Embark on a thrilling fishing adventure as we delve into the world of big northern pike and the arsenal of lures that will help you conquer these apex predators. From stealthy finesse to aggressive retrieves, the right lure can make all the difference when targeting these elusive giants.
Pike have an insatiable appetite and an aggressive nature, making them formidable opponents for anglers. Spinners and spoons, with their flashy blades and vibrant colors, are classic choices that trigger predatory instincts. Cast these lures into promising pike haunts, such as weed beds, drop-offs, and shallow bays, and prepare for explosive strikes. Larger spinners and spoons, ranging from 1/2 to 1 ounce, are ideal for covering water and attracting attention.
Soft plastics, such as swimbaits and jerkbaits, offer a more lifelike presentation. Swimbaits, with their undulating tails and realistic profiles, mimic the movement of small fish, while jerkbaits can be twitched and paused to entice pike into striking. For optimal effectiveness, choose soft plastics in natural colors that resemble the prevalent forage species in the area. Vary your retrieve speeds and techniques to find what resonates with the pike on that particular day.
The Deceptive Magic of Spoons
In the vast aquatic realm where elusive northern pike lurk, there’s one lure that stands out for its uncanny ability to deceive and entice these formidable predators: the spoon. Embodying both flash and vibration, spoons have proven themselves to be a formidable weapon in the hands of anglers determined to conquer the depths and land trophy pike.
The Illusion of Baitfish
The hypnotic allure of spoons lies in their ability to mimic the shape, movements, and shimmering scales of baitfish. When retrieved, the spoon’s concave surface catches the light, creating shimmering reflections that resemble the fluttering fins of a wounded fish. The rhythmic vibration produced by the spoon’s movement further enhances the illusion, triggering the pike’s predatory instincts and compelling them to strike.
Beyond their visual appeal, spoons offer anglers a wide range of sizes, colors, and weights, allowing them to tailor their presentations to specific water conditions and target different depths. Whether casting into shallow bays or trolling over deep flats, there’s a spoon that can effectively simulate the forage that pike are actively hunting.
| Factor | Influence on Pike Behavior |
|---|---|
| Size | Determines the size of the “baitfish” that the spoon imitates, influencing the size of pike that will be attracted |
| Color | Mimics the coloration of prevalent baitfish species, increasing the lure’s effectiveness |
| Weight | Controls the depth at which the spoon can be retrieved, allowing anglers to target pike at different levels of the water column |
The Flashing Enticement of Spinners
Spinners are a classic choice for pike anglers, and for good reason. Their rotating blades create a flashy, shimmering effect that attracts fish from a distance. They are also relatively easy to use, making them a good option for both beginners and experienced anglers.
There are many different types of spinners on the market, but some of the most popular include:
- Inline spinners: These spinners have a single blade that spins on a wire shaft. They are typically used for casting and trolling.
- Safety pin spinners: These spinners have two blades that spin on a safety pin-style wire. They are typically used for jigging and casting.
- Double spinners: These spinners have two blades that spin on a single shaft. They are typically used for casting and trolling.
When choosing a spinner for pike, it is important to consider the size, weight, and color of the lure. The size of the lure should match the size of the pike you are targeting. The weight of the lure should be heavy enough to cast well, but not so heavy that it sinks too quickly. The color of the lure should be bright and flashy, such as silver, gold, or copper.
Spinners can be used in a variety of ways to catch pike. They can be cast and retrieved, trolled behind a boat, or jigged vertically.
Popular Spinner Brands for Pike
| Brand | Models |
|---|---|
| Mepps | Aglia, Comet, Black Fury |
| Blue Fox | Vibrax, Vibrax S |
| Panther Martin | Indiana, Sioux |
| Johnson Silver Minnow | Silver Minnow |
| Williams Wabler | Wabler |
The Versatile Allure of Topwater Baits
Topwater baits are a surefire way to entice monstrous northern pike. Their enticing surface commotion and lifelike appearance are irresistible to these apex predators. Here are some of the most effective topwater lures for big pike:
Buzzbaits
Buzzbaits create an irresistible buzz and vibration that draws pike from afar. Their weedless design allows for effective fishing in heavy vegetation, where pike often lurk. Choose buzzbaits with large blades for maximum disturbance and a wider profile.
Poppers
Poppers produce a loud “popping” sound that imitates prey struggling on the surface. Their concave face creates a tantalizing splash that attracts pike. Opt for poppers with large, bulbous heads and a weighted body that casts well.
Walking Baits
Walking baits execute a seductive side-to-side “walking” action that mimics the movement of a wounded baitfish. They are an excellent choice for fishing in calm waters or along weed edges. Select walking baits with a wide, flat body that allows them to glide easily across the surface.
| Lure Type | Key Features | Ideal Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Buzzbaits | – Loud buzz and vibration – Weedless design – Large blades |
– Heavy vegetation – Calm or slow-moving waters |
| Poppers | – “Popping” sound – Concave face – Weighted body |
– Calm or slightly choppy waters – Near vegetation or cover |
| Walking Baits | – Side-to-side “walking” action – Wide, flat body – Minimal weed resistance |
– Calm or slightly choppy waters – Along weed edges or near structure |
The Subterranean Stealth of Jerkbaits
Concealed beneath the icy depths, jerkbaits offer an unparalleled advantage for targeting colossal northern pike. These elongated, minnow-shaped lures feature an erratic, darting action that mimics the wounded prey that pike eagerly pursue. Their slow, subsurface movements allow them to penetrate deeper water columns, making them ideal for stealthily approaching wary predators.
