{"id":25978,"date":"2023-09-26T09:39:26","date_gmt":"2023-09-26T07:39:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/?p=25978"},"modified":"2023-11-11T00:07:33","modified_gmt":"2023-11-10T23:07:33","slug":"interesting-pike-facts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/interesting-pike-facts\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Interesting Pike Facts (Plus 10 Little-Known Bonus Facts)"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:84.655172413793%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:72.586206896552%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:84.655172413793%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Explore the mysterious world of the northern pike &ndash; the giant and powerful freshwater predator that fascinates sport anglers and biologists alike.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With razor-sharp teeth, lightning-fast speed, and a stealthy approach, this fish symbolizes underwater prowess.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>But there&rsquo;s more to this predator than meets the eye. From awe-inspiring hunting strategies and remarkable adaptive abilities to ancient fossils, this article unveils 30 fascinating and little-known pike facts that will leave you in awe!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you ready to explore the untamed wilderness of freshwater habitats and uncover the secrets of one of the most intriguing freshwater fish species out there? Let&rsquo;s get started, then!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>PRO TIP<\/strong>: Need to gear up for your next pike adventure? Then check out this quality equipment on Amazon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s very cost-effective, durable, and will land you plenty of trophy pike!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Croix-Premier-6-6ft-Casting-Rod\/dp\/B000BNYB74?th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=strikeandcatc-20&amp;linkId=5921310378546eed9b019b49201183ce&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\"><strong><\/strong><\/a><strong><a aria-label=\"7' MH St. Croix Premier Casting Rod\n (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Croix-Premier-6-6ft-Casting-Rod\/dp\/B000BNYB74?th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=strikeandcatc-20&amp;linkId=5921310378546eed9b019b49201183ce&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">7&prime; MH St. Croix Premier Casting Rod<\/a><\/strong><\/strong> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a aria-label=\"Abu Garcia Revo Beast 41 Baitcasting Reel (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Abu-Garcia-Beast-Profile-Casting\/dp\/B07GPC8TQM?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=strikeandcatc-20&amp;linkId=03daefffc052f8fc81e7c9b649d9f1f3&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">Abu Garcia Revo Beast 41 Baitcasting Reel<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B0013BPDWA?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=strikeandcatc-20&amp;linkId=487e4f8ccedfdabb1047bb038ca55299&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"StowMaster Pike and Musky Landing Net (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">StowMaster Pike and Musky Landing Net<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">20 Interesting Facts About Northern Pike<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-editorskit-rounded\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n.jpg\" alt=\"a sport angler on a boat holding a fat fall pike\" class=\"wp-image-25985\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n.jpg 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n-480x360.jpg 480w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20580%20435'%3E%3Crect%20width='580'%20height='435'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"a sport angler on a boat holding a fat fall pike\" class=\"wp-image-25985 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n.jpg.webp 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n-480x360.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n-320x240.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/368570646_843670547116443_5231677336673527532_n-150x113.jpg.webp 150w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Scientific Classification:<\/strong>&nbsp;Pike, or northern pike, scientifically known as <a aria-label=\"Esox lucius (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Northern_pike\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">Esox lucius<\/a>, belong to the Esocidae family and are one of its largest members. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Only the North American muskellunge, or musky, beats the pike in length and weight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Geographic Distribution:<\/strong>&nbsp;As the name so aptly suggests, northern pike are found in freshwater habitats across the northern hemisphere, including North America and Eurasia, highlighting their wide geographic distribution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Varied Diet:<\/strong>&nbsp;One of the most interesting facts about pike is their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fisheriesireland.ie\/sites\/default\/files\/2021-11\/pike-research-programme-scientific-faqs_0.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"opportunistic feeding behavior (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">opportunistic feeding behavior<\/a>. They are known for targeting whichever prey is available and most abundant in any given water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They can also quickly change their dietary preferences depending on the decline and rise of other fish species.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Research and Management:<\/strong>&nbsp;Advancements in research techniques have led to paradigm shifts in the science and management of pike, focusing on spawning habitat identification, habitat restoration, genetics, and selective mortality.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-editorskit-rounded\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/nathan-edgell.jpg\" alt=\"a northern pike in shallow water\" class=\"wp-image-25986\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/nathan-edgell.jpg 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/nathan-edgell-150x127.