Fin's Fish Guide
The Jack pike (Dinolestes lewini) is a saltwater fish of the family Dinolestidae that grows up to 84 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; bays over rocky reefs and seagrass.
Description
The longfin pike is the only species of the family Dinolestidae and occurs in the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 84 cm and has an elongate, silvery, pike-like body with a large mouth with fine teeth and large eyes. It forms schools in bays over rocky reefs and in seagrass beds. As a fast, nocturnal predator it hunts small schooling fishes and crustaceans. The longfin pike is a local angling and food fish. Despite its pike-like appearance and teeth it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Jack pike?
The Jack pike has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Pike-like silvery body with large eyes; the only species in its family, a nocturnal shoal hunter.
Where does the Jack pike live?
The Jack pike lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Temperate waters around southern Australia; bays over rocky reefs and seagrass.
How big does the Jack pike get?
The Jack pike grows to a maximum of about 84 cm.
Is the Jack pike dangerous to humans?
No, the Jack pike is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Jack pike edible?
Yes, the Jack pike is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Jack pike?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Jack pike is one of 12,519 species in the app.