Pike

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Pike, also known as northern pike or simply "pike," are highly sought-after gamefish found in various bodies of water across the Central/Mountain region of the United States. Anglers in this region have the opportunity to target pike in lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and larger ponds. While the following bodies of water are popular for pike fishing in this region, there are many other locations where pike can be found:
Colorado: Spinney Mountain Reservoir, Stagecoach Reservoir, Williams Fork Reservoir.
Idaho: Lake Coeur d'Alene, Priest Lake, Pend Oreille River.
Utah: Pineview Reservoir, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Jordanelle Reservoir.
Wyoming: Boysen Reservoir, Glendo Reservoir, Pathfinder Reservoir.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Pike are ambush predators that favor habitats with abundant cover and structure. They can be found near weed beds, submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and other forms of structure that provide hiding places. Look for pike in areas with moderate to deep water, such as points, weed edges, or along drop-offs. They often lurk near the cover, waiting to ambush their prey.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, pike become more active as the water temperatures rise. They move into shallower areas in search of spawning sites and food. Look for pike near emergent vegetation, submerged structure, or along the edges of weed beds. Use larger-sized lures such as spoons, jerkbaits, or swimbaits to entice strikes from aggressive pike.

SUMMER

In the summer, pike seek cover in cooler water and can be found near weed beds, submerged structure, or along drop-offs. Look for them in areas with a mix of shallow and deep water. Topwater lures, such as buzzbaits or surface frogs, can be effective during low-light conditions or in areas with thick vegetation. Otherwise, use larger-sized jerkbaits, spinnerbaits, or swimbaits to target pike.

FALL

As fall approaches, pike go through a period of increased feeding activity. They move to shallower areas and can be found near weed beds, points, or along the edges of drop-offs. Look for pike in areas with abundant baitfish. Use a variety of lures such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or swimbaits to imitate the movements of prey. Vary your retrieval speeds and experiment with different colors to trigger strikes.

WINTER

During the winter months, pike become less active but can still be caught. They tend to move to deeper areas with less vegetation and seek out areas with warmer water discharges. Focus your efforts near dam outflows, power plant discharges, or deep pools. Use slow and steady retrieves with larger-sized jerkbaits, spoons, or live bait such as large minnows to tempt pike in colder water temperatures.

Pike are aggressive feeders and will strike a variety of lures and baits. Effective bait options for pike fishing include spoons, jerkbaits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, swimbaits, and live bait such as large minnows or suckers. Experiment with different colors, sizes, and retrieval speeds to find the most enticing presentation. Pay attention to the water clarity and adjust your bait selection accordingly.