Musky

Musky Survey Results – 2026

The current muskellunge survey began on April 27, 2026. As of our check on May 1, 2026 (32 total net nights):

• Total Catch: 43 muskellunge.
• Size Range: Fish have varied from the low 20-inch range up to 48 inches.
• Catch Rate: 1.3 fish per net night, which is highly encouraging and above average for this lake class.

Source: Musky Survey Results – 2026

PIT Tagging & Angler Participation

Every muskellunge handled in this year’s survey is receiving a Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag, similar to a pet microchip. It would be nice if you could encourage Squirrel Lake anglers to participate in data collection by having them:

1. Scan the muskellunge they catch: Use an FDX PIT tag reader (available for $30–$115) to check for PIT tags, primarily near the dorsal fin. Models like the Smoostart Universal or NetumScan are commonly used by local associations.
2. Log their trips: Fill out the attached Angler Diary for every outing, even if you don’t catch a fish and send the diary back to me at the end of the year. Include whether a PIT tag was found or not, the PIT tag number if one is found and the size of musky caught.

Source: Musky PIT Tagging and Angler Participation

See also: Surveys, User Survey