Pike

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Pike, also known as northern pike or simply "pike," are predatory fish that inhabit various bodies of water across the North/Great Lakes region of the United States. Anglers are drawn to these waters to target pike for their aggressive strikes and thrilling fishing experiences. The following bodies of water are popular for pike fishing in this region:
Michigan: Great Lakes, including Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River, are renowned for their pike populations. Inland lakes such as Houghton Lake and Higgins Lake also offer excellent opportunities for pike fishing.
Minnesota: Known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," Minnesota provides ample habitat for pike. Popular destinations include Lake of the Woods, Rainy Lake, and Leech Lake.
North Dakota: Devils Lake, Lake Sakakawea, and the Missouri River in North Dakota are known for their trophy pike. These expansive waters offer vast areas for pike to roam and thrive.
Wisconsin: Wisconsin boasts numerous lakes and rivers where pike can be found. Green Bay, Lake Winnebago, and the Wolf River are popular spots for pike fishing.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Pike prefer freshwater habitats with ample cover and structure. They are often found in weedy areas, including emergent vegetation, submerged weeds, and lily pads. Look for pike near drop-offs, points, and areas with submerged structures such as fallen trees, stumps, or weed beds. Pike are ambush predators and often hide in cover, waiting to strike their prey with lightning-fast attacks.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, pike become more active as the water temperatures rise. Look for them in shallow bays, near weed beds, and along the shorelines. Use large spinnerbaits, topwater lures, or jerkbaits to entice pike. Their aggressive nature makes them susceptible to lures that mimic larger prey or create surface disturbances.

SUMMER

In the summer, pike seek cooler and shaded areas, often near dense weed beds, submerged structures, or drop-offs. They may be found in slightly deeper waters. Target pike with large spoons, swimbaits, or crankbaits. Retrieve your lures at varying speeds and depths to trigger strikes from these voracious predators.

FALL

As fall arrives, pike become more active again, preparing for the colder months ahead. Look for them near weed edges, points, or areas with submerged vegetation. Use jerkbaits, crankbaits, or large swimbaits to imitate injured baitfish. Pike are known to strike aggressively during this season, so be prepared for thrilling battles.

WINTER

During the winter months, pike can be found in deeper waters, particularly near drop-offs, submerged structures, or weed beds. Ice fishing is a popular method for targeting pike during this season. Use tip-ups with large live bait such as suckers or shiners, or large spoons to entice pike beneath the ice. Focus on areas with submerged vegetation or near structures.

Pike are opportunistic predators and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Effective bait options for pike fishing include large spoons, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, swimbaits, crankbaits, and live bait such as large minnows, suckers, or shiners. Experiment with different colors and presentations to determine what triggers pike's aggressive response.