, Salt Fork Lake, and West Branch Reservoir are top muskie waters. Ohio DNR stocks muskellunge in select reservoirs. The state record 55-lb 2-oz muskie from Piedmont Lake has stood since 1972.

Regulation Notes

Catch and release encouraged on many waters

More Ohio Fish Species

View all fish species →

Plan Your Muskellunge Trip

Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next muskellunge fishing trip in Ohio.

Explore Lakes   Find a Guide   Bait & Tackle

Regulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Ohio DNR regulations before fishing. An Ohio fishing license is required for ages 16+.