The pike is a large fish, can exceed 1 m in length. The mouth is wide and flattened, with numerous teeth. The dorsal fin is in a very backward position, at the same height as the anal fin. They usually have greenish or brownish body colors.

Its natural range is central and northern Europe, much of Asia and North America. It has been introduced to Catalonia for more than half a century and can be found in the basins of Noguera Ribagorçana, Segre, Llobregat and Muga, especially in reservoirs, although it is scarce.

Its preferred habitat is slow-flowing rivers and stagnant waters, with abundant aquatic vegetation. In Catalonia it reproduces in early spring. It is most active in the first and last hours of the day. It is a large predator, which basically feeds on fish, but it can also catch crayfish, amphibians and waterfowl.

Due to its predatory nature, it can pose a threat to fish and other native species. However, being at present little abundant, the impact is probably insignificant.