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/nathan-edgell.jpg.webp\" alt=\"a northern pike in shallow water\" class=\"wp-image-25986 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/nathan-edgell.jpg.webp 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/nathan-edgell-150x127.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/nathan-edgell.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Courtesy of Nathan Edgell<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>5. Spawning Season:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern pike typically spawn in the spring, with females laying thousands of eggs in vegetated areas of freshwater habitats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Generally speaking, their spawning season stretches from March to May, depending on local conditions and temperatures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6. Growth Rate:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern pike are known for their rapid growth rate, with some individuals reaching impressive sizes in suitable environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>RELATED ARTICLE: <a href=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/how-big-do-pike-get\/\" class=\"ek-link\">What Is the Maximum Size of Pike?<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-editorskit-rounded\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63.jpg\" alt=\"a happy angler holding a big northern pike\" class=\"wp-image-25987\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63.jpg 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63-480x360.jpg 480w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63.jpg.webp\" alt=\"a happy angler holding a big northern pike\" class=\"wp-image-25987 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63.jpg.webp 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63-480x360.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63-320x240.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63-150x113.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-63.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>7. Sharp Teeth:<\/strong>&nbsp;Equipped with sharp, backward-facing teeth, pike are very effective and highly evolved predators, capable of catching and holding onto their prey with ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>8. Solitary Nature:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern pike are generally solitary fish, preferring to hunt and live alone, which adds to the mystique surrounding these freshwater hunters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>9. Sport Fishing:<\/strong>&nbsp;Pike are popular targets for sport anglers, offering a challenging and rewarding fishing experience due to their impressive size, strength, and agility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are a hugely popular game fish in both Europe, the US, Canada, England, Russia, and parts of China. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>10. Coloration and Appearance:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern pike exhibit a distinctive appearance with a sleek, elongated body, olive-green coloration, and lighter, bean-shaped spots along their flanks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>RELATED ARTICLE: <a href=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/northern-pike\/\" class=\"ek-link\">The Mighty Pike &ndash; A Complete Species Guide<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>11. Lifespan:<\/strong>&nbsp;In the wild, northern pike can live up to 25 years, showcasing their longevity and resilience in diverse aquatic environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>12. Ecological Role:<\/strong>&nbsp;As apex predators, pike play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems by controlling the population of smaller fish species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>13. Conservation Efforts:<\/strong>&nbsp;Conservation initiatives aim to protect northern pike habitats and address the challenges posed by habitat degradation and pollution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>14. Adaptations:<\/strong>&nbsp;Pike possess several amazing adaptations that enhance their predatory efficiency, including keen eyesight and a streamlined body.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-editorskit-rounded\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"421\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/269570538_353192406148550_5776916147890944906_n-min-min.jpg\" alt=\"a predator angler holding a very long and strong pike\" class=\"wp-image-25988\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/269570538_353192406148550_5776916147890944906_n-min-min.jpg 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/269570538_353192406148550_5776916147890944906_n-min-min-150x109.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"421\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/269570538_353192406148550_5776916147890944906_n-min-min.jpg.webp\" alt=\"a predator angler holding a very long and strong pike\" class=\"wp-image-25988 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/269570538_353192406148550_5776916147890944906_n-min-min.jpg.webp 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/269570538_353192406148550_5776916147890944906_n-min-min-150x109.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/269570538_353192406148550_5776916147890944906_n-min-min.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Courtesy of Tobias Ekvall<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>15. Record Size:<\/strong>&nbsp;The record for the largest northern pike ever caught is held by a fish weighing 55 pounds and 1 ounce, showcasing the potential size these fish can attain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This All-Tackle world record pike was caught in Germany in 1986. