Northern Pike Research

Type: Nontidal
Region: Western
Location: Deep Creek Lake

DNR Fisheries Service has initiated a tagging study on northern pike in Deep Creek Lake in order to obtain some basic life history information as well as catch and harvest rates . Adult pike of at least 26" in length are currently being collected and tagged with a yellow FLOY tag that will be located along the dorsal fin. Each tag will have a four-digit number as well as a phone number (see attached sign). If you catch a tagged fish, please note the tag number, the date it was caught, the general location on the lake where it was caught, whether it was kept or released, and its length to the nearest �", and report that information via the phone number on the tag (301-689-7168). Your cooperation in this effort will help us to begin to collect the needed information to effectively manage this unique fishery and will also make you eligible for a reward!

Due to the low density of large pike in the lake and the limited number of tags deployed, we encourage you to take a picture of your catch and then release it so that we may continue to collect needed information from our tagged fish.

During the last stretch of cool weather, the surface temps on the lake dropped into the upper 60's during the early morning hours, so a friend and I decided to take advantage of the cooler water to try to catch and tag a large pike or two. Fortunately, we were able to hook up with a beautiful female that was 39.5" long and was fitted with the first tag of the project! She handled the tagging well and is out there waiting to be caught!

Good luck and tight lines!!!