• Scientific Name: Esox masquinongy
• Found in Illinois: Statewide
• State Average: 30"
• State Record: 38lbs/8oz (2002)
• Best Lures: minnows, jerk baits, jigs, crank baits, spoons, and spinner.

Habitat: Muskellunge (or muskie) prefer clear waters with sufficient structure, such as weed edges, rock outcroppings, or tree stumps, where they lurk to ambush their prey. They can be found in clear lakes with sufficient vegetation; quiet pools and backwaters of creeks; and small to large rivers.

Feeding and Habits: Muskie are mostly piscivorous, meaning their diet consists mainly of other fish, and are considered apex predators. Despite eating mainly fish, muskie have been known to eat crayfish, frogs, ducklings, snakes, mice, small muskrats, and other small mammals.

Reproduction: Spawning for muskellunge begins in the mid to late spring in shallow, vegetated areas with a rocky or sandy bottom. Unlike some fish species, muskellunge do not build nests. Instead, the eggs the female lays (upwards of 200,000) are adhesive and will stick to vegetation and substrate. After fertilization by the male, the eggs are abandoned by the adults, and they will eventually hatch within two weeks.