Fin's Fish Guide
The Northern pike (Esox lucius) is a brackish-water fish of the family Esocidae that grows up to 137 cm.
Widespread in the northern hemisphere in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe, North Asia and North America.
Description
The northern pike is a large predatory fish of the family Esocidae reaching about 137 cm. The elongate, greenish mottled body has a long, flattened duck-bill snout with a wide mouth full of sharp teeth, and the dorsal and anal fins are set far back just in front of the tail. This build makes the pike a fast ambush hunter: from among the water plants it darts forward to seize fish, amphibians and sometimes waterbirds. The species occurs in fresh and slightly brackish water across the northern hemisphere and prefers clear, vegetation-rich water. It spawns early in spring in shallow margins. The pike is a popular sport fish and an important freshwater top predator.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Northern pike?
The Northern pike has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a spots pattern. Predator with a long, flattened snout like a duck's bill full of sharp teeth; the dorsal and anal fin are set far back, just before the tail.
Where does the Northern pike live?
The Northern pike lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in the northern hemisphere in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe, North Asia and North America.
How big does the Northern pike get?
The Northern pike grows to a maximum of about 137 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Northern pike dangerous to humans?
No, the Northern pike is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Northern pike edible?
Yes, the Northern pike is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Esox
More from the family Esocidae
Want the complete picture on the Northern pike?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Northern pike is one of 12,519 species in the app.