Distribution of northern pike in the Tanana River Valley
Pike live in waters throughout the Tanana River watershed in sloughs, lakes, streams, and even some man-created gravel pits, wherever they can successfully complete their life cycle. The most productive waters include the large wetland complex associated with the Minto Flats in the Tolovana River drainage; Lake Minchumina, East Twin, and West Twin lakes in the Kantishna River drainage; George, Volkmar, and Healy lakes near Delta Junction; the Chatanika River near Fairbanks; and the numerous waters located between Tok and the Canadian border including lakes and streams in the Tetlin National Refuge between Tetlin and Northway.
Few good pike fishing areas are accessible by automobile. Boat, airplane, or snowmachine travel is typically required to reach most of these locations. The best habitats for northern pike are in low-lying floodplains, lakes, and wetlands where nearby roads often do not exist. Anglers in search of more specific information on fishing for pike are encouraged to talk with state or federal fishery biologists, and to consult local fishing guides.
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