Northern pike are among the most sought-after game fish, prized for their aggressive strikes, powerful fights, and impressive size. Known as apex predators, they present an exhilarating challenge for anglers, making every catch a memorable experience. To successfully land these formidable fish, selecting the right lure is absolutely essential.
The team at Cheerfulfisherman.com stepped out of their comfort zone, leaving behind warm waters to create this ultimate guide for targeting northern pike. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll delve into the top 10 lures for northern pike, explaining why they are effective, the optimal times to use them, and the best techniques to fish them. From jerkbaits to spinnerbaits, each lure brings unique qualities tailored to different fishing conditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to refine your strategy or a beginner eager to hook your first pike, this list is your ticket to elevating your pike fishing game. With the right approach and equipment, you’ll be well on your way to landing the trophy pike of your dreams.
1. Spinnerbaits
Why They Work: Spinnerbaits are incredibly versatile and mimic the flash and vibration of baitfish. Their spinning blades create noise and movement that pike find irresistible.
Top Picks:
- Mepps Musky Killer: Known for its large blade and durable construction, perfect for big pike.
- Booyah Pikee Spinnerbait: Features a strong wire and oversized blade to handle aggressive strikes.
When to Use: Ideal for spring and early summer when pike are near the shallows.
How to Fish: Use a steady retrieve near weed edges or submerged structures. Vary the speed to entice strikes.
2. Spoons
Why They Work: Spoons have a simple yet effective wobbling action that mimics injured baitfish. Their flash and movement are highly attractive to northern pike.
Top Picks:
- Daredevle Spoon: A classic choice with a red-and-white pattern that’s been catching pike for decades.
- Johnson Silver Minnow: Weedless design makes it perfect for fishing in dense vegetation.
When to Use: Effective year-round, especially in open water or over weedy areas.
How to Fish: Cast and retrieve at a moderate speed. Adding a trailer like a soft plastic can increase effectiveness.
3. Soft Plastic Swimbaits
Why They Work: Soft plastics mimic the natural movement of prey, making them hard for pike to resist. Their lifelike action is perfect for targeting wary fish.
Top Picks:
- Storm WildEye Swim Shad: Pre-rigged with a weighted hook, offering realistic swimming action.
- Savage Gear 4D Line Thru Pike: Designed to look like a juvenile pike, appealing to cannibalistic tendencies.
When to Use: Great for summer and fall when pike are actively hunting in deeper waters.
How to Fish: Use a slow, steady retrieve or bounce them off the bottom for a more erratic action.
4. Topwater Lures
Why They Work: Topwater lures provide explosive strikes as they mimic surface prey like frogs or injured baitfish. The visual thrill is unmatched.
Top Picks:
- Heddon Zara Spook: A classic walk-the-dog lure that triggers aggressive strikes.
- Whopper Plopper 190: Known for its loud plopping sound and splash, ideal for drawing in pike from a distance.
When to Use: Best during warm summer mornings and evenings when pike are actively feeding near the surface.
How to Fish: Use a slow retrieve with occasional pauses to mimic struggling prey.
5. Crankbaits
Why They Work: Crankbaits are excellent for covering large areas and mimicking a variety of baitfish. Their wobbling action triggers pike’s predatory instincts.
Top Picks:
- Rapala Super Shad Rap: Offers a lifelike finish and strong wobble.
- Bomber Jointed Long A: The jointed design creates an erratic action that drives pike crazy.
When to Use: Effective in spring and fall when pike are actively chasing baitfish.
How to Fish: Use a stop-and-go retrieve or troll them along weed lines and drop-offs.
6. Jerkbaits
Why They Work: Jerkbaits imitate dying or injured baitfish with their darting action. Pike can’t resist an easy meal.
Top Picks:
- Rapala X-Rap: Known for its suspending action and realistic finish.
- Smithwick Rogue: Offers an erratic darting motion and is perfect for colder water.
When to Use: Best during spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler.
How to Fish: Use a twitch-pause-twitch retrieve to mimic an injured fish.
7. Buzzbaits
Why They Work: Buzzbaits create surface commotion that grabs the attention of aggressive pike.
Top Picks:
- Booyah Buzz: Durable and creates loud splashes to draw in fish.
- Strike King Tri-Wing Buzz King: Features a unique blade design for extra noise.
When to Use: Ideal for overcast days or when pike are actively feeding in shallow water.
How to Fish: Retrieve at a steady speed to keep the bait on the surface, creating a consistent commotion.
8. Glide Baits
Why They Work: Glide baits have a wide, side-to-side action that resembles a struggling fish. Their slow, deliberate movement often triggers trophy pike.
Top Picks:
- River2Sea S-Waver: Known for its smooth glide and lifelike appearance.
- Savage Gear Glide Swimmer: Offers a wide range of sizes and realistic finishes.
When to Use: Effective in clear water where pike rely on sight to hunt.
How to Fish: Use a slow retrieve with occasional pauses to mimic a wounded fish.
9. Inline Spinners
Why They Work: Inline spinners produce flash and vibration, mimicking fleeing baitfish. They’re simple to use and highly effective.
Top Picks:
- Blue Fox Vibrax: Features a unique bell design for extra vibration.
- Mepps Aglia: A classic spinner that’s been catching pike for decades.
When to Use: Perfect for spring and early summer in shallow waters.
How to Fish: Cast and retrieve steadily or add a few jerks for an erratic action.
10. Chatterbaits
Why They Work: Chatterbaits combine the vibration of a spinnerbait with the profile of a jig, creating an irresistible presentation.
Top Picks:
- Z-Man Original ChatterBait: Known for its strong vibration and durability.
- Strike King Thunder Cricket: Offers a more refined vibration and excellent hook quality.
When to Use: Great for murky water or low-light conditions.
How to Fish: Use a steady retrieve or bounce it along the bottom to mimic prey.
Final Tips for Success
- Match the Hatch: Choose lures that resemble the local forage in size and color.
- Gear Up: Use a medium-heavy rod with a strong braided line to handle the strength of northern pike.
- Location Matters: Focus on weed beds, drop-offs, and rocky points where pike love to ambush prey.
- Vary Your Retrieve: Experiment with different speeds and actions to find what works best on any given day.
Armed with these top 10 lures and proven fishing strategies, you’ll be fully prepared to take on northern pike, no matter the conditions. From their aggressive strikes to their impressive size, northern pike offer an exciting challenge for anglers of all levels. With the right preparation and tools, you can maximize your chances of success and enjoy a thrilling fishing experience. So, whether you’re casting in shallow waters, trolling deep, or navigating weed-filled areas, these tips and lures will give you the edge you need. Get out there, embrace the adventure, and happy fishing!
