Members Only
Members Only

Public Release Program

Recognizing anglers who practice catch-and-release

Program Overview

The Muskies Canada Public Release Program recognizes anglers who practice catch-and-release of muskellunge. Anglers who release a muskellunge of 36 inches or longer are eligible to receive a Certificate of Appreciation and a Release Award Decal in recognition of their commitment to the conservation of this iconic species.

This program encourages responsible angling and reinforces the conservation ethic that is central to Muskies Canada’s mission. Every muskellunge released back into the water contributes to the long-term health and sustainability of the fishery.

Why Release Matters

Muskellunge are a slow-growing, long-lived species that require careful management to sustain healthy populations. The biological realities of muskellunge reproduction make catch-and-release essential:

  • Muskellunge require almost 7 years to reach spawning maturity
  • Growth to 50 inches takes more than 20 years
  • Larger fish produce significantly greater egg quantities, contributing disproportionately to population recruitment
  • Released fish return to the wild to support natural reproduction and maintain genetic diversity
  • Fiberglass replica mounts can be created from photographs and measurements, preserving the memory of a trophy catch without removing the fish from the population

By releasing muskellunge, anglers directly support the future of the fishery and ensure that trophy-class fish remain in the water to reproduce and grow.

How to Participate

To submit a release and receive your Certificate of Appreciation and Release Award Decal, the following requirements must be met:

  • Valid fishing license for the jurisdiction where the fish was caught
  • Fish caught during the proper open season for muskellunge
  • Minimum fish length of 36 inches
  • Photograph of the fish (preferably showing the release)
  • Optional: written description of the catch and circumstances

Submit your release information and photograph to: publiceducation@muskiescanada.ca

Submit a Release

Know the difference

Know The Difference Signage Initiatives are part of Muskies Canada’s efforts to help educate the public to be able to recognize the difference between Muskie and Pike.

Muskies 101

So you want to fish for muskies? Here's what you need to know!

Support Muskellunge Conservation

Join Muskies Canada today and help protect one of North America’s most iconic freshwater species.

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