Fishing tip

Northern Pike | A Freshwater Predator

Northern Pike in the wild
Northern Pike in the wild

Basic Info

  1. Common Name: Northern Pike
  2. Scientific Name: Esox lucius
  3. Group Name: Esocidae (Pike family)
  4. Average Life Span In The Wild: 10-15 years
  5. Size: Can grow up to 5 feet long
  6. Weight: Can weigh up to 50 pounds

Behavior

Northern Pike are solitary and territorial fish, known for their ambush hunting strategy. They rely on their excellent camouflage and patience to surprise their prey. Pike are primarily piscivores, meaning they feed mainly on other fish, but they also consume amphibians, birds, and small mammals when available.

How to Identify a Northern Pike

Identifying a Northern Pike is relatively straightforward due to its distinctive features.

  1. Body Shape: The Northern Pike has a long, cylindrical body that tapers towards the tail. This streamlined shape aids in its ability to make quick, sudden movements in pursuit of prey.
  2. Coloration: The body is typically olive green, with lighter shades on the sides and a white or yellowish belly. The sides are marked with pale, irregular, bean-shaped spots. This coloration provides excellent camouflage among aquatic vegetation.
  3. Head and Mouth: The pike’s head is elongated with a flattened snout, resembling that of a duck’s bill. Its mouth is large, with a set of sharp, backward-pointing teeth designed to grip slippery prey.
  4. Fins: The dorsal and anal fins are positioned far back on the body, which contributes to the pike’s explosive acceleration. These fins are often a reddish or orange color.

Northern pike are fascinating creatures that play an important role in freshwater ecosystems. Their predatory nature helps to control populations of smaller fish, while their distinctive appearance and large size make them a popular target for anglers.

Some pictures of Northern Pike

Northern Pike in the wild