Pike

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Pike, known for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights, can be found in a variety of bodies of water across the central region of the United States. These apex predators thrive in diverse aquatic environments and exhibit a remarkable adaptability to different types of waters. From expansive lakes to winding rivers, pike can be found in the following bodies of water:
Illinois: Fox Chain O'Lakes, Shabbona Lake, Rend Lake, Lake Shelbyville, Kinkaid Lake.
Indiana: Patoka Lake, Lake Wawasee, Lake Maxinkuckee, Lake Monroe, Lake Michigan.
Iowa: Mississippi River, Des Moines River, Spirit Lake, Clear Lake, Lake Rathbun.
Kansas: Milford Reservoir, Pomona Lake, Perry Reservoir, Cheney Reservoir, Glen Elder Reservoir.
Kentucky: Kentucky Lake, Lake Cumberland, Dale Hollow Lake, Cave Run Lake, Green River Lake.
Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, Truman Reservoir, Bull Shoals Lake, Mark Twain Lake.
Nebraska: Lake McConaughy, Sherman Reservoir, Merritt Reservoir, Calamus Reservoir, Johnson Lake.
Ohio: Lake Erie, Mosquito Lake, Pymatuning Lake, Alum Creek Lake, Portage Lakes.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Understanding the structure and habitat preferences of pike can greatly enhance your fishing success. Pike are ambush predators that thrive in diverse environments. Consider the following features when targeting pike:
Weed Beds: Pike are often found lurking within dense weed beds, particularly in the early season. These areas provide cover and serve as hunting grounds for pike. Focus on the edges and openings within weed beds, as well as areas with submerged vegetation.
Rocky Structures: Pike frequently inhabit rocky areas, such as points, rocky shorelines, and underwater rock formations. These structures provide hiding spots and ambush points for pike. Pay attention to areas with boulders, submerged rocks, and rocky drop-offs.
Submerged Vegetation: Pike are attracted to areas with submerged vegetation, such as water lilies, cabbage beds, and coontail. These locations provide cover for both pike and their prey. Target the edges and pockets within the vegetation.
Shallow Bays and Flats: Shallow bays and flats are productive areas for pike, especially during spring and fall. These areas warm up quickly, attracting baitfish and triggering pike feeding activity. Look for areas with sand or gravel bottoms adjacent to deeper water.
River Currents: Pike can be found in rivers with moderate to slow currents. They seek areas with eddies, backwaters, and deeper holes along the river channel. Target the slack water areas near bends, structures, and areas with submerged trees or fallen logs.

PATTERNS

SPRING

As the water warms up in the spring, northern pike will begin to move into shallower waters to spawn. During this time, they can be found in weed beds, near shorelines, and in other shallow areas. This is a prime time for northern pike fishing, as the fish are actively feeding in preparation for spawning.

SUMMER

After spawning, northern pike will move into deeper waters to avoid the heat of the summer. They can be found in deeper weed beds, around underwater structure, and in other areas that provide cover and cooler water temperatures. The summer is not a prime time for northern pike fishing, as the fish are less active and harder to locate.

FALL

As the water cools down in the fall, northern pike will begin to move into shallower waters again. They can be found in weed beds, near shorelines, and in other shallow areas. This is a prime time for northern pike fishing, as the fish are actively feeding in preparation for winter.

WINTER

In the winter, northern pike will be less active and can be found in deeper waters, around underwater structure, and in other areas that provide cover and warmer water temperatures. Fishing for northern pike in the winter can be challenging due to the colder water temperatures, but it can still be productive if the right techniques are used.

Pike are voracious predators and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Consider the following bait options when targeting pike:
Live Baits: Large minnows, such as suckers, shiners, or chubs, are highly effective for pike fishing. Use a lively presentation and consider rigging them on a quick-strike rig to increase hook-up rates. Other live bait options include frogs, small fish, and even leeches.
Artificial Lures: Pike are known for their aggressive response to artificial lures. Choose lures that mimic their prey, such as:
Spinners: Inline spinners with flashy blades can attract pike from a distance. Retrieve them at various speeds to find the preferred action.
Jerkbaits: Twitching or jerking jerkbaits imitate injured baitfish and trigger pike strikes. Experiment with different depths and retrieves to entice bites.
Crankbaits: Diving crankbaits that mimic small fish are effective for covering water and triggering reaction strikes. Vary the diving depth and retrieve speed to find the optimal presentation.
Soft Plastic Baits: Large soft plastic swimbaits, paddle tails, or jerkbaits can be effective when targeting trophy-sized pike. Rig them with a weedless hook or use a weighted swimbait hook for better control.
Topwater Lures: Fishing with topwater lures can be exhilarating when pike strike explosively on the surface. Buzzbaits, poppers, and prop baits can elicit aggressive strikes, especially during low-light conditions or in weedy areas.