State probes report of northern pike in Lake Mary Ronan

In the coming weeks, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will follow up on the recent northern pike discovery in Lake Mary Ronan.

Biologists will conduct sampling in an effort to confirm pike presence and distribution, and determine if the illegal introduction has resulted in the establishment of a pike population in the lake, according to FWP Region One Fisheries Manager Mark Deleray. Sampling will include beach seining and gill nets.

“We will be trying to confirm whether or not any reproduction has occurred,” Deleray said.

 Two northern pike were caught in Lake Mary Ronan on June 26 by an angler from Missoula. These were the first pike to be reported from Lake Mary Ronan, and it is assumed that these fish originated from an illegal fish introduction.

Known as “Bucket Biology,” illegal fish introductions have caused problems in hundreds of waters across the state, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars to rectify. In most cases, the illegal introduction cannot be undone.

 Fish, Wildlife and Parks is asking anyone with information on who introduced pike into Lake Mary Ronan to call 1-800-TIP MONT. Angler groups from across Montana have come together to increase the reward to $4,250 for information leading to conviction for illegally introducing fish. Callers do not need to identify themselves. 

and may be eligible for a cash reward. Anglers are encouraged to keep any pike caught and report additional sightings of pike by calling 752-5501.