General Information

The pike-perch belongs to the Percidae family. Its name of Lucioperca is due to its similarities with both the pike (lucius) and its cousin the perch (perca).

A lake and river fish, it is usually between 40 and 60 cm (1 1/2 to 2') in length and between 2 and 3 kg (4.5 to 6.5 lb.) in weight, though some can weigh 10-15 kg (22-33 lb.) It is recognizable by its long body, which is slightly flared behind the head. The pike-perch is covered with small rough scales. Its elongated head has two glassy eyes and ends in a pointed snout. Its mouth is armed with toothed jaws, each with a pair of long "canines."

The back of the pike-perch is grayish-green, and is more subdued in males during mating season. The lighter sides have 8-12 black stripes, though they are less well-defined than those of the perch. The belly is yellowish-white. The dorsal and caudal fins are marked with little black spots.

In the kitchen

The eyes should be transparent and the color bright and shiny, with firm flesh. The flesh is very easy to digest.