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Northern Pike

Northern Pike

Northern Pike are not native to Arkansas and exist as introduced populations from historical stocking efforts between 1973-1988. These toothy predators are ambush hunters with elongated bodies, duck-bill snouts, and sharp canine teeth up to 1 inch long.

In Arkansas, pike populations are considered established but limited compared to their northern range, where they naturally thrive in colder waters.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Elongated bodies, duck-bill snouts, and sharp canine teeth up to 1 inch long.
  • They can grow quite large, with maximum lengths reaching 137cm and weights up to 62 pounds, though most caught will be in the 3-7 pound range.
  • They use their large caudal and rear dorsal fins for explosive bursts of speed.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer clear, slow-moving waters with vegetated areas where they lie in wait for prey.

Key Locations

  • According to official records, they were introduced to six Arkansas watersheds: Beaver Reservoir, Fourche La Fave, Illinois, Lower Little Arkansas, North Fork White, and Upper Ouachita.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on weeded areas, submerged logs, undercut banks, and drop-offs where baitfish congregate.

Northern Pike FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Northern Pike in Arkansas?

Spoons (1/4 to 1 ounce in gold/silver and local baitfish colors), soft plastic swimbaits from minnow-sized to life-size stocker fish in chartreuse, red, yellow, and white, and inline spinners with attention to blade selection for vibration.

When is the best time to fish for Northern Pike in Arkansas?

Most productive during cooler months, particularly winter through early spring before spawning begins, and again in fall. Avoid targeting pike during their early spring spawning period when water temperatures reach 40-45°F, as they become less aggressive feeders and are focused on reproduction.

How do you catch Northern Pike in Arkansas?

Cast past weedlines and slowly retrieve along the weeds, or use weedless presentations in heavy cover. When fishing drop-offs, maintain consistent retrieve speed as pike often follow lures before striking.

What do Northern Pike eat?

Pike are aggressive predators that feed on fish like yellow perch, chubs, suckers, walleye, and bass, as well as crawfish, frogs, mice, small birds, and even other pike - consuming prey up to one-third their body length.

Where do Northern Pike live in Arkansas?

They prefer clear, slow-moving waters with vegetated areas where they lie in wait for prey.

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