Northern Pike

NORTHERN PIKE

 

Loved by some, hated by others, the northern pike has a unique status as both native game fish and invasive exotic in Alaska. Recently (and illegally) introduced to some Southcentral lakes, the voracious pike is wreaking havoc among native fishes of that area. Averaging 5-12 lbs, the pike can reach weights in excess of 40 lbs and lengths of 4 feet or more.  The best fishing is often during the months of May when pike is spawning in the shallows, and October, when the last of the seasonal feeding opportunities cause them to gorge on most any food source they come across.

  • Size
    Length to 4 feet, weight to 40 lbs.
  • Lifespan
    20+ years
  • Distribution/Range
    Europe, Asia, Siberia, Arctic North America, with most populations found north of latitude 40° N
  • Diet
    Invertebrates, fishes, small mammals and waterfowl
  • Predators
    Larger pike, otters, hawks, burbot, humans
  • Reproduction
    Sexual maturity at four to six years, females carry over 100,000 eggs
  • Other Names
    Northern, Water Wolf
  • Remarks
    Native to northern and western Alaska; introduced to the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, around Anchorage, and lakes on the Kenai Peninsula
Northern Pike