How to Start Pike Fishing: A Comprehensive Guide

Pike fishing is an exciting form of angling. Pike (Esox lucius) are apex predators in many freshwater ecosystems, known for their size, power, and ferocity. If you’re interested in targeting this species, there are several techniques to consider, each requiring different gear and strategies. This guide will explore the main methods of pike fishing: lure fishing, live baiting, and dead baiting, with a detailed look at the equipment needed for each and how to start pike fishing.

1. Lure Fishing for Pike

Lure fishing is an active and mobile way to fish for pike, often appealing to those who enjoy constant engagement and movement. The aim is to imitate prey species, such as small fish, using artificial lures that provoke aggressive strikes from pike. Lure fishing can be done from the bank or a boat, and it is effective in both rivers and lakes.

Key Equipment for Lure Fishing

• Rods: Lure fishing rods, sometimes called spinning or plugging rods, typically range between 6ft and 10ft in length. These rods need to be powerful enough to cast heavy lures, with casting weights typically between 15g to 60g. For a beginner, an 8ft rod with a casting weight of 15-40g is a good middle ground​.
• Reels: The two main types of reels used in lure fishing are fixed spool (spinning) reels and multiplier reels. For beginners, a fixed spool reel in the 2500 to 3000 size is ideal, as it is easy to use and reliable.
• Line: Braid is the preferred line for lure fishing because it has no stretch, allowing for excellent lure control and immediate detection of bites. A 30lb braided line is recommended for pike​.
• Lures: Thousands of lures are available, including spoons, crankbaits, jerk baits, and soft plastics. Each mimics the movement of prey fish, with the goal of triggering an instinctual response from the pike. It’s important to carry a variety of lures in different sizes and colours​.
• Trace Wire: This is essential for lure fishing, as pike have sharp teeth that can easily cut through standard fishing line. A 30lb trace wire, about 10 inches long, with a swivel and snap link, will prevent losing both your lure and the fish​.

2. Live Baiting for Pike

Live baiting is a more traditional method of pike fishing, where live fish are used to attract pike. It’s highly effective, particularly for targeting larger, wary pike that might ignore artificial lures. This method works well in still waters like lakes and slow-moving rivers.

Key Equipment for Live Baiting

• Rods: For live baiting, a rod with a 2.5lb to 3lb test curve is ideal. This will provide the strength needed to handle the weight of both the live bait and a large pike, as well as the power to cast at range.
• Reels: Large fixed spool reels are preferred, often with a bait runner mechanism. This allows the pike to take the bait and run without resistance, ensuring a more natural presentation. A reel with a large spool that can hold 15-20lb mono or braided line is recommended​.
• Line: Monofilament line with a breaking strain of 15-20lb or a 30lb braid can be used. Mono provides some stretch, which can be advantageous when the pike lunges during the fight, absorbing some of the shock​.
• Floats and Weights: A large float is typically used to suspend the live bait at the correct depth. The size of the float depends on the weight of the bait. Weights can also be added to keep the bait in a specific position, especially if you’re fishing deeper waters​.
• Trace and Hooks: A strong wire trace is crucial in live baiting to prevent bite-offs. Double or treble hooks are often used in this method, with one hook set into the back or lip of the baitfish.
• Baitfish: Popular live baits include roach, perch, and small rudd. Ensure that you check local regulations, as some areas have restrictions on the use of live bait.

3. Dead Baiting for Pike

Dead baiting involves using a dead fish as bait, either presented on the bottom or suspended in the water column. It’s a less active form of fishing than lure or live baiting, often requiring patience as you wait for pike to locate the bait. This method can be very effective during colder months when pike are less active but still hunt for an easy meal.

Key Equipment for Dead Baiting

• Rods: Similar to live baiting, a rod with a 2.5lb to 3lb test curve is ideal. These rods need to be strong enough to cast heavy dead baits like mackerel or sardine​.
• Reels: Baitrunner reels are also useful for dead baiting, allowing the pike to take the bait without resistance before striking. A large spool reel with 12-15lb mono or 30lb braid is ideal​.
• Line: For dead baiting, both mono and braid are suitable. Mono’s slight stretch can be an advantage when setting the hook, whereas braid offers better bite detection over long distances​.
• Dead Baits: Common dead baits include mackerel, smelt, herring, and sardines. These can be fished on the bottom or suspended beneath a float. Dead baits can be cast out and left in place, often attracting larger, less aggressive pike​.
• Rigs and Hooks: Like live baiting, dead baiting requires a wire trace. Popular rigs include the float rig, ledger rig, and paternoster rig. Treble hooks are commonly used to secure the dead bait.

Choosing the Right Method

The choice of technique depends on several factors, including the water you’re fishing, the time of year, and your personal preferences. Lure fishing is great for those who like to cover lots of ground and enjoy actively hunting pike. Live baiting is highly effective when you have access to quality live bait and can allow pike to hunt naturally. Dead baiting, meanwhile, is a reliable option for patient anglers targeting large pike, particularly during colder months when pike are less likely to chase after lures or live prey.

Regardless of the method you choose, having the right equipment is essential for success in pike fishing. By matching your gear to the technique and conditions, you’ll be well on your way to landing these powerful predators.