Predator responses in recreational fishing: Assessing selective pressure of bait types on behavioral diversity in northern pike (Esox lucius)

Abstract

This study investigated the predatory behavior of northern pike in response to trolling with natural and artificial baits using underwater cameras. Predator types of 32 captured pike were identified based on their coping style under altered environmental conditions by measuring latency to forage in individual novel net enclosures. Fast-attacking pike during angling were more likely to forage in the enclosures than slow-attacking conspecifics. Bait type influenced attack latency, with soft plastic baits being attacked faster than natural baits. Pike biting the artificial bait exhibited a faster defensive response compared to the natural bait; however, the likelihood of capture was not affected. The results suggest that wild pike exhibit variability in coping styles, i.e. different responses to environmental changes, which are related to their vulnerability to angling. In consequence, bait selectivity, due to more proactive predators attacking soft plastic baits less hesitantly than their reactive counterparts, may influence pike populations even within the same fishing technique. Recreational fishery management should consider the behavioral diversity within pike populations to maintain genetic integrity and contribute to both angler satisfaction and ecosystem function.