How to Identify Northern Pike

The northern pike is a predatory fish renowned for its sharp teeth. In North America, the pike is found throughout most of Canada and across the northern portion of the U.S. as far west as Montana. It is a close relative to fish such as the muskellunge and pickerel. The northern pike is caught in the warm months with a rod and reel and in the winter through the ice.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Step 1

Identify the northern pike by its torpedo shape, its very large and wide head that has a flattened mouth and by its many sharp teeth.

Step 2

Look for an olive green body that will have yellow spots or bars arranged in rows down its body.

Step 3

Identify the northern pike by the placement of its dorsal fin. Observe this fin situated a few inches from the tail and on the pike's back.

Step 4

Check its size, as a northern pike can often exceed 40 inches in length and weigh as much as 40 pounds. Realize though that typical specimens will be in the 30 inch range and weigh around 15 pounds.

Step 5

Identify the northern pike by the orange color of its fins and by the forked tail, a distinction which sets it apart from its cousin, the muskellunge.

Step 6

Check the location. The northern pike will live in cool water areas in lakes and rivers where there is sufficient vegetation to hide it as it waits in ambush for other fish.

Article Written By John Lindell

John Lindell has written articles for "The Greyhound Review" and various other online publications. A Connecticut native, his work specializes in sports, fishing and nature. Lindell worked in greyhound racing for 25 years.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...