Leech Lake has a 54-inch minimum — one of the most restrictive muskie regulations in the country. Catch-and-release strongly encouraged.
Popular Minnesota Waters
Leech Lake
Lake Vermilion
Lake Minnetonka
Cass Lake
Tips for Minnesota Muskellunge (Muskie) Fishing
Leech Lake's 54-inch minimum makes it a true trophy-only fishery — and fish over 50 inches are realistic targets.
Common Questions
The statewide minimum is 36 inches, but Leech Lake requires 54 inches. The daily bag limit is 1 fish on all waters. Most serious muskie anglers practice catch-and-release regardless of regulations.
Important: Fishing regulations change annually. This page reflects regulations for 2026 but always verify current rules with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources before fishing. Some waters have special regulations that differ from the statewide rules.