Food availability influences angling vulnerability in muskellunge

Abstract Reduced food availability increases the capture of several fish species, although mechanisms responsible for how resources result in increased are undefined. Our objective was to quantify mechanism by which might influence angling vulnerability muskellunge ( Esox masquinongy ). We assessed rates field under different levels, quantified behaviors that were either fed or deprived, and determined if appetite‐related hormones leptin ghrelin affected behavior. Catch fasted more than twice as high those muskellunge. However, deprivation hormonal treatments did not laboratory behavior, suggested catch food‐deprived because receptive lures. Furthermore, an ecosystem approach should be used consider forage a component management goals.