What’s the Hype about Muskellunge? #3

In the early 60’s, a species of fish know as Muskellunge or “Muskie” was introduced into Lac Frontier in Quebec, Canada. The fish eventually made its way down to the St. John watershed and continued to be found in other lakes and rivers. Many sportsmen were devastated by this and were concerned that the trout population would suffer by this so called alligator like predator. Others eventually saw it as an opportunity to create a sport fish program that could bring anglers and money to northern Maine.

But just what is a “Muskie.”

The Muskie is one of Maine’s largest freshwater fish. Some weigh in in excess of 26 lbs. They come from the Esocidae family which includes Pike and Pickerel. They are now prevalent in the St. John River and the Fish River and reports are that they have made it into other lakes in Northern Maine. Muskie feed on other fish and word has it that they destroy the trout population where they are. They also feed on frogs, waterfowl and small rodents.

For all of the negativity that surrounds the fish, one community has harnessed its energy and created a derby that not only helps the local economy, but also helps to somewhat manage the fish population in that area. Annually, Fort Kent has a Muskie tournament which brings in anglers from all over to their community. The Derby will be in its 9^th year in 2012 and the number of people who pay to take part in it continues to grow. Money prizes are awarded for the biggest fish overall and the biggest fish daily. The 2011 derby was a great success with its winner landing a 27 lb. 43 3/8 inch Muskie.

On the other side, if you are a trout fisherman, you are watching, with concern, the track the Muskie are taking. Should they find their way up the Fish River falls and into the tributaries behind that, fishing as we know it could be destroyed? The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife does not limit the size or the amount of Muskie you can catch which is a testament to trying to keep them under control.

As a trout fisherman, I have concerns about them and the impact they will have on fishing in general. I believe we need to do something to ensure they do not find their way into our lakes, ponds and streams. Failure to do so will surely have a profound affect on the state and fishing in general.

So, What do you think should be done?