Best Wire Trace For Pike Fishing (No More Cut Offs!)

When lure fishing for pike, the wire trace is an indispensable element that demands attention. Pike are known for their robust jaws and razor-sharp teeth, which can effortlessly slice through conventional fishing lines like braid, mono, or thin fluorocarbons. 

To prevent pike from cutting you off and losing your prized catch, it is crucial to choose the best wire trace for pike fishing. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which wire trace is the most effective.

With this in mind, we’ve created this helpful guide on a few things we look for in wire traces and will then link to a few good examples of wire traces for pike fishing.

Understanding the importance of a quality wire trace for pike fishing

A quality wire trace is essential for pike fishing due to the predator’s sharp teeth and strong jaw muscles. Traditional fishing lines are susceptible to being easily cut through, resulting in lost catches and wasted opportunities. 

By using a wire trace, anglers can prevent the pike from severing the line and escaping, thus ensuring they safely land all pike that have been hooked.

A good wire trace is made of durable materials that can withstand the pike’s teeth without compromising its strength. It is essential to choose a wire trace with a suitable breaking strain that matches the weight and size of your target catch. Additionally, a quality wire trace should have a thin diameter to help maintain the natural presentation of your bait or lure.

Factors to consider when choosing a wire trace

When choosing a wire trace for pike fishing, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you have the best chance of success on the water. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Material: The material of the wire trace plays a crucial role in its durability and strength. Stainless steel and titanium are popular choices as they are both strong and resistant to corrosion. Consider the water conditions you will be fishing in and choose a material that can withstand those elements.

2. Breaking strain: The breaking strain refers to the amount of weight the wire trace can handle before it snaps. Ensure that the breaking strain is appropriate for the size and weight of your target fish. It’s better to choose a wire trace that is slightly overrated than one that is under-rated and risks breaking when fighting a big pike.

3. Diameter: The diameter of the wire trace affects its invisibility in the water. A thinner diameter is ideal as it offers a more natural presentation of your bait or lure. However, be cautious not to go too thin, as that may compromise the wire’s strength.

Different types of wire traces and their benefits

Now that we have covered the important factors to consider when choosing a wire trace for pike fishing, let’s explore the different types of wire traces available and the benefits they offer.

1. Seven-strand wire trace: This type of wire trace is made up of seven individual strands of wire twisted together. It provides excellent strength and durability while also offering some flexibility. Seven-strand wire traces are a popular choice among anglers due to their ability to withstand the sharp teeth of pike and other predator fish.

2. Nylon-coated wire trace: This wire trace is coated with a layer of nylon, providing added protection against corrosion and abrasion. The nylon coating also helps to reduce wire kinking and tangling, making it easier to handle and use. Nylon-coated wire traces are suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making them a versatile option.

3. Titanium wire trace: Titanium wire traces are known for their exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion. They are lighter and more flexible than stainless steel wire traces, allowing for more lifelike bait and lure action. Titanium wire traces are a top choice for anglers targeting trophy-sized pike that require a strong and reliable wire trace.

4. Fluorocarbon trace: While not technically wire, fluorocarbon is a popular choice for anglers seeking a near-invisible leader material. Fluorocarbon is dense and sinks rapidly, making it ideal for presenting your bait or lure at the desired depth. It also has excellent abrasion resistance, ensuring it can withstand the sharp teeth of pike.

Consider the specific advantages and disadvantages of each type of wire trace, as well as your fishing preferences and conditions, to determine which one best suits your needs.

Traces for Pike Fishing We Recommend

Pike Pro Lure Trace (pre-tied) – £4.49

• All Pike Pro traces are hand-made in the UK
• Using only the finest components
• Pike Anglers Club of Great Britain seal of approval
• For use with crankbaits, plugs, spinners and spoons
• Ideal for pike and zander lure fishing
• Recommend using a braided main line when lure fishing
• Constructed from 45lb Pike Pro seven-strand wire
• Fitted with hand-crimped rolling swivels
• As well as extra-safe cross-lok swivels
• Fitted with rig sleeves over all swivels and crimps
• Added to create a neat finish and reduce tangles

Drennan Esoz Lure Trace (pre-tied) – £2.25

• Nylon-coated super Trace Pike wire
• Length: 30cm
• Breaking Strain: 34LB / 15.4KG
• Strong size 9 swivel at the upper end
• Secure, easy-to-use snap at the lure end
• Crimps covered with a streamlined sleeve to prevent tangles

Drennan E-Sox Super Trace Pike Fishing Wire – £7.75

• Stainless steel super 7-wire
• Translucent brown nylon coating
• Superfine diameter
• Extra tough kink-resistant
• Spool Size: 15m

AFW Surflon Micro Ultra Camo (knottable) – £15.99 – £19.99

• Ultra Knottable Wire Trace
• Smooth nylon coating that adds kink resistance
• You can attach this leader wire using common monofilament knots
• Comes in 5-metre spools and is a light camo brown colour.
• Low stretch and high sensitivity allow for fast hook sets

To Conclude

It is important to find the wire trace that suits your needs the best, which can only be determined by trying out a few options. It is recommended to always use a wire trace that is appropriate for the size of fish you are targeting. If you are unsure, it is better to use a wire trace with a higher breaking strain to avoid the risk of snapping off and leaving hooks in the fish’s mouth.