Chapter VIII -The Compleat Angler

In Chapter VIII of “The Compleat Angler,” Piscator educates Venator about the Pike, portraying it as the tyrant of fresh waters, much like how the Salmon is considered the king. Piscator shares curious beliefs and observations about Pikes, including their breeding habits and their long lifespan, highlighted by an anecdote of a Pike that lived over 200 years, as noted by the ring found around its neck. The chapter emphasizes the aggressive nature of Pikes, their dietary habits that include cannibalism, and intriguing tales of Pikes attacking mules and humans. Piscator remarks on the solitary and bold demeanor of Pikes, differentiating them from schooling fish like Roach and Dace.

The text also touches on medicinal uses of Pike parts, documenting their beneficial properties against various ailments, albeit with a cautionary note on the venomous nature of their bite. The reproductive cycle of Pikes is detailed, underscoring their unique spawning behavior and preference for different habitats, with a bizarre account from Dubravius about a frog vanquishing a Pike, showcasing the complex interactions within aquatic ecosystems.

To catch a Pike, Piscator gives detailed instructions on baiting hooks with live fish or frogs, emphasizing the importance of causing minimal harm to the baits to ensure their longevity and appeal to Pikes. Specific techniques for ledger and walking baits are outlined, alongside the suggestion of using dead baits anointed with special concoctions to entice Pikes. The chapter concludes with an elaborate recipe for preparing and cooking a Pike, underscoring the importance of incorporating various herbs and seasonings to enhance the fish’s flavor, suggesting a seamless blend of angling skill with culinary artistry, staying true to the theme of piscatorial reverence and the anglers’ deep connection with the aquatic world.