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Re: Northorn Pike
I have found Northern Pike to be somewhat similar to chain pickerel,
except for the fact that pickerel like warmer water. Pike tend to
hang out in deeper, cooler water during the summer, at the edges of dropoffs,
weed beds, etc. Their preference for cooler water is reflected in
the fact that some of the best fishing for pike is in Canada, which
is not noted for having balmy water.
Live minnows, crayfish and other suitable sized morsels
should be OK, however, the size of the food will need to increase
considerably over time, to the point where you may need to go fishing
for panfish to feed the pike. Also, be aware that northern pike are longer
lived and get much larger than the foot-long grass pickerel often kept in
aquaria (US record northern pike is over 40 pounds, expect 20+ years of life in
a proper environment).
If you plan to keep these fish for an
extended period, perhaps an inground swimming pool set up as a
"natural aquarium" might provide appropriate housing. There was a
recent article by a Canadian gentleman in Tropical Fish Hobbyist that
discussed conversion of a swimming pool to a garden pond. As a side
benefit, you probably won't have to worry about what to do with excess
production of other fishes in your care or any unauthorized use of
the pool by the neighbors.