Pike are probably one of the most abundant fish in Northern Ontario, found in nearly all lakes, these feisty and toothy critters can be alot of fun to catch. First step in catching northern pike is locating them. Get a map of the lake you plan to fish and determine areas where pike will be holding, look for drop-offs, shallow bays and of coarse weeds. Northern pike will never be far from nice healthy green weeds. The main forage for pike is pretty much anything they can fit in their mouths, although fish, frogs and small mammals are their main food sources.

In spring, pike will be found shallow. They will be staging near spawning bays and can be difficult to catch. Post-spawn pike can be enticed by slow moving shallow running lures, like swimbaits, spinnerbaits and mepps. It's not uncommon to sight fish for big northern pike at this time of year as they will be basking in the shallows. especially on warm sunny days. Top water lures can also be deadly this time of year. Trophy sizes pike are not uncommon this time of year, so bring heavy gear. For an extra fun and challenging excursion, try fly fishing for spring pike with large streamer flies, it can be very exciting watching a big gator smash your fly.

In summer, large pike will move deeper, although they will never be far from the shallow weedy bays where they hunt for their food. Early morning and dusk are the best times to fish for summer pike as they will be on the prowl during these low light conditions. Large mepps, and jerk baits can be very productive for summer pike. Spinnerbaits or large swimbaits reeled fast over weedbeds can also be deadly this time of year.

In fall, large northern pike put on the feedbag as they prepare for winter. Again look for pike in deep water near drop-offs and points. This time of year, go big or go home. Casting large muskie baits can produce some trophy sized northern pike. Summer techniques will also work for fall pike as they can be quite aggressive this time of year.

In winter, ice fishing takes over and pike can be found in shallow weedy areas. Tip-ups with dead bait rigs rule this time of year and are nearly always productive. Jigging live minnows and large flashy spoons can also catch a fair share of winter pike. Generally weedlines and weedy flats near drop-offs are good areas to target for winter pike.

No matter what time of year, northern pike are one of the most common fish in Northern Ontario and are nearly always willing to bite. Don't forget about their teeth and use strong leaders to avoid losing that big one. Have fun and happy pike fishing.