Pike  (Esox lucius)

Although pike need water high in oxygen and of low acidity, there does not appear to be any threats to population numbers in the UK. However, it is thought that over-fishing may be taking place in some other European countries (1999 figures).

Pike are a much-prized game fish and, in the UK, can be pursued by anglers throughout the season (16 June – 14 March), provided they hold a rod licence. There are no specific conservation measures currently in place for pike apart from general laws governing pollution of rivers and water bodies.

Pike have been introduced into several countries’ rivers to provide sport, and in some cases the fish have cause adverse ecological problems. Deliberately introducing pike to ponds in order to remove unwanted fish is a frequent practice in some areas and has to be monitored carefully.