When selecting a jerk bait, consider key factors such as size, color, and action. Pike are known for their voracious appetites and aggressive nature, so opt for larger jerkbaits ranging from 4-6 inches in length. Natural colors like silver, blue, and green are effective in clear waters, while brighter colors like orange and yellow excel in stained water. As for action, choose jerkbaits with a wide, erratic action that creates plenty of flash and vibration to attract attention.
Retrieving jerkbaits for pike requires a combination of slow, deliberate movements and occasional pauses. Begin by casting the lure near prospective pike holding areas. Allow it to sink to the desired depth, typically 2-5 feet. Then, gently jerk the rod tip to create the erratic, darting motion. Hold the pause for a few seconds before repeating the jerk. Pay attention to the line; when you feel a heavy jolt or resistance, set the hook swiftly.
| Jerkbait Characteristics | Optimal Parameters |
|---|---|
| Length | 4-6 inches |
| Colors | Silver, blue, green (clear water); Orange, yellow (stained water) |
| Action | Wide, erratic |
| Retrieving Strategy | Slow, deliberate jerks with pauses |
The Vibrating Temptation of Cranks
Cranks are a classic choice for pike fishing, and for good reason. Their erratic, vibrating action is irresistible to these predators. When choosing a crankbait for pike, look for one that is large and brightly colored. A crankbait with a loud rattle can also be effective in attracting attention.
When fishing with a crankbait, cast it out and retrieve it with a steady, even motion. Vary the speed of your retrieve to find what the pike are most interested in. Some pike prefer a slow, steady retrieve, while others prefer a faster, more erratic retrieve.
Here are a few of the best crankbaits for big northern pike:
| Crankbait | Length | Weight | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rapala Husky Jerk | 6 inches | 1 ounce | Floating |
| Storm Thunderstick | 5 inches | 3/4 ounce | Sinking |
| Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow | 4 inches | 1/2 ounce | Suspending |
The Realistic Appeal of Swimbaits
Swimbaits are soft plastic lures that are designed to imitate the movement and appearance of small fish. They are typically rigged on jig heads or weighted hooks, and they can be fished in a variety of ways, including casting, trolling, and jigging. Swimbaits are effective for catching a variety of fish, including northern pike, muskie, and bass.
One of the things that makes swimbaits so effective for catching big northern pike is their realistic appearance. Swimbaits are often made with highly detailed bodies and fins, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns to match the baitfish that pike are feeding on. The realistic appearance of swimbaits helps to trigger the pike’s predatory instinct, and it can also help to keep them hooked once they strike.
In addition to their realistic appearance, swimbaits also have a unique swimming action that can be very enticing to pike. Swimbaits are designed to swim with a natural, side-to-side motion, and they can be retrieved at a variety of speeds to match the speed of the baitfish that pike are feeding on. The swimming action of swimbaits helps to create a disturbance in the water, which can attract pike from a distance.
Swimbaits are available in a variety of sizes, from small lures that are just a few inches long to large lures that are more than a foot long. The size of the swimbait that you choose will depend on the size of the pike that you are targeting. For big northern pike, you will want to use a swimbait that is at least 6 inches long.
| Swimbait | Size | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Lunker City Fin-S Fish | 6 inches | Silver/Black |
| Storm Arashi Vib | 7 inches | Bluegill |
| Berkley PowerBait MaxScent The General | 8 inches | Firetiger |
Swimbaits are a versatile lure that can be used to catch a variety of fish, including northern pike. Their realistic appearance and swimming action make them a deadly choice for big pike, and they can be fished in a variety of ways to match the conditions.
The Underrated Power of Live Bait
Pike are apex predators with an insatiable appetite for live prey. While artificial lures can be effective, there’s nothing quite like the allure of a live baitfish. These natural offerings trigger a primal hunting instinct in pike, making them an irresistible target.
When choosing live bait for pike, size and species are crucial. Pike prefer larger baitfish, typically ranging from 6 to 12 inches in length. Some prime choices include suckers, chubs, and shiners. These baitfish are abundant in most pike habitats and provide a generous nutritional payoff.
Presenting live bait effectively is key. Use a floating jighead to keep the baitfish suspended a few inches off the bottom. This mimics the behavior of a struggling prey item and entices pike to strike. Alternatively, you can employ a slip bobber to keep the bait suspended at a specific depth.
When fishing with live bait, be patient. Pike are often ambush predators, lurking in wait for an unsuspecting victim. Allow the baitfish to swim naturally, providing ample time for a pike to spot and strike.
