Pike Fishing Equipment
Essential gear guide for targeting northern pike, from rods and reels to leaders and landing tools.
In This Guide
Rod & Reel Setup
Casting Setup:
- Rod: 7-8' medium-heavy to heavy power, fast action
- Reel: Sturdy baitcasting reel with smooth drag (minimum 15 lb drag capacity)
- Line: 40-65 lb braided line
Why This Setup: Long rods improve casting distance and figure-8 maneuvers. Heavy power handles large pike and pulls fish from weeds. Strong reels prevent failure during powerful runs.
Trolling Setup:
- Rod: 7-8' medium-heavy power with moderate action
- Reel: Line counter reel for consistent depth control
- Line: 30-50 lb braided main line with 17-25 lb fluorocarbon leader
Leaders - The Most Important Piece
Pike will cut through any line that isn't protected. Leaders are mandatory:
Fluorocarbon Leaders (80-130 lb):
- Less visible than wire
- Allows more natural lure action
- Must be checked frequently and replaced when damaged
- Best for clear water and wary fish
Titanium Leaders:
- Most durable - rarely need replacement
- Kink-resistant
- Slightly more visible
- Best for heavy cover and toothy fish
Wire Leaders:
- Traditional and effective
- Most affordable
- Kink after catches - replace frequently
- Available in various lengths and strengths
Pro Tips
- 18-24" leaders are ideal for most applications
- Use quality snaps and swivels - never cheap hardware
- Check leaders before every cast, especially after catching fish
Landing & Handling Gear
Pike require specialized tools for safe handling:
Net: Large rubber mesh net (minimum 24" x 24" hoop). Rubber is easier on fish and tangles less with hooks.
Pliers: Long-nose pliers (12"+) are essential. Keep them accessible.
Jaw Spreaders: Keep pike mouths open while unhooking.
Bolt Cutters: For deeply hooked trebles - cutting hooks is safer than digging.
Gloves: Protect hands from teeth and reduce slime removal.
Unhooking Mat: Protects fish during handling on shore or in boat.
Important
- Never put fingers in a pike's gill plate - gill rakers cause serious cuts
- Keep first aid supplies nearby - pike injuries are common
- Respect the teeth - even small pike can cause nasty wounds
Lure Selection
Starter Pike Tackle Box:
- Spinnerbaits: 1/2 oz and 3/4 oz in white/chartreuse and firetiger
- Spoons: Dardevle or similar in 1 oz, red/white and five of diamonds
- Crankbaits: 4-6" minnow baits in perch and firetiger
- Swimbaits: 6-8" paddle tails in white and natural colors
- Jerkbaits: One glide bait for advanced techniques
Live Bait Rigging:
- Circle hooks: 4/0-8/0 for quick-strike rigs
- Bobbers: Large slip bobbers supporting 6-8" baitfish
- Weights: Split shot and egg sinkers for depth control
Pro Tips
- Start with a few proven patterns and add variety over time
- Pike prefer larger lures - don't be afraid of big baits
- Carry backup treble hooks - pike destroy hooks