The fishing seasons for muskellunge begin on June 1 for inland waters and June 15 for the Great Lakes waters and their tributaries (Lake Erie, Upper Niagara River, Lower Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River).

Muskies are managed as trophy fish in New York, with minimum size regulations of 40 inches for inland waters and 54 inches for Great Lakes waters. Additional special regulations exist on a few inland waters, so be sure to check the current fishing regulations for the water you plan to fish.

Locally, the world of musky anglers already knows that Chautauqua Lake is a most popular destination for musky fishing. Other local opportunities for musky anglers to pursue these hard-hitting, hard-fighting, toothy, apex predators also include Bear Lake and the Cassadaga Lakes. Here at Chautauqua Lake, the angler inside word is that early netting operations confirm the fish are in good shape for 2025.

Some of New York’s other popular waters for big muskies include the St. Lawrence River and Upper Niagara River. Other quality inland fisheries include Waneta Lake, Greenwood Lake, the Susquehanna, Chenango and Great Chazy Rivers.

The new musky lures hang in colorful delight at the Chautauqua Reel Outdoors Tackle Shop, located at Ashville Bay Marina. The hot lures sell fast — the season starts June 1. Photo by Mike Sperry

In seminars and educational websites from the DEC, they share what many musky anglers already know. Pursuing muskies is a long-term endeavor. It is usually only for the most dedicated and committed anglers. Most of them admit they never stop learning. Fishing for these freshwater beasts can seriously test the resolve and commitment of any angler committed to the sport.

Now, the week ahead of the opener is the time to prepare. Muskie anglers must be willing to sacrifice their time on the water, often in less than ideal conditions. Then, immediately after, as soon as the fish is landed, the only goal for many musky anglers is to release the trophy as quickly as possible. In that respect, muskie fishing may seem to be a dizzy exercise, but that’s just not what it’s all about. Treasure the special moments and memories. Bring a camera. Get ready for next week.

We Gotta love the outdoors.

Outdoor Calendar

May 25: Chautauqua Lake Bassmasters 2025 Crappie Open Tournament, 6:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Lakewood Dog Park Boat launch, 2 adults and 1 child allowed per boat; $100 entry per boat. Tournament Director: 716-708-0330.

May 25: Chautauqua Lake Bassmasters 2025 Crappie Open Tournament, 6:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Lakewood Dog Park Boat launch, 2 adults and 1 child allowed per boat; $100 entry per boat. Tournament Director: 716-708-0330.

June 1: NYS opening day inland musky season.