Since the last two posts vanished into cyberspace, will change direction a bit and take a look at spring pike fishing. Northerns like many fish who spawn early are on the prowl right after ice out. And although they are seeking out food sources, their metabolism isn’t quite caught up with the weather just yet.
Spring northern fishing has two main rules to follow, think big and thing slow. Even though northerns are a cold water fish species, they are cold blooded. So when the water temps are still chilled after ice out, these fish have yet to catch up to their normal aggressive manner.
Its big crankbait time! Even though my favorite bait for pike and their cousins the muskie are spinnerbaits, northerns are looking for big meals, easy meals right now. A large bass crankbait or smaller muskie version are good table fare. Big Rapala’s, Grandma’s, Ernies and Bombers are all good choices this time of the year.
Slow down that presentation, or at the very least alternate the speed of your retrieve. Give the bait a slight wobble, just where it rocks back and forth. Pause occasionally, if the bait floats let it rise slightly before beginning the retrieve again. If it is neutrally balanced it will suspend or hang momentarily, then start cranking again. Often this will trigger the fish into swiping at the bait.
When the season opens be ready to target those shallow areas where other fish will be coming into spawn. Mix it up in areas where the gills and crappie spawn, where you know the fish will be there lurking for an easy meal. If not the shallows, look for weed edges or close by drops. These are the areas where the pike will be lying in wait.