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Muskellunge

Muskellunge

Muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) are large, tubular-shaped non-native predators in Nebraska, introduced as additional trophy fish that survive better than northern pike in southeastern Nebraska reservoirs.

These apex predators are highly prized trophy fish, with Nebraska's state record weighing 41 pounds 8 ounces caught at Merritt Reservoir in 1992.

Scientific Name: Esox masquinongy

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their duck-billed snout, large mouth with razor-sharp teeth, and 6 or more pores on each side of the lower jaw (versus 5 or fewer for northern pike).
  • Both gill covers and cheeks are scaled on their upper halves.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Currently found in select Nebraska waters and are occasionally stocked in other reservoirs as trophy fish.

Key Locations

  • Watts Lake, Merritt Reservoir, Wagon Train Reservoir, upper Missouri River.
  • At Merritt, focus on the Powderhorn arm in spring, and the Snake River and Boardman Creek areas.

Specific Spots

  • Target suspended muskies in 20-25 feet of water over bottoms of 40-50 feet.
  • Target weed edges, drop-offs, points, submerged timber, and areas with structure changes.
  • In rivers, fish current breaks and eddies.

Muskellunge FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Muskellunge in Nebraska?

Large chubs, suckers, or bluegill suspended under a bobber or balloon on quick-strike rigs. Small crankbaits typically used for walleye and bass, large streamers, bucktails (like Mepps Musky Killer and Giant Killer spinners), topwater lures (Whopper Plopper 110), swimbaits (Savage Gear 3D Sucker), and glide baits.

When is the best time to fish for Muskellunge in Nebraska?

Prime muskellunge fishing seasons are spring and fall, with peak activity at Merritt Reservoir occurring in mid-May and during the dark moon phases of July and August. Avoid fishing during spawning periods (first two weeks of April).

How do you catch Muskellunge in Nebraska?

Speed trolling techniques with small crankbaits typically used for walleye and bass. Live bait fishing with large chubs, suckers, or bluegill suspended under a bobber or balloon on quick-strike rigs is highly effective.

What do Muskellunge eat?

Their diet consists mainly of soft-rayed fish like suckers, carp, shiners, chubs, cisco, alewife, and perch, but they'll consume nearly anything that fits in their mouth including frogs, ducklings, crayfish, and even small mammals like muskrats.

Where do Muskellunge live in Nebraska?

Currently found in select Nebraska waters and are occasionally stocked in other reservoirs as trophy fish.

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