How To Catch & Release Pike

Catch and Release fishing is becoming more popular each year as anglers realize this conservation measure must be utilized if the fisheries are to remain healthy. In 1997, anglers fishing the Yukon-Kuskokwim-Tanana River drainages caught 60,220 northern pike and released 51,345 of these fish. Their sportsmanship is to be commended.

Use large size barbless hooks when you plan to release fish. Pliers can be used to pinch down barbs on conventional hooks. When you are about to land a fish, avoid removing it from the water; grasp the hook with long-nosed pliers and roll or back the hook out of the fish's mouth while not holding onto the fish unless absolutely necessary. A net can be helpful at this time to contain the fish. Pike will frequently lunge when first handled, and large fish can easily break the line or injure the angler if such behavior is not expected. Try to photograph fish while they are still in the water. Do not grasp pike by the eyes, as infection or blindness to the fish could result, instead, hold the fish by the tail and from behind the head and gill area. If the fish is hooked deeply and the lure cannot be removed safely, cut the leader close to the lure and release the fish. Non-stainless hooks will eventually dissolve through rusting action leaving the fish unharmed.

Introduction

Distribution in the Tanana River Valley

Age & Size of Interior Alaska pike

Spawning Biology

Where Pike Hang Out

Status of Tanana River pike fisheries

The Minto Flats northern pike fishery

Pike Conservation in Alaska

How to Catch & Release Pike

Tackle & Techniques

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