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Fish Species - Details
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NORTHERN PIKE
(Esox lucius)
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Other Common Names
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Pike, great northern pike, pickerel
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Identifying Characteristics
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Body color varies from green to brown.
The sides have light spots on a dark background.
Entire cheek has scales, but only the upper portion of gill cover does.
Fins are heavily spotted or mottled.
5 sensory pores are found on each side of the lower jaw.
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Habits and Habitat
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A solitary fish that frequents cool, sluggish waters of lakes and streams.
Often found in shallow water over weed beds or structure.
Feeds primarily on fish such as perch and suckers, but also eats insects, crayfish, frogs, and
snakes.
Spawns in shallow areas in spring.
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Tackle and Techniques
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Cast or troll using medium- to heavy-weight bait-casting tackle.
Steel leaders will prevent a lot of cutoffs.
Still-fish with live suckers or chubs under a bobber.
Medium-size spinners, spoons, and plugs work well.
Often caught through the ice on live chubs or dead smelt.
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Current State Record
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46 pounds, 2 ounces; caught by Peter Dubuc on Great Sacandaga Lake on September 15, 1940.
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© Sander's Fishing Guides, Inc.
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