Rhode Island Pike poll

[Pike Guy Matt]

I agree that proper C+R is very important and should always be practiced with large game fish like pike. Keeping the fish out of water for as short amount of time is extremely important, especially with these real cold temps we have now, as the fishes eyes can freeze in a matter of a minute. The trout program will never be stopped completely, but it would be nice to cut it back a little and use some of the extra funds to go towards a pike program.

[BASSRI]

A pike program would be awesome.  I'd definately purchase a stamp and would personally be in favor of catch and release.  If promoted correctly, it could certainly bring in some out of state anglers which could help local businesses. 

[moosehunter]

theres plenty breedin up in maine. come up and get some.

[Cold Ice Steve]

Thanks so much for the input,
Your the opinions vary, but it seems that there is majority interest with the idea of a Pike Stamp... I sent an e-mail to the DEM but as usual they haven't responded as of this AM.
I do agree that the Pike might be reproducing in some waters, but at a rate that may not sustain the fishery. As far as the individual that is concerned by competing with trout stocking, that's not the intent here. I live in Burrillville the home of 7 stocked trout waters, including the Round Tops and Wallum Lake, those are important to the recreational fisherman. In my opinion, Pike fisherman are a different breed by the fact of how we put up with cold, wind and other wise weather that calls off school! LOL  The original Pike stocking program didn't compete with the trout program one bit and it's not the goal to do it now. The Pike Stamp idea is a step to reestablish the stocking program.

[NatetheGreat]

I catch small ones all the time under 12"

[Pike Guy Matt]

I catch small ones all the time under 12"

If they are that small, you are probably confusing them with pickeral

[NatetheGreat]

nope, I know the difference

[JBO112394]

nope, I know the difference

Post some pics

[NatetheGreat]

I don't see the tell tale links on the side which tells me they are pike? I'll look closer for the "tear drop" and post pics if and when I get them..

[Bassman]

I don't see the tell tale links on the side which tells me they are pike? I'll look closer for the "tear drop" and post pics if and when I get them..

This is getting interesting.

[NatetheGreat]

what's the difference between an alligator and a hippopotamus? Wrong! They are both marsupials.

[ImmovingtoMaine,OUCH]

How would everyone say the Pike fishing is now versus 2014? Based on DEM’s article in 2014 they have been re-stocking, 

Also based this original poll how many 5+lb or less Pike have you caught in RI since 2014?

Me-0 moved here in 2015 and only have ice fished Chapman’s (10-12 times with golden shiners, live and dead) since I live near it and haven’t caught a pike yet

[halfhooked]

Bassman good to see you on  I for one have missed you