Northern pike could be an alternative predator species for larger ponds and lakes. Introduced populations of northern pike might adversely impact sport fisheries in Kentucky reservoirs. The muskellunge female is larger than the northern pike and produces more eggs of greater individual size. Egg incubation and fry feeding techniques are similar to those for the parent species. Fry are fed artificial diets or brine or ferry shrimp.
Artificial feed is introduced with automatic feeders at frequent intervals.
Constant-flow formalin treatments may be used in raceways, tanks and troughs to control gill fungus. Fingerlings which are 30 days old and 3 to 5 inches long, can be reared indoors at low densities. Warm water temperatures during summer would likely limit Tiger muskellunge culture in Kentucky. Boodstock acquisition, and the expense of eggs or fingerlings may further limit current production. Tiger muskellunge could potentially interfere with muskellunge stocking programs located in northeast, southeast and south-central regions of Kentucky.