It's approaching that time of year when pike begin to spawn in Alberta.
Northern pike are the only member of the pike family that is found in Alberta, and are often called Jackfish, and they tend to spawn in flooded areas of vegetation in the early spring, generally in April or May, and often when lakes still have ice on them.
Because their spawning season is approaching, Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement are asking people to help protect pike by following safe catch and release fishing, because pike are especially vulnerable to hooking mortality during spawning season.
Fish and Wildlife suggest keeping the pike in the water while removing the hook in order to help reduce the amount of time the fish will be out of the water, as air exposure plays a significant role in release mortality.
On top of that, it's suggested to use the proper set of pliers or de-hooking tool to safely remove the hook, and when removing the hook, avoid touching the fish's gills and eyes.
If you are holding the fish, make sure to hold the fish horizontally and support the body and tail, and before letting go of the fish in the water, gently move the fish back and forth to get water flowing over the gills, which will help to revive the fish.
While releasing the fish won't guarantee its survival, carefully handling the fish can reduce the amount of stress the fish experiences, which will give it an increased chance to live and reproduce.
Even though there are currently no rules preventing the use of barbed hooks, those who wish to do catch and release fishing should consider using a barbless hook, which will minimize stress and reduce the chances of the fish dying after it has been released.
Northern Pike can be found in the Bow River, the Little Bow, and many other places throughout Southern Alberta.
To learn more about Northern Pike in Alberta, click here.