Although the traditional trout season is closed, anglers can take advantage of productive Fall fishing opportunities for other noteworthy gamefish such as those in the Esocid family, including muskellunge, tiger muskellunge (pike + muskellunge hybrid), northern pike, and chain pickerel.

Fall is an excellent time to target these species as they feed heavily in preparation for the long winter ahead and their Spring spawning seasons. Cool nights and shorter days seem to trigger Esocids into actively feeding after the doldrums of summer. Fall is often considered the best time to capture trophy specimens. Common tactics include casting or trolling baits that imitate fish, a common food item for these species. Popular lures include large stickbaits, metal spoons, soft plastic swimbaits, chatterbaits, bucktail spinners and streamer style flies. Noisy topwater lures that “move water” are also effective. Don’t be afraid to use larger than average baits, this is the time of year when the largest fish are feeding! Esocids are ambush predators, utilizing their camouflage to hide perfectly still to suddenly charge and attempt to consume passing prey. If you miss a strike, cast right back into the same area, these aggressive fish will often make multiple attempts to capture your offering.

Whether you are fishing a river or lake, key spots to focus your efforts on include: any remaining live vegetation beds (look for green vegetation vs. brown), submerged logs/timber, slow eddies near current seams or anywhere where an abundance of prey fish species are observed. Pike, musky and pickerel can be found in dozens of waterbodies across the state and provide a great opportunity to land a high-quality sportfish before its time to pack the gear away for winter. For locations to target these species visit our website for Muskie, Pike, Tiger Muskie and Pickerel Fishing Opportunities, check out the Tackle Box feature in the HuntFishNY mobile app, or contact your Regional DEC Fisheries Office.

Esocid Seasons:

• Muskellunge (Statewide): June 1 - November 30
• Muskellunge/Tiger Muskellunge (Great Lakes and Tributaries): June 15 -December 15
• Tiger Muskellunge, Pickerel, Northern Pike (Statewide): May 1 - March 1

Before venturing out, check the current Freshwater Fishing Regulations to do your part in making sure these populations remain healthy for future generations to enjoy!