Spatial Ecology of Muskellunge in the St. Clair-Detroit River System

MUSKY

May 2016 - May 2024

Muskellunge populations across the Great Lakes have declined from historic levels, but a large, self-sustaining population persists in the SCDRS that supports a valuable, world-class sport fishery. However, data that are critically important to managers remains limited. Data gaps include knowledge of spatial ecology, survival, and effects of the intensive sport fishery. Seasonal movements and macro habitat use within the SCDRS and beyond are unknown. This pilot project will explore the post spawning dispersal and summer territory size of male and female Muskellunge to inform managers and future research.

• Evaluate post spawning dispersal and determine if differences exist for males and females
• Determine if territory size varies among sex and capture location
• Determine whether the frequency of foraging location changes is greater for males or females and by capture location.

• Increased understanding of Muskellunge movement and habitat use within the St. Clair- Detroit River System.

• Jan-Michael Hessenauer (Michigan Department of Natural Resources) - hessenauerj1@michigan.gov
• Cleyo Harris (Michigan Department Of Natural Resources)
• Matthew Faust (Ohio Department Of Natural Resources)
• Emily Slavik (Ontario Ministry Of Natural Resources And Forestry)
• Darryl Hondorp (United States Geological Survey)
• Stephen Marklevitz (Ontario Ministry Of Natural Resources And Forestry)

• Michigan Department of Natural Resources
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources
• United States Geological Survey
• Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry