African pike

Introduction: The quiet, deep waters, such as channels and lagoons of large floodplains are the preferred habitat of the African pike (Hepsetus odoe). This rather fearsome looking fish is easily recognisable by its pointed head and crocodile-like jaws housing some very sharp canine teeth. A unique fish in its own right, it is not usually found with tigerfish due to differing habitat and hunting strategies. Those keen on angling in Namibia enjoy the fight with light tackle.

Distribution: Kunene River and Kavango River in north eastern Namibia

Diet: Adult African pike eat mostly fish, stalking and ambushing its prey up to 30-40% of their own size, with swift, sudden rushes. Juveniles prey on small invertebrates and fish.

Colouring: A rich brassy olive with dark brown blotches and cream underparts. The fins have black spots, the adipose fin (the smallest of the back fins) is orange with black spots and 3 brown bands are evident behind the eye.

Breeding: The African pike is a multiple spawner, breeding over the summer months. Eggs are incubated in a nest that has been formed in the shelter of floating foam, nestled in the dense marginal vegetation of their preferred habitats. Both parents guard and tend the nest until the eggs hatch, when the fry drop to the water surface, where they remain until the nest disintegrates.

Size: Females become larger than males reaching 450mm full length (similar to the nembwe) and about 2kg (smaller than nembwe).