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are reports of even bigger pike that have been caught in both Europe and North America. The weights of most of these fish are, however, not officially confirmed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>16. Myths and Legends:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern pike are featured in various myths and legends, often depicted as formidable and mysterious creatures of the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>17. Research Contributions:<\/strong>&nbsp;Studies on Northern Pike have contributed valuable insights into fish behavior, ecology, and the impact of human activities on aquatic habitats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>18. Climate Change Impact:<\/strong>&nbsp;Climate change appears to pose some <a href=\"https:\/\/cdnsciencepub.com\/doi\/abs\/10.1139\/cjfas-2020-0386#:~:text=Warmer%20water%20increases%20early%20body,impact%20on%20decreasing%20body%20sizes\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"challenges (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">challenges<\/a> to northern pike populations, as a warming climate can affect their distribution, spawning habitats, and prey availability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>19. Recreational Value:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern pike fishing contributes to recreational tourism, attracting anglers seeking the thrill of catching this impressive predator all around the northern hemisphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>20. Symbol of Wilderness:<\/strong>&nbsp;For many, the pike symbolizes the untamed wilderness of freshwater habitats, representing the beauty and complexity of aquatic life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\">\n\n\n\n<p>Now that we have covered all the basics let&rsquo;s move on to some of the lesser-known and more awe-inspiring pike fish facts!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10 Awe-Inspiring Pike Facts<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-editorskit-rounded\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/raymond-young.jpg\" alt=\"a fishing guide on a boat holding a huge northern pike\" class=\"wp-image-25990\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/raymond-young.jpg 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/raymond-young-150x127.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/raymond-young.jpg.webp\" alt=\"a fishing guide on a boat holding a huge northern pike\" class=\"wp-image-25990 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/raymond-young.jpg.webp 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/raymond-young-150x127.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/raymond-young.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Courtesy of Raymond Young<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>21. Cannibalistic Tendencies:<\/strong>&nbsp;One of the lesser-known pike fish facts is their cannibalistic nature. Juvenile pike often form a significant portion of an adult pike&rsquo;s diet, indicating their opportunistic and predatory feeding habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>22. Ambush Predators:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern Pike are expert ambush predators. They use their body coloration to blend with their surroundings and lie in wait for unsuspecting prey, striking with lightning-fast speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>23. High-Speed Swimmers:<\/strong>&nbsp;Northern pike can reach swimming speeds of up to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.anglingdirect.co.uk\/species-guide\/pike-esox-lucius\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"10 mph (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">10 mph<\/a> (16 km\/h), making them one of the fastest freshwater fish and enabling them to catch various types of prey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Their initial burst speed can be even higher!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>24. Sensory Pores:<\/strong>&nbsp;Pikes are equipped with sensory pores on their lower jaw, which they use to detect pressure changes and locate prey, even in very murky and dark waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>25. Egg-Laying Capacity:<\/strong>&nbsp;A single adult female northern pike can lay between 200,000 and 500,000 eggs during the spawning season, ensuring the continued survival and proliferation of the species in many waters.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-editorskit-rounded\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n.jpg\" alt=\"a massive northern pike beneath the ice of a lake\" class=\"wp-image-25989\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n.jpg 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n-480x360.jpg 480w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"580\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n.jpg.webp\" alt=\"a massive northern pike beneath the ice of a lake\" class=\"wp-image-25989 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n.jpg.webp 580w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n-480x360.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n-320x240.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n-150x113.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/271593419_1626268347708552_4205893476100089111_n.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A giant winter pike beneath the ice<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>26. Winter Survival:<\/strong>&nbsp;Pike can survive in oxygen-poor waters during winter, slowing their metabolism and utilizing anaerobic respiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>27. Unique Hunting Strategy:<\/strong>&nbsp;They employ a unique hunting strategy known as &ldquo;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5590994\/\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"lateral compression (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">lateral compression<\/a>,&rdquo; where they approach prey sideways, reducing water displacement and avoiding detection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>28. Symbolism in Heraldry:<\/strong>&nbsp;The northern pike is often used as a symbol in heraldry, representing military prowess and sharpness of mind due to its predatory nature and sleek appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>29. Fossil Record:<\/strong>&nbsp;Archeologists have found fossils of pike that date back to the Pleistocene era, indicating that these fish have been successful predators for tens of thousands of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>30. Albinism in Pike:<\/strong>&nbsp;Albino pike, although extremely rare, have been documented. These unique individuals lack pigmentation, resulting in a completely white appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Essential Gear Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for solid