Northern pike are native to much of Alaska, but south of the Alaska Range, they’re an invasive species, and their continued spread raises new questions.
In this episode of The Fish Count, we sit down with ADF&G research biologist Parker Bradley to talk about northern pike in Southcentral Alaska. We dig into how pike were introduced to the region, how they spread through connected waters, and why their impacts on native fish, particularly juvenile salmon, can vary dramatically depending on habitat.
We also explore one of the most fascinating areas of current pike research: evidence that northern pike are moving through the brackish waters of Cook Inlet to reach new freshwater systems. Parker explains how researchers use otolith microchemistry, salinity studies and video weirs to better understand where these fish have been and what their movement could mean for Southcentral Alaska fisheries.
Along the way, we tackle some common misconceptions about northern pike, look at what researchers have learned from examining tens of thousands of pike stomachs, and discuss why preventing the spread of invasive species matters.
It’s a wide-ranging conversation about pike, salmon, invasive species and the research helping us better understand what’s happening beneath the surface.
The Fish Count Podcast is a production of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. This episode was produced by Ryan Ragan and Amanda Luper. Audio and Graphics by Amanda Luper. Copyright 2026.