Northern Pike

Habitat

Pike are ambush predators that prefer shallow, weedy water. Look for them in cabbage weed beds, lily pads, submerged timber, and along weed edges. They're commonly found in water less than 10 feet deep, especially in spring and fall.

Seasonal Patterns

Spring: Shallow, warm bays near spawning areas. Summer: Weed beds and shaded areas; may move deeper on hot days. Fall: Following baitfish to dying vegetation and rocky points. Winter: Shallower than walleye; excellent ice fishing in 8-15 feet.

Fishing Techniques

• Casting: Spinnerbaits, spoons, and jerkbaits through weed edges
• Trolling: Large crankbaits at 2-3 mph over weed tops
• Still fishing: Large live bait under a bobber near weed beds
• Fly fishing: Large streamers stripped through shallow bays

Best Lures

• Dardevle spoons (red/white, five of diamonds)
• Large spinnerbaits with willow leaf blades
• Mepps and Blue Fox spinners (#4-5)
• Jerkbaits and glide baits for aggressive fish
• Soft plastic swimbaits (5-7 inch)

Best Bait

• Large sucker minnows (6-10 inch)
• Frozen smelt or herring
• Dead bait rigs for ice fishing

Alberta Regulations

Default: 3 fish over 63 cm. No closed season on most lakes. Some trophy waters have slot limits. Wire or heavy fluorocarbon leaders required due to sharp teeth.

Identification

Elongated body with green/olive coloration and light spots. Duck-bill shaped snout with large, sharp teeth. Dorsal fin set far back near the tail.

Pro Tips

• Use wire leaders—pike teeth will cut through mono and braid
• Work lures fast in warm water; slow down in cold
• Target weed edges and points where pike ambush prey
• Long-nose pliers and jaw spreaders are essential for unhooking
• Morning and evening are prime times, but pike will hit all day

Size Information

Average Size: 2-5 kg (4-10 lb), with fish over 10 kg considered trophies

Alberta Record: 17.2 kg (38 lb) from Winefred Lake