The Northern Pike, also known as Esox Lucius, is an impressive fish that you can encounter in the rivers and lakes of the Benelux and beyond. Here are ten fun facts about this special fish:
1. Scientific Classification
The Northern Pike (Northern Pike) belongs to the family Esocidae. This fish species is distinguished by its light spots and the rounded ends of the tail fin, which differentiates it from the Muskellunge or American pike.
2. Lifespan
In the wild, Northern Pikes can reach an impressive age of 15 to 25 years. In captivity, their lifespan is shorter, averaging between 7 and 10 years.
3. Physical Characteristics
The Northern Pike is known for its striking physical features. Below is an overview of the main characteristics:
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Table 1: Physical properties of the northern pike |
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Characteristic |
Males |
Females |
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Average Length |
28 to 68 cm |
48 to 76 cm |
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Maturity |
Within 4 to 5 years |
Within 5 to 6 years |
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Average Weight |
2.3 to 4.5 kg |
2.3 to 4.5 kg |
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Maximum Length |
Up to about 85 cm |
Can reach 1.40 meters |
These differences in size and growth rate between male and female pikes highlight their unique biological traits. Females tend to grow larger than males, a pattern often observed in many fish species.
4. Swimming Speed
Northern Pikes are known for their impressive speed in the water, especially during hunting. Here are some details about their swimming behavior:
- Normal Swimming Speed: Northern Pikes typically move through the water at speeds of 12 to 16 km/h.
- Hunting Strategy: These fish specialize in ambush hunting. They approach their prey quietly and inconspicuously.
- Acceleration: When prey comes within reach, pikes can suddenly accelerate up to 40 km/h. This explosive speed is used to surprise and efficiently catch unsuspecting prey.
This combination of patience and speed makes the northern pike an effective and fascinating predator.
5. Reproduction
The spawning period takes place in early spring, usually around March and April. The eggs hatch within a period of one to four weeks. They choose shallow, vegetation-rich areas to lay their eggs.
6. Habitat
The Northern Pike prefers cool water and is often found in slow-flowing rivers and vegetation-rich lakes and bays.
7. Diet
As a carnivorous fish, the Northern Pike feeds on other fish, but amphibians, waterfowl, snakes, and sometimes small mammals are also part of their diet. They hunt by striking from an ambush.
8. Bait and Lures
Effective bait and lures for catching Northern Pikes include spoons, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater lures and live bait such as roach or common bream.
9. Appearance
The northern pike has a long, slender body with a large mouth full of sharp teeth, ideal for predatory behavior. Their back is dark olive green with a creamy-colored belly and striking yellow to white spots on the flanks.
10. Catch-and-Release and Respect for the Northern Pike
Although the meat of the Northern Pike is known for its taste, in many regions, including the Benelux, it is not allowed to take these fish home. This is due to the emphasis on preserving the pike population and respecting their role in the ecosystem. The practice of catch-and-release is strongly encouraged, meaning that anglers treat the pike with care and respect after catching it and then release it back into its natural habitat. This contributes to maintaining a healthy pike population and ensures a sustainable fishing experience for future generations.
Bonus Fact
The record catch of a Northern Pike in the Benelux is an impressive 138 cm, caught in 2019. This catch shows the impressive size these fish can reach under the right conditions.
