Anglers unfamiliar with muskie often confuse them with northern pike. To tell the difference, count the sensory pores on the bottom of each side of the lower jaw and then determine how much of the cheek area is covered by scales. Muskie have six or more sensory pores on each side and scales cover only the top half of both cheeks. Northern pike usually have five sensory pores and cheeks are fully scaled. Muskie have up to three distinct color patterns, including green to silver 'clear' sides, dark spots or dark vertical bars.
Northern pike are typically green with light-colored small oval shaped markings.
Muskie are usually light with dark spots or bars. Northern Pike are usually dark with light bean-shaped spots. Muskie fishing regulations are designed to protect young muskie so they can grow to large sizes and give more anglers the chance of having their rod ripped from their hands by this massive saw-toothed fish.