Pike, or Northern Pike, are long, slender fish with a dark green to brownish-green colour on their backs, shading to a lighter green or yellowish-green on their sides and white on their belly.
The scales on a pike fish are relatively large and have a pattern that resembles the shape of pinecones. They have a single dorsal fin, located towards the back of their body, that runs along their entire back.
Pike are a predatorial fish and have a large mouth with sharp, needle-like teeth. Their teeth are arranged in rows, with the front teeth being larger than the ones towards the back of their mouth.
Habitat
Pike are freshwater fish that are found in a variety of habitats, including lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. They are native to the Northern Hemisphere and can be found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Pike prefer shallow water with lots of vegetation, where they can ambush their prey.
Feeding Habits
Pike are opportunistic predators, meaning they will eat just about anything they can catch. Their diet includes fish, frogs, crayfish, and even small mammals and birds that may be swimming or wading in the water. They are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful jaws, which allow them to swallow their prey whole.
Size and Lifespan
The lifespan of a pike can vary depending on their environment, but on average, they can live up to 15-20 years in the wild. Some have been known to live even longer in captivity.
Pike are one of the largest freshwater fish in North America and Europe, with some individuals growing up to 4 feet long and weighing over 50 pounds. However, most pike caught by anglers are smaller, typically between 20-30 inches in length.
Pike Fishing Records
Pike fare a popular game fish and have been known to grow to impressive sizes. Here are some of the current world records for pike fish:
- All-Tackle World Record: The current all-tackle world record for pike fish is held by Lothar Louis, who caught a 55-pound, 1-ounce (25 kg) northern pike in Lake of Grefeern, Germany, in 1986.
- Fly Fishing World Record: The current fly fishing world record for pike fish is held by Nick Hart, who caught a 48-pound, 0-ounce (21.8 kg) northern pike in Lough Derg, Ireland, in 2015.
- Ice Fishing World Record: The current ice fishing world record for pike fish is held by Juha-Pekka Vainikainen, who caught a 55-pound, 9-ounce (25.2 kg) northern pike in Lake Oulujärvi, Finland, in 2019.
It’s worth noting that there may be different records for different regions or organizations, but these are some of the most widely recognized records for pike fish.
How to catch a Pike
If you’re interested in catching a pike you’ll need to have the right equipment and know the right techniques. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Use the Right Tackle: Pike are strong fighters, so you’ll need a sturdy fishing rod and reel with a high-test line. A medium-heavy spinning rod is usually a good choice, with a reel that has a good drag system. Make sure to use a wire leader to prevent the pike’s sharp teeth from cutting your line.
- Choose the Right Bait: Pike will eat just about anything, but they tend to prefer live bait such as minnows or shiners. You can also use lures such as spinners, spoons, or crankbaits. Just make sure to choose a bait or lure that is appropriate for the size of the fish you’re targeting.
- Know Where to Look: Pike prefer shallow water with lots of vegetation, so look for areas with weeds, lily pads, or other aquatic plants. They also tend to hang out near drop-offs, underwater structures, or areas where there is a change in water temperature.
- Use the Right Technique: Once you’ve located a good spot, cast your bait or lure out and let it sink to the bottom. Then slowly reel it in, making sure to keep the line tight and feel for any bites. When you get a bite, set the hook firmly and start reeling in the fish.
Conclusion
Pike are an exciting and challenging fish to catch, with their aggressive strikes and powerful jaws. They can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats and are known for their voracious appetite. If you’re interested in catching a pike, make sure to use the right equipment and techniques, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different baits and lures until you find what works best for you.
