Northern Pike in Saskatchewan

Northern Pike (Esox lucius) is a very popular sports fish in Saskatchewan. They are very common and are widely distributed from the far north to the south of the province, and found in many lakes, reservoirs and rivers both large and small. We have records of them being reporting in 1,347 of the lakes on this site, and I'm sure they are in plenty more then that!

The Northern Pike can grow to be one of the larger fish in the province with recorded lengths of up to 59 inches (150 cm) and weights of up to 63 pounds (28.4 kg).

The name northern pike actually refers to the fish's resemblance to a 'pike', as in the pointed weapon. In Saskatchewan they are often commonly referred to as a 'jack' or 'jackfish'. You may also hear them called: 'slough shark', 'snake' 'slimer', and many other nicknames as well.

History of Stocking

Saskatchewan Fish Hatchery, located near Fort Qu'Apelle, occasionally stocks Northern Pike where populations have diminished due to winter kills or fishing pressure. But walleye and trout are more commonly stocked than pike.

According to the Stocking Reports, the Hatchery has not stocked Northern Pike in Saskatchewan lakes for at least the last 5 years.

Details

Scientific name:	Esox lucius
Avg. weight:	1 to 2.5 kg (2.2 to 5.5 lbs)
Conservation status:	Least Concern
Also known as:	jack, jackfish
General Limit:	Limit 5 (only one may exceed 75 cm)
CR1 Limit:	Limit 3 (Only one may exceed 75 cm)
CR2 Limit:	Limit 3 (None may exceed 75 cm)
CR3 Limit:	Limit 1 (Which cannot exceed 75 cm)
PA National Park limit:	Limit 3
SK Record:	47lb 5oz - 55.5" @ Mirond Lake in 2008
Distribution:	Found in 1280 waters in Saskatchewan

Distribution

See where Northern Pike can be found in Saskatchewan.

All lakes with Northern Pike

Fishing for Northern Pike in Saskatchewan

Where to fish for Northern Pike

Unlike some species here in the province you won't have to go far out of your way to find Northern Pike. Northern Pike are incredibly widespread across the province, you can find them just about anywhere in the province.

Northern Saskatchewan is word-famous for its Pike Fishing. Reindeer Lake, Lake Athabasca and Wollaston Lake are just a few of the lakes featuring big, hungry fish.

General Limits

The limit for Northern Pike is Limit 5 (only one may exceed 75 cm) in Saskatchewan provincial waters. Some provincial waters may have different limits for Northern Pike or be closed to fishing altogether. Always double check with the Sask Anglers Guide before heading out.

The limit for Northern Pike is Limit 3 when fishing within the Prince Albert National Park.