When it comes to pike fishing, I’ve found that any weak link, be it a faulty leader, a weak hook or a soft rod will be immediately exposed for what it is. I had one large pike thrash by the boat and bust a lure right in half. I’ve had split rings pull out straight. I’ve had rods to flimsy for the job and they lacked the necessary power to properly set the hook. I’ve had hooks break, leaders break, line break, you name it. Pike have a habit of making you pay if you’re gear isn’t up to the task.
So I’ve put together a list of equipment that can and does help. A friend Bob once told me, “Good equipment is often the difference between hooking a big fish and landing that big fish.” I wholeheartedly agree.
Here’s a list of tackle I depend on:
The rod
Pick up a medium heavy rod with a fast taper. A 6’6” graphite or graphite composite rod can be picked up at a very reasonable cost. The reason the rod needs to be this strong is because of the pikes excellent ability to bite a lure and hold it cross ways in its powerful jaws. With a light flimsy trout rod you can yank for all you’re worth, and often times you will not get that lure to move and set the hook. This is especially true when trying to set the hooks on wood bodied lures
When you are fighting a fish, a stronger rod with the necessary backbone will help control and tire the fish out.
The reel
I like a spinning reel and I fish the middle sized ones. I use the 200 and 2500 series Shimano reels. They have been dependable and provided me excellent service through the years.
The line
I use is 14lb Fireline. The reason, it doesn’t stretch and gives me greater ability to react and effectively set the hooks.
The leader
I use a minimum 12 inch black leader. The 12 inch or longer leader protects me from the pikes sharp teeth and I choose a black leader because it is less visible, which I believe results in more bites
The tools
Pick up a pair of 8 inch needle nose pliers and a pair of jaw spreaders. They will help you remove hooks far easier.
The lures
Quite honestly, use the lures that you have the most confidence in, because those are the ones you’re bound to fish the best. I’ve mentioned a few of my favorites in the article, but there are plenty of lures that will catch fall pike.
That’s about it. Dress for the weather, enjoy the day and catch lots of fish.