Ice Fishing for Northern Pike

Northern pike are apex predators that remain active throughout winter. They're one of the most exciting fish to catch through the ice, with explosive strikes and powerful fights. Tip-ups are the traditional method, but jigging can also be effective.

Tip-ups allow you to cover water and wait for pike to find your bait:

• Use large live bait: 4-8 inch suckers, large shiners, or chubs
• Hook bait through the back with a quick-strike rig
• Set baits at various depths - pike roam throughout the water column
• Check regulations for maximum number of lines and distance requirements

Pike patrol areas where they can ambush prey:

• Weed edges and remaining green vegetation
• Points and inside turns
• Shallow bays during low-light periods
• Deep weed lines and structure during bright conditions

Pike have sharp teeth and gill rakers that can cause injury:

• Use long-nose pliers or a jaw spreader for unhooking
• Support the fish horizontally when holding
• Wet your hands before handling to protect the slime coat
• Consider using a cradle for large fish you plan to release