Our Public Release Program

The Public Release Program honors anglers that demonstrate a strong commitment towards conservation by awarding a Certificate of Appreciation and a Release Award Decal for a successful Catch & Release of a Muskellunge 36 inches or longer.

Why Should You Release Your Muskie?

  • It takes almost 7 years for a Muskellunge to reach maturity and be able to spawn. In most waters this occurs when the fish is approximately 40″.
  • It can take more than 20 years for a Muskie to grow to 50″.
  • Large fish produce more eggs per spawn.
  • Releasing the Muskie you catch allows the fish to spawn again and supports the wild Muskie population.
  • Fibreglass Replica mounts can be made of your catch using a few good pictures and accurate length and girth measurements. Replica mounts allow you to release the fish and have an exact copy to hang on the wall that will last a lifetime.

Requirements To Qualify

The Public Release Program is available to all members of the public with a valid fishing license.

Muskellunge must be caught and released during the proper open season.

  • Muskellunge must be 36″ or longer.
  • A photo of the fish (preferably a release picture) must be provided.
  • A short description of your catch and release is optional.
  • Send it to us by email at publiceducation@muskiescanada.ca

Catching and releasing a Muskie is a significant angling achievement and should be rewarded. Would you like to have a personalised Certificate of Appreciation from Muskies Canada acknowledging your achievement?

See participants pictures here!