Movement, Home Range, and Habitat Selection of the Muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) in Thornapple Lake, Michigan
Chris Eilers
Muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) are popular game fish throughout Michigan. Due to habitat loss and competition from other species, muskellunge populations are typically sustained through stocking efforts by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). My research focuses on movement patterns of muskellunge in Thornapple Lake, one of the two sources of muskellunge broodstock (eggs and sperm) in Michigan. Muskellunge are implanted with ultrasonic transmitters in early April. These transmitters allow the fish to be relocated throughout the year. When a fish is located, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, water clarity, and depth are all recorded. This data will help us to better understand factors that drive muskellunge movement.