Tiger Muskellunge

The tiger musky is a hybrid produced when a male northern pike fertilizes the eggs spawned by a female muskellunge

Region

Northeast, Midwest, South

Catch Ease

Hard

Habitat

Lake, Pond, River

How to identify a Tiger Muskellunge

This species should not be confused with the true muskellunge which has long been called tiger musky in Minnesota. In most respects, notably in size and appearance, the hybrid is very much like the true muskellunge and anglers universally hold it in equal, and often higher, esteem than the true musky because of its rarity, its beautiful markings and its game nature. It differs from the true muskellunge most noticeably in the markings on its sides. The true musky may have either bars or spots on the sides or no markings at all, but it is rarely as strikingly beautiful as the tiger musky with its wavering tiger stripes.

Where to catch Tiger Muskellunge

It is conceivable that one might find a tiger musky anywhere that both muskellunge and northern pike occur together, though it is not a common fish anywhere. They may also be found in areas where they have been introduced, but such populations are naturally self-limiting since the tiger musky is sterile and cannot reproduce. The following list includes additional details on where to catch this fish:

Cliffs and Steep Shore Banks

Gradual Shores

Points and Break Lines

Rivers and Streams

Sunken Objects

Freshwater Lakes and Ponds

how to catch Tiger Muskellunge

For many years the tiger musky was believed to be a separate species until scientists succeeded in crossing a northern pike with a muskellunge to discover its true origin. Today it is one of the most prized freshwater catches that an angler can make. Tough and determined fighters, these fish are known to be one of the more highly revered sport fish of freshwater. Most anglers use stout rods with plenty of backbone paired with tough spinning or bait casting reels to target these fish. Most tiger muskies are either released or mounted, but some are also eaten. Their firm white flesh makes for a fillet with nice texture but the taste is known to be somewhat bland. The following are fishing methods used to catch this fish: