Invasive Gamefish
Invasive Species | Fish and Invertebrates
Important Update (2026):
New Brunswick has introduced mandatory retention requirements for certain invasive fish species in designated Recreational Fishery Areas. Anglers should consult the current Government of New Brunswick regulations before fishing, as requirements may change over time. To report an invasive fish species or learn more about current reporting requirements, please refer to the Government of New Brunswick's Fish & Wildlife webpages or contact the appropriate agency listed below.
Invasive Gamefish
Chain Pickerel (Esox niger), Northern Pike (Esox lucius), Small and Largemouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu and salmoides), Muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) and Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus).
Originally introduced for sport fishing, invasive gamefish such as Chain Pickerel, Northern Pike, Small and Largemouth Bass, Muskellunge and Black Crappie outcompete native fish species for food and habitat which impacts overall ecosystem composition and function.
Description:
Invasive game fish are non-native fish species introduced to waterbodies for recreation purposes such as angling and fly-fishing. Examples of invasive gamefish include Chain Pickerel, Northern Pike (aka Pike, Pickerel), Small and Large Mouth Bass, Muskellunge and Black Crappie. When introduced, these non-native species can quickly establish in local lakes and rivers.
Problem:
While each species will have specific impacts on aquatic ecosystems, invasive gamefish outcompete native fish species for food and habitat resources, which impacts food webs and future populations of native fish by limiting prey available to smaller fish and other species.
These species typically grow quickly and can tolerate decreased water quality, allowing them to succeed in large lakes and rivers where angling may occur. While beneficial for some anglers, these species impact overall ecosystem composition and function.
Species identification:
For more information on identifying and reporting invasive gamefish, please see the associated federal and provincial information;
Chain Pickerel:
Northern Pike:
Similar species:
Muskellunge (Esox masquinongy): The Northern Pike can be distinguished from the Muskellunge by its pale spots and the rounded extremities of its caudal fin.
Government of New Brunswick - Chain Pickerel vs Muskellunge Identification Sheet
Smallmouth Bass (Report to Department of Fisheries and Oceans):
Largemouth Bass (Report to Department of Fisheries and Oceans):
Muskellunge:
Black Crappie:
How it’s spread:
These invasive gamefish can be intentionally introduced to waterbodies for their fishing potential, or have been unintentionally introduced into the environment. When angling in New Brunswick, it is important to remember, Don’t Let it Loose! Make sure to never move invasive gamefish to new waterbodies and report sightings of aquatic invasive species such as Small/largemouth Bass to Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Looking for More Information?
The species listed above represent some of the invasive gamefish found in New Brunswick. For information on additional invasive fish species, including muskellunge, as well as current regulations and reporting requirements, please visit the Government of New Brunswick Fish & Wildlife website.
Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development
E-mail: FishNB-PecheN-B@gnb.ca
Phone: (506) 453-3826
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