"MUSKIE: EVERGREEN LAKE - This lake was first stocked with muskie in 1990. In 2003, 1852 10 inch muskie were stocked from the State Hatchery System. During the fall night survey in 2002, the catch per hour of muskie was 10.0. In 2002, 75% of the muskie were over 30 inches in length, and 25% were over 38 inches. None of the fish collected exceeded the 48 inch length limit.

In 2002, a netting survey was initiated to monitor the muskie population. Each spring frame nets are used for three days to collect muskie. The muskie are tagged with an internal tag. The tag has an individual number so each fish can be tracked over time. From this information we can determine growth rates and condition of the fish over time. It has also provided some information on escapement from the lake for certain muskie. The McLean Co. Parks and Recreation Department has worked with local anglers to erect a barrier below the spillway to lower the escapement potential of muskie downstream.

We captured 1.2 muskie per net in 2002 and 2.6 per net in 2003, with a total of 95 muskie captured in 2003. Approximately 18% of the muskie captured in 2003 were larger than 38 inches and 3% were larger than 42 inches. The muskie exhibited ideal weights at all sizes. Muskie have now been in Evergreen Lake long enough to allow them to reach a large size. The muskie population in this lake is developing nicely and starting to show its true potential. "