and reliable pike fishing equipment, these tips might be useful for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following tackle is of top quality and sells at a very reasonable price on Amazon: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rod: <a aria-label=\"7' MH St. Croix Premier Casting Rod\n (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Croix-Premier-6-6ft-Casting-Rod\/dp\/B000BNYB74?th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=strikeandcatc-20&amp;linkId=5921310378546eed9b019b49201183ce&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">7&prime; MH St. Croix Premier Casting Rod<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A versatile and beautifully made medium-heavy 7&prime; baitcasting rod that&rsquo;s perfect for bigger predators. Casts anything up to 2.5 ounces extremely well. Has an awesome balance, action, and sensitivity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reel: <a aria-label=\"Abu Garcia Revo Beast 41 Baitcasting Reel (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Abu-Garcia-Beast-Profile-Casting\/dp\/B07GPC8TQM?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=strikeandcatc-20&amp;linkId=03daefffc052f8fc81e7c9b649d9f1f3&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">Abu Garcia Revo Beast 41 Baitcasting Reel<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An affordable, high-performance baitcasting reel with amazing strength. Casts super smoothly and will last you forever! Makes for a great pike combo together with the Ugly Stick!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mainline: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B003CUM8AA\/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B003CUM8AA&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=strikeandcatc-20&amp;linkId=348c4d6ef9736a2ce1fb694931aec368\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">Power Pro Spectra<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best braids available today. Zero stretch, great feel, and immense strength make this line the perfect pick for pike in both open and snaggy waters. Put on a 30lb test and you&rsquo;re good to go.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Articles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/pike-vs-musky\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Pike vs. Musky (How Are They Different?)<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/different-names-for-northern-pike\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Different Names for Northern Pike<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/when-do-pike-spawn\/\" class=\"ek-link\">When Do Pike Spawn?<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>But there&#8217;s more to this predator than meets the eye. From awe-inspiring hunting strategies and remarkable adaptive abilities to ancient fossils, this article unveils 30 fascinating and little-known pike facts that will leave you in awe!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":25984,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":0,"_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","ub_ctt_via":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1703,1711,1704],"tags":[270,33,18,492],"table_tags":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Max Loesche","author_link":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/author\/max-loeschegmail-com\/"},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min.jpg",1200,800,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-1024x683.jpg",1024,683,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-768x512.jpg",768,512,true],"large":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min.jpg",1200,800,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min.jpg",1200,800,false],"post-thumbnail":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-728x410.jpg",728,410,true],"mv_trellis_1x1":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-728x728.jpg",728,728,true],"mv_trellis_3x4":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-546x728.jpg",546,728,true],"mv_trellis_4x3":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-728x546.jpg",728,546,true],"mv_trellis_4x3_high_res":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-728x546.jpg",728,546,true],"mv_trellis_4x3_med_res":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-480x360.jpg",480,360,true],"mv_trellis_4x3_low_res":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-320x240.jpg",320,240,true],"mv_trellis_16x9":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-728x410.jpg",728,410,true],"mv_trellis_srcset-960":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-960x640.jpg",960,640,true],"mv_trellis_srcset-1080":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-1080x720.jpg",1080,720,true],"1200x1200":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min.jpg",1200,800,false],"web-stories-poster-portrait":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-640x800.jpg",640,800,true],"web-stories-publisher-logo":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-96x96.jpg",96,96,true],"web-stories-thumbnail":["https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Untitled-design-8-min-150x100.jpg",150,100,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Max Loesche","author_link":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/author\/max-loeschegmail-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"But there's more to this predator than meets the eye. From awe-inspiring hunting strategies and remarkable adaptive abilities to ancient fossils, this article unveils 30 fascinating and little-known pike facts that will leave you in awe!","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25978"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25978"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25978\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":26034,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25978\/revisions\/26034"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25984"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25978"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25978"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25978"},{"taxonomy":"table_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/strikeandcatch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/table_tags?post=25978"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}