When planning a fishing trip to an area with a high concentration of northern pike, there are a few things to brush up on to increase your chances of getting consistent bites.
Knowing the fish’s behavior, where they like to feed, which type of bait they’re attracted to and a few other common traits will have you well on your way to an enjoyable, successful fishing trip you won’t soon forget.
Come prepared and be ready to take on these large, strong fish with a voracious appetite.
Keep it moving
Northern pike are one of the largest, hungriest and hard-fighting fish you’ll come across in Northern waters.
Because of their size and aggressive nature, they should give some indication through splashing or biting they are in the area. If you’re fishing a spot that commonly sees northern pike but aren’t getting a bite, keep moving until you see some activity. We suggest moving at a fast pace with moving bait until you see a sign of the pike.
Focus on shallower, weeded areas
Northern pike are known to hang around in grassy areas with higher amounts of aquatic vegetation. Their longer body shape and sharp teeth allow them to move with ease around these typically shallower, vegetated areas and catch their desired prey.
It is suggested to fish these areas first when you are after northern pike and it won’t be surprising if you come across a large pack of them rather quickly.
Use large, colorful bait
Since northern pike have a bigger appetite than most fish, they are attracted to larger bait. They are also attracted to brighter colors of bait.
If you want the pike to get excited, consider using some of the bigger bait in your tackle box with colors that will stick out. It may seem over the top, but this has been shown to be a successful method time and time again.
Should you be planning an upcoming fishing trip and are looking for an area with a high concentration of northern pike, we invite you to join us at Mattice Lake Outfitters.
We offer some of the freshest fishing and most majestic scenery in Northwestern Ontario and our outpost camps and wilderness lodge along the Ogoki-Albany river system will provide you with a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Our camp and lodges are located on 35,000 acres and are a hotspot for finding large local northern pike, walleye, lake trout and more. Call us today at 1-800-411-0334 to book your upcoming trip!