Unlike other fish in the Uk which have other family members the Pike is the sole member of the family Esocidae. This is a fortunte situation for smaller fish since Esox lucius has to be considered the most agressive freshwater fish in Uk rivers, lakes and canals.
Frequently, especially in the winter months when canals are clear (and the rivers if the rain would stop!!) Esox lucius can be seen motionless waitng for a stray fish to swim a little to close.
Alternately when chasing it's prey shoals small fish can be
seen jumping and breaking the surface in a frantic bid for
freedom.
Description
The pike is one of the biggest fish in Uk waters. It's body
is elongated and it has what can only be described as a flattened snout, somewhat like a duck's bill.
It's jaws are full of very strong and sharp teeth. The
lower jaw projects beyond the upper which gives the characteristic look of menace - especially to a small
roach!!
The overall colour is a greenish silver with black vertical
bands along it's flanks. Unlike the perch it has only a
single dorsal fin which is positioned towards it's caudal
(tail) fin.
Large specimens although not caught by rod and line have
been recorded up to six feet long although the Uk record
stands at 46lb 13oz.
Habitat
Esox lucius can be found throughout the Uk in rivers, lakes and canals. They are not a shoal fish and spend most of the year alone except in the breeding season.
Similar to the perch they favour deeper water in winter although they will move into shallow water to feed. In spring and summer they can be found in shallow water under cover of weed or tree roots where they lie in wait for fry.
Baits
Esox lucius will feed on any animal it believes it
can fit inside it's huge mouth this includes small fish, small mammals, birds and ducks - more likely ducklings.
As far as baits are concerned live baits (please check local rules) are most effective however dead baits lures and spinners will aslo work well.
Winter is an especially productive time for catching Pike since their prey i.e. small fish tend to shoal up and are less active at this time of year and therefore present an easy target.
If you would like to submit a picture of your latest pike
catch Click this link
