Pronunciation: [mˈʌskɪlˌʌnd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
Muskelunge is a type of fish that is also known as "musky". The spelling of this word is a bit tricky as it does not follow typical English pronunciation rules. In IPA phonetic transcription, muskelunge is spelled as /ˈmʌskəˌlʌndʒ/. The initial "mus" is pronounced with a short "u" sound like in "rust", followed by a "k" sound. The "el" is pronounced as "uhl" and the final "-unge" is pronounced as "unj".
Muskelunge, also known as muskellunge or muskie, is a large freshwater fish species belonging to the family Esocidae. Scientifically known as Esox masquinongy, this predatory fish is native to North America, mainly found in the Great Lakes region and other lakes and rivers in the northern parts of the continent.
The muskelunge is widely sought after by anglers due to its impressive size, aggressive behavior, and challenging fight. With an elongated body and a powerful torpedo-like shape, it can grow up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) long and weigh over 60 pounds (27 kilograms). It has a distinctive coloration, featuring a dark greenish-gray or olive-green body with irregular markings and vertical bars along its sides.
Known for its voracious appetite, the muskelunge primarily feeds on smaller fish, such as perch, suckers, and trout, but it may also consume amphibians, reptiles, and even small mammals. It possesses sharp, canine-like teeth, ideally suited for catching and gripping prey.
Due to its fame as a thrilling sport fish, the muskelunge has been introduced into many other bodies of water across North America, making it popular in recreational fishing. It requires well-oxygenated, clear waters with abundant cover and prefers locations with submerged vegetation or fallen logs where it can ambush its prey.
In conclusion, the muskelunge is a large, predatory fish known for its size, strength, and aggressive behavior. It is highly valued by anglers for its sport fishing qualities and is a prized catch in many North American waterways.
The word muskelunge comes from the Ojibwe language, spoken by the Ojibwe people, a Native American tribe. In Ojibwe, the word maashkinoozhe or maashkinoosh means ugly pike or ugly marauder. The term is often used to refer to the muskellunge fish, which is native to North America, particularly in the Great Lakes region. Over time, the word was anglicized and shortened to muskelunge or muskie.
