While it may be difficult to locate these constantly on the go fish, the northern pike are fairly simple to catch once they are found. These fish are predators that quietly stalk their prey and are masters at camouflaging. Using the right kind of pike fishing equipment is only one part of ensuring that they are caught without any trouble. They are often hiding in shallow water, covered by weeds to hide. It is important the fishermen know that bigger pike are found in slightly deeper and cooler water, while smaller ones will hide in the very shallow water. When choosing an area to stop the boat and begin fishing for northern pike, it is important to find an area that has plenty of vegetation where the fish may be hiding in. Dark areas of the water with drop off spots are also ideal for catching larger fish.
The northern pike is not a very picky fish and thus, many different types of equipment can be used. Almost every type of plug can be used when fishing for northern pike. It is important to consider that fishing over a weed bed; the plug may become snagged and ruined. It is much better to try a plug which will float near the top and not become interfere with the weeds. For deeper water, choose a deep diving plug that will mimic bait and attract the fish. Moving them side to side while they are underwater is also helpful for bringing the fish in closer.
The most popular piece of equipment used for fishing northern pike is spoons. While there are many different choices available, the classic red and white, along with yellow five of diamonds, are both the most commonly picked ones. When the pike are swimming around actively, the spoons need to be dropped down quickly and be able to get pulled up quickly. Crankbaits, spoons, and plugs are all the ideal methods to fish for northern pike.
Even with all of the different pike fishing equipment recommended, it could be even better to use live bait. Sometimes these fish become lazy, especially in the cold winter months, and will not attempt to catch prey that is difficult to catch. Using live bait will better motivate them and heighten the chances of getting the northern pike to bite. On the other hand, since the fish are feeling rather lethargic during cold weather conditions, it could be even more effective to use dead bait. The northern pike often become scavengers when they are lazy and will be more likely to feed off a dead minnow or smelt then going after a fast moving lure. It is important to choose the type of equipment that will work best with how the fish are feeling and what kind of weather they are experiencing.
April 17th, 2011 at 5:00 am
[...] picking out the right pike equipment is important when it comes to fishing line, reels, and rods, but when it comes to fishing lures you [...]
January 5th, 2012 at 3:58 am
[...] never too early to think about what type of pike fishing equipment you will need once the big trophy northern pike are ready for the spring spawn. You’ll want [...]