A species of fish that is a member of the Redfin Pickerel, the Chain Pickerel and the Muskie (Musky or Muskellunge) family of Pike. Found in fresh water lakes, streams and rivers, the Northern Pike is common in Canada and in waters from the northern to southern U.S. Northern Pike will often be referred to as Pickerel, as Northerns or simply as Pike.
Often considered to be a sporting fish because of the size and fight of the Northern Pike, this fish is also a good eating fish when fileted properly. The meat has a yellowish red color that is somewhat sweet to mild flavored when cooked. Small floating bones are present in the top part of the filet on the Northern Pike, so it is best to attempt to remove each bone when cutting up the filets to make it more enjoyable for eating. As an alternative, the meat from the Northern Pike is often ground and added to recipes. |