The Muskellunge Reintroduction Program

In the early 1900's muskellunge were abundant in the Lower Spanish River. However, in the 40's, 50's and 60's, industrial operations and over fishing caused significant aquatic degradation. As a result Muskellunge were extirpated by 1950’s. 

In 1980 the Lower Spanish River was designated an Area of Concern and a Remedial Action Plan was implemented. The second stage of the Remedial Action Plan was completed in 1999 and a new designation was established: the Lower Spanish River was now considered to be an "Area in Natural Recovery" and the reintroduction of musky could begin.

The Friends of the Spanish River, in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) have now completed the eight-year muskie restocking project and are celebrating a potential return of this prized trophy fish.

The following web pages feature highlights from the Muskellunge Reintroduction Program.

Our Successes - By Christine Selinger, MNR
An overview of the entire Muskellunge Reintroduction Program  by Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Biologist, Christine Selinger, as presented at the 'Muskie Merriment Celebration' at the Four Seasons Complex in the Township of Shedden, Ontario, on November 6th, 2003. Students, industry sponsors, non-profit organization members and key political figures attended.

The Role of Genetics in the Conservation & Management of Muskellunge in Ontario
By Michael Butler, Doctoral Candidate, Watershed Ecosystems Graduate Program, Trent University, as presented November 6th, 2003.

Muskie Student Exchange
This section details the final phase of the project in which nine area schools were invited to participate in the program for the second time. The reintroduction program and the 'Student Exchange' were wrapped up with at the "Muskie Merriment Celebration".

Adopt-A-Muskie
This section features the participation of students from schools along the Lower Spanish River. Presentations were made by MNR biologists and students were invited to enter an essay, poem or art contest.

Muskie Stocking
Highly detailed chart outlining the statistics and activities of the muskie reintroduction program from 1996 to the present.

Muskie Video
Video footage of various aspects of the muskie restocking program.