Why Wisconsin’s State Fish Is Called the Fish of 10,000 Casts

by Joseph Zheng, age 10

The muskellunge is the state fish of Wisconsin. This massive fish can grow up to around three feet and weigh about 67 pounds. The scientific name for the muskellunge is Esox masquinongy. However, it has earn the nickname “the fish of 10,000 casts,” because tends to avoid fishing lures and can be unpredictable.

The usual color for the muskellunge is a blend of green to dark green, although it can also be slightly gray. The muskellunge can swim up to 30 miles per hour. Its lifespan is typically about 12 to 18 years, but it can live up to 30 years.

From mid-April to mid-May, the female muskellunge gives birth to between 20,000 to 250,000 eggs. These eggs can stick to woody debris on rocks and sandy bottoms. Parents do not protect the eggs, so most eggs get eaten.

Adult muskellunge have a diet of suckers, carp, trout, minnows, perch, sunfish, and any other fish available in their habitat. Larger muskellunge will eat almost anything, including other muskellunge.

Muskellunge is a highly sought-after freshwater fish and can be found in some waters in Wisconsin. From their incredible size to their ranging colors, muskellunge plays an important role in the freshwater lake ecosystem. If you ever go fishing, see if you can find one of these fascinating creatures!

[Sources: Source: Fishes of Wisconsin; U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service; Species Profile; Fishing Wisconsin]