Pike are a popular game fish that inhabit the lakes, reservoirs and slow-moving rivers of northern North America. Predatory in nature, these large fish are ambush hunters, lying in wait for prey to swim by. The long, muscular body and sharp teeth that pike possess requires heavier tackle, rod and reel and bait than that used for many other species of game fish. Anglers appreciate the hard fight of these powerful fish.
Habitat
Pike are still-water game fish, inhabiting large lakes and reservoirs. They often hold around areas with structure, including sunken trees, rocky areas and boulders, rock ledges and grassy regions. Smaller pike usually stay in shallower waters around the perimeter of the lake, while larger fish tend to remain in deeper water. Pike also frequent the inlets of tributary rivers and streams, looking for prey to wash into the lake or reservoir.
Equipment
Select a medium to medium-heavy fishing rod and reel. While spinning gear will work for pike, a bait-casting rod and reel will provide more power to handle bigger fish. Pike see well and can be line shy. A fluorocarbon leader, which is virtually invisible in water, can help to present your bait without spooking the fish. A braided, 10 to 20 lb. test weight fishing line stretches very little, making it more sensitive to any light strikes from pike. Also, use a wire leader. Pike have sharp teeth and strong jaws that can cut through other fishing lines.
Baits
Baits with a lot of action are good for pike fishing because they find their prey predominantly through sight and vibration. Large bucktail jigs, spoons, crank baits and spinners are all good choices. For natural baits, live bait fish work well. These can include, sucker fish, large minnows, shiners and chubs. When fishing for bigger baits, large baits are the best choice because these fish will often take prey fish that are over one-quarter of the length of the pike itself.
Live Bait Rig
A typical live bait pike rig starts with a 12 inch wire leader with a treble hook clipped on the swivel on one end. Another wire leader then fastens to the swivel with the treble hook on the first leader. A treble hook then fastens to the other end of the second leader. The first treble hook passes through the tail of a bait fish, then the second treble hook is hooked through the lip of the bait fish. When cast, the bait fish will swim more naturally and be more attractive to pike in the area.
Pike Behavior
Pike are ambush hunters that are notorious for picking up a prey fish and swimming off, then repositioning the fish to eat it. When you first detect a strike, resist the urge to set the hook. Allow the pike to move off, letting your line run freely from the reel. When the line slows, it is likely the pike is ready to feed. Then, wind your reel to take up your line and set the hook.
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