Pike Research

[Natebg1]

So I decided to really start digging and do some serious research and ended up coming across some interesting stuff that certainly explains a lot about the actions being taken on the Pend Oreille River. A study was done by the University of Idaho and this is what was quoted in regards to the Norther Pike feeding habits in Montana.

“We found that they are eating everything down there,” Muhfeld said. The most common prey was whitefish, suckers and red-sided shiners. But at certain times of year, the most available menu entrees are migrating cutthroats and bull trout.

Here is the link to the actual study: http://www.cbbulletin.com/Free/272135.aspx" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Here is an article on what Minnesota's DNR is doing to protect the Pike and create a Giant Pike Fishery: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/volunteer/ja ... ement.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

The study done by the University of Idaho certainly helps to sum up why the Pike are looked at in such a negative light here in Washington. I think the real key to the fishery on the Pend Oreille River is education and giving others a thorough understanding of the situation at hand. I am sure it is going to take time, but the biggest factor is to get someone to approve getting those nets out of the water. That will change everything and will certainly give the Pike the ability to grow and mature in size. Enjoy reading, Tight Lines

Nate

[AJ's Dad]

Very enlightenting information Nate. I will now refrain from thinking that pike, west slope cutthroats and bull trout do not inhabit the same waters. However I still believe the trout species are endangered more by the dams than they are by the pike. That said, I know the dams aren't going any where and I wouldn't want them to. I believe the pike situation on the POR is being handled a bit irresponsibly and one sided but like they say, "That's the way it goes" especially when big money is involved. MAnagement of these fish was never an option. Eradication was the target from the start.

Excellent research. Thanks for the info.

I still say,

"Catch and release baby"
"Whether they like ti or not"