Hi
I'm new to the Uk lingo so bear with me.
Coarse fish, Pikers, swims, its really all very confusing to a Canadian.
Over here the Pike are in the swims by the millions, and our main reason for fishing for them here is to eat them.
Most of the swims have cold water depths year round and the Pike are excellent eating fish. Very similar in testure and taste to our Walleye here, which are famed as world class table fare.
When looking for giants here instead of something for dinner, we look to different locations. Truly giant Pike in the 30LB class get that way by being very efficient predators. Once they reach about 15LB or so they begin to prey on larger food sources. Once you key in on the food sources you will find the big fish.
We have a spring spawning run of Redhorse Suckers, 3 to 6 LB fish, that giant Pike can't resist. I have caught 20LB + Pike with 3 suckers in thier gut.
We use a method of "Selective Harvest" for Pike fishing here, keep small ones for food and release the big ones to sustain the fisheries.
To ensure safe release, proper equipment is key. Bolt cutters, and a large "pen style" net or cradle.
If you get in the practise of cutting hooks with mini bolt cutters, they are very easy to release unharmed.
Good Luck you Pikers
Mike
www.reelpro.ca