Identification and Reproduction

Identification: 

• The Northern pike is a large, carnivorous fish. 
• It has an elongated body and on average grow between 40-55 cm long. They have been known to grow up to one meter long. 

• Snout is narrow and pointed with a series of large teeth in the lower jaw. 
• They have a dorsal fin and anal fin that are opposite, near the tail.  
• Scales cover their entire cheek. 
• They are typically dark shades of green to brown with a light coloured underbelly. They are flecked with light golden green curved lines along the sides.  

• Eyes are yellow and very mobile. 

Reproduction: 

• Northern pike are regarded as random spawning fish. Females will broadcast their eggs randomly over vegetation and be fertlized by the males. 
• They spawn in shallow waters when temperatures are between 4-7^oC. 
• Eggs take two weeks to hatch. 
• Fertilized eggs attach to aquatic vegetation. 
• Parent pikes are not involved in raising the young. 

Habitat & Ecology

• It can be found in freshwaters as well as brackish waters. 
• They have been observed in a variety of freshwater bodies, ranging from cold deep lakes, warm shallow ponds and even muddy rivers. 
• They are very adaptable and can survive in a wide range of water temperatures, clarity and oxygen levels. 
• Northern pike are very territorial and are typically solitary. 
• Adult pike will feed on frogs, crayfish, mice, muskrats and young waterfowl. 
• Northern pikes can live up 12 years. 

Impacts

• They predate on native species and put native cyprinids and salmonids at risk. 
• Have known to hybridize with the native fish, muskellunge (Esox masquinongy). 
• Known as a nuisance as it feeds on other game fish such as trout, bass and perch. 
• Their presence can change the biodiversity of a waterbody. 

Management

• Do not move Northern pike from one waterbody to another. 
• If you catch a pike do not release it back into the water. 
• Please report any sightings of a Northern pike. It is helpful to include pictures, date and location. 

Resources

For more information please refer to the Animal Diversity Web datapage on Esox lucius: American pike. 

Fisheries and Oceans Canada provides a brief factpage to help identify the Northern Pike as well as several ofther resources. 

Header photo (Elendal).