True they do get big but not as exagerrated as posted. Mines 18" and a year and half in a 135g. Quite happy, true it will outgrow me but so what...
It's already outgrown your tank.
its a fun to feed fish, active and aggressive and if fed can cohabitate with o ther smaller fish.
With varying results. Not every fish will get eaten but it's not at all uncommon.
I feed mine smelt and anchovies that cost 3.00 a 2lb bag that lasts a couple of weeks at least and is worth the intertainment.
Depending on the species, smelt are likely an unhealthy staple and anchovies most certainly are.
Never seen a five footer as some would lie about to deter people. The world record is 5 foot.
It's the potential size, certainly unlikely in a tank or pond but 4' is likely if properly cared for.
In a large tank or pond maybe 3 foot but not for at least 2 years unless you power fed it and I'm sure sex would have a factor as well.
Since one can't tell males from females, sex being a factor really doesn't matter. One should be prepared for the potential size.
They get big quick then slow down like many other fish..
They slow down in lengthwise growth at around 24" and start getting bulkier. When the fish reaches 24" it will be approximately 2.5x the mass of your fish at 18" and will be approximately 11x its current mass if it ever reaches 36"
So if you want a cool fish that grows fast and gets big then go get one. Just know that the fish will be happier in a larger aquarium. After all these ones we get are breed and not wild so they do not know the diffrence, if they get fed they will be happy and its your choice to do as you will.
Being captive bred or wild caught makes no difference in the fish's "happiness" in a small tank Big fish need big footprint tanks or ponds. True, It's your choice to care for your fish poorly if you like but recommending it to others is irresponsible.
