Ultimate Guide to Fishing for Northern Pike

The Ultimate Guide to Fishing for Northern Pike in Ontario, Canada
Fishing for Northern Pike in Ontario, Canada, is an incredible experience. These fierce predators are known for their ferocious appetite and explosive strikes, making them a favorite target for anglers. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the best times to fish for Northern Pike, the most effective lures, and essential tips to maximize your chances of success. We’ll also delve into the fascinating biology and habits of these remarkable fish, along with Ontario’s largest pike record.

Biology and Habits of the Northern Pike

The Northern Pike (Esox lucius) is a freshwater fish native to North America, Europe, and northern Asia. In Ontario, Canada, these long, torpedo-shaped fish are abundant in lakes and rivers. They have a characteristic olive-green color with white spots, a flat, duckbill-like snout, and sharp, needle-like teeth.

Northern Pike are ambush predators that primarily feed on smaller fish, like perch, walleye, and even other pike. However, they are also known to consume frogs, small mammals, and birds. They are most active during the day, usually hunting in shallow, weedy areas where they can camouflage themselves among aquatic plants.

Best Times of the Day

Northern Pike are typically most active during the early morning and late afternoon. These are the best times to fish for pike, as they move to shallower waters to hunt for prey. To increase your chances of catching a trophy-sized pike, try fishing during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk.

Best Times of the Year

The best times to fish for Northern Pike in Ontario are during the spring and fall seasons. The ideal months are May to June and September to October. In spring, the fish are active and hungry after a long winter, while in the fall, they are feeding aggressively in preparation for the colder months ahead.

Best Weather Conditions

Northern Pike prefer cooler water temperatures and are more active during overcast and cloudy days. Slight to moderate wind can also be beneficial, as it helps to mix the water, increasing the oxygen levels, and stimulating the pike’s feeding activity.

Top Five Lures for Northern Pike Fishing in Ontario

1. 1. Inline Spinners: These classic lures have a blade that spins around a wire shaft, creating a flash and vibration that attracts pike. Examples include the Mepps Aglia and Blue Fox Vibrax.

      

1. 1. Spoons: These metal lures mimic the action of a wounded baitfish, making them irresistible to pike. Popular options include the Len Thompson Yellow & Red Five of Diamonds and the Johnson Silver Minnow.

1. 1. Crankbaits: These lures have a diving lip that allows them to swim at various depths, depending on their design. Some reliable choices are the Rapala Shad Rap and the Storm Wiggle Wart.

1. 1. Jerkbaits: These slender, minnow-shaped lures can be twitched erratically to imitate injured prey. The Rapala X-Rap and the Lucky Craft Pointer are excellent examples.

1. Soft Plastic Swimbaits: These realistic lures have a lifelike swimming action that can trigger aggressive strikes from pike. Notable options include the Storm Wildeye Swim Shad and the Berkley PowerBait Hollow Belly Swimbait.

   

Ontario’s Largest Pike Record

The largest recorded Northern Pike caught in Ontario, Canada, weighed an impressive 42.12 pounds (19.12 kg) and measured 54 inches (137 cm) in length. This behemoth was caught by Harry Bell on July 14th 1946 on the Delaney River near Kenora. This impressive record has stood for many years, proving the potential for trophy-sized Northern Pike in Ontario’s waters.

Fishing for Northern Pike

Fishing for Northern Pike in Ontario, Canada, is a thrilling experience that every angler should have on their bucket list. With the right knowledge, techniques, and gear, you can increase your chances of catching a trophy-sized pike. Remember to focus on the early morning and late afternoon hours, fish during the spring and fall months, and pay attention to weather conditions. Don’t forget to arm yourself with some of the most effective lures, such as inline spinners, spoons, crankbaits, jerkbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable Northern Pike fishing memories in Ontario’s vast and beautiful waterways.