- 40" Tiger Muskie - Mayfield Lake
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One of Washington's most underrated fisheries is targeting Tiger Muskie. Members of the pike family, this hybrid but sterile cross between a Northern Pike and a Muskellunge is a voracious predator and can grow up to 30 lbs.
Department of Fish & Wildlife began stocking seven lakes in Washington State as a way to keep "junk fish" populations in check. Tigers will hunt fish like perch, sunfish pike minnow and suckers in weed beds. State law requires that you release any tiger muskie under 50" in length.
- Tiger Release
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In the summer months it's a little easier to target Tigers or at least see them sunning themselves in the weed beds or near sunken logs or trees. Many of these fish you can can cast at all day long without a take. It's the ones you don't see that sometimes strike. There's a good reason they call Tiger Muskies "The Fish of 10,000 Casts". They have little fear and will often follow your lure right to the boat; many times turning or stopping just short of you reeling in.
I've had the opportunity to fish for Tiger Muskies on Lake Tapps, Mayfield Lake and Lake Curlew from my kayak. I can count on two hands the number of times I've hooked into a fish and on two fingers the fish that I've landed. I always make sure I've got the appropriate tackle to handle these toothy fish. Strong steel leaders or 80 lb mono, long needle nose pliers, wire cutters and a large landing net or cradle. Large, jointed stick baits or Bucktail Spinners work well but you'll find a few bass fisherman that reluctantly get into them throwing smaller presentations.
- Grip & Grin
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Last year I landed a 30 inch fish and this year a 40 inch monster that went airborne three times before I could safely land her in shore. Get out there and give it a try but be kind to these fish!
