Beginner
Pike: Leaders, Lures & Safe Handling
Use bite-resistant connections and prepare the release tools before casting.
Protect the connection
Use an appropriately rated steel, titanium or purpose-made bite-resistant leader for your target fish and lure. Thin mono or ordinary light fluorocarbon can be bitten through.
Match the rod's lure-weight rating, line and hardware to the bait. Check snaps are closed, swivels work and leader material is not kinked, frayed or damaged.
Cover weed edges
Try a spoon, spinnerbait or suitable minnow-shaped hard bait along outside weedlines and points. Retrieve at a speed that keeps the lure working without fouling weeds.
Pause or change direction when a fish follows, but keep hooks clear of the boat and other anglers. A figure-eight is not worth risking an uncontrolled rod or lure.
Prepare before the bite
Have a large suitable net, long pliers and hook cutters ready. Keep fish in the water while organizing the release. Never put fingers in the mouth or gills.
Support the body with two hands when a brief lift is necessary; do not suspend a large fish vertically by its jaw. Ask an experienced angler for handling guidance and follow local seasons and limits.
Advanced · Pike & musky
Pike & Musky: Followers, Action & Release →Need gear for this?