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In Arizona's White Mountains we've got Northern Pike too!
Angler's both young and old enjoy year around
fishing in the White Mountains. Arctic
Grayling are just one of the many species of fish available to the avid
fisherma../attract/fishing.htmn! In Arizona, anglers may take fish by one line with hooks or
artificial lures. Purchase of a "two pole"stamp on Arizona's
fishing license allows anglers to fish simultaneously with two poles.
Fishing in Arizona is governed by Arizona State Law. A valid
fishing license is required. Licenses may be obtained from the Arizona Game
& Fish Department or any authorized vendor.
 Northern Pike
(Esox lucius)
Description: Non-native to Arizona, Northern Pike were introduced
to Arizona in the 1965. The back and sides of the Northern Pike are a dusky
olive-green with rows of light oval spots. Dorsal, anal and tail fin have round
to oblong darkened spots. Dorsal fin located far back on an elongated body.
Large canine-like teeth. Cheeks completely scaled, only upper half of the gill
cover is scaled. Length: 12 to 47 inches. Weight: 8 ounces to 24 pounds.
Location & Habitat: Northern Pike are found in Lake Mary,
Mormon Lake, Stoneman Lake, and Long Lake, south of Flagstaff; McNary Mill
Ponds in the White Mountains. They prefer shallow water and areas congested
with aquatic weeds. Spawn just after ice thaws; Adhesive eggs simply scattered
over the bottom or onto vegetation.
Food habits: Fish make up the bulk of the Northern Pike diet but
they will also take frogs, crayfish, waterdogs, ducks, birds, and mice.
Angling: Effective lures and bait for pike are "LARGE" spoons,
spinners, plugs or waterdogs. Fishing with minnows is unlawful in Lake Mary,
Mormon Lake, Stoneman Lake and Long Lake. Northern pike have sharp teeth, so
many anglers use a wire leader to prevent the line from being cut.
Table Quality: The meat is white, flaky and has a good flavor, but
each fillet has a row of Y-bones. By cutting around the bones they can be
removed.
 Information courtesy Arizona Game & Fish Department, Region
1-Pinetop,AZ
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