To enhance your chances of success, consider these additional tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use fresh, active baitfish | Fresh baitfish emit more scent and movement, attracting pike from a distance. |
| Hook the baitfish through the lips | This ensures the baitfish remains alive and mobile for an extended period. |
| Fish in areas with cover | Pike often ambush prey near weeds, fallen logs, and other structures. |
| Be prepared for explosive strikes | Pike are known for their aggressive attacks, so be ready to set the hook quickly. |
| Use a stout rod and heavy line | Pike are powerful fish that require strong tackle. |
The Strategic Advantage of Hair Jigs
Hair jigs are an excellent choice for targeting big northern pike due to their unique characteristics. Here’s why:
1. **Natural Appearance:** Hair jigs simulate the appearance of live bait, making them highly attractive to pike.
2. **Lifelike Movement:** The hair material creates a lifelike swimming motion that mimics a struggling baitfish.
3. **Weedless Design:** Hair jigs are often weedless, allowing anglers to fish through dense vegetation where pike typically reside.
4. **Versatility:** Hair jigs can be fished effectively in various water depths and retrieve speeds.
5. **Durable:** Hair jigs are made from high-quality materials that can withstand the powerful strikes of northern pike.
6. **Sharp Hooks:** Most hair jigs come with sharp hooks that ensure a secure hookset.
7. **Scent:** Hair jigs can be scented with attractants to enhance their effectiveness.
8. **Tailoring Options:** Hair jigs offer a wide range of customization options, allowing anglers to adjust the size, color, and weight of the lure to match specific fishing conditions and target sizes of northern pike.
| Hair Jig Size | Target Pike Size |
|---|---|
| 1/4 oz | Pike up to 5 lbs |
| 1/2 oz | Pike up to 10 lbs |
| 1 oz | Pike up to 15 lbs |
9. **Cost-Effective:** Hair jigs are relatively affordable, making them an accessible option for anglers of all skill levels.
The Secret Weapon of Tandem Rigs
Tandem rigs are a deadly weapon in the arsenal of any pike angler. By combining two lures on a single leader, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Here’s a closer look at this effective technique:
1. Double the Attraction:
With two lures in play, you’re doubling the amount of flash, vibration, and movement in the water. This increased stimulation is irresistible to big pike, who are always on the lookout for an easy meal.
2. Create a Larger Profile:
The combined profile of two lures is significantly larger than that of a single lure. This increased visibility makes it easier for pike to spot your bait from a distance, even in murky or low-light conditions.
3. Imitate a School of Baitfish:
By using two lures of different sizes or colors, you can mimic a school of baitfish. This is especially effective when targeting pike that are actively feeding on schools of smaller fish.
4. Adjust Depth and Speed:
By spacing the lures at different depths or using different weights, you can target pike at various levels in the water column. This allows you to adapt to the specific conditions and the depth at which the pike are holding.
5. Increase Hook-Up Ratio:
With two lures in the water, you have a better chance of getting a hook into a pike’s mouth. If one lure misses, the other may still connect, increasing your landing percentage.
6. Experiment with Different Combinations:
The beauty of tandem rigs is their versatility. Experiment with different lures, colors, and sizes to find the combination that works best for your target waters and the specific conditions you’re fishing.
7. Use a Strong Leader:
Pike are known for their sharp teeth, so it’s essential to use a strong wire or fluorocarbon leader to prevent them from biting through your line.
8. Keep it Natural:
While tandem rigs can be effective, it’s important to keep them as natural as possible. Avoid using too many lures or noisy components that can spook the fish.
9. Rigging Options:
There are several methods for rigging tandem rigs. Here’s a common technique:
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Inline Rig | – Attach a heavy swivel to your main line. – Tie a short fluorocarbon leader (e.g., 12-18 inches) to the swivel. – Tie a smaller lure to the end of the leader. – Tie another fluorocarbon leader (e.g., 2-4 inches) to the swivel and tie a larger lure to the end of this leader. |
Best Lures for Big Northern Pike
Northern pike are known for their aggressive nature and large size, making them a popular target for anglers. To catch these elusive predators, it’s important to use the right lures that will attract their attention and trigger their feeding instinct. Here are some of the top lures for big northern pike:
- Spinnerbaits: Spinnerbaits are a classic choice for pike fishing, as they create a lot of flash and vibration that attract the fish’s attention. Use spinnerbaits with large blades and heavy weights to cast deep and cover a lot of water.
- Jerkbaits: Jerkbaits are another effective lure for pike. They are designed to mimic the erratic movements of a wounded baitfish, which triggers the pike’s predatory instincts. Choose jerkbaits with bright colors and large hooks that can withstand the pike’s sharp teeth.
- Spoons: Spoons are a versatile lure that can be used for trolling, casting, or jigging. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can match your lure to the conditions and the size of the pike you’re targeting.
- Bucktail Jigs: Bucktail jigs are a good choice for fishing in shallow water or around weed beds. They are made with a lead head and a bucktail skirt that creates a lot of movement and flash. Use bucktail jigs with a trailer hook to increase your chances of hooking a fish.
- Topwater lures: Topwater lures are a great way to target pike that are near the surface. These lures create a lot of commotion and attract the pike’s attention from a distance. Use topwater lures with large hooks and a strong leader to prevent the pike from cutting the line.
