Pike and perch are apex freshwater predators widely targeted by anglers. Their welfare in catch-and-release fishing and as subjects of predator control raises important questions.
Pike are often caught on lures and artificial baits that can cause internal hook injuries when swallowed. As apex predators, they experience hook damage in areas with high angling pressure repeatedly over their long lives. Predator control culls — sometimes involving netting and killing pike to favour smaller species — raise welfare questions about the legitimacy of killing apex predators for recreational fishing management. Perch suffering from disease outbreaks experience prolonged welfare harms. Both species respond to capture with strong stress hormonal responses consistent with significant suffering.