Ice Fishing Northern Pike

Hot action at early ice

Ice fishing northern pike in early winter is a terrific time to catch this aggressive game fish. At first ice, northern pike lurk in the shallows feeding on baitfish behind whatever cover they can find. Catching them now is as easy as it will get over the winter. So take advantage of it.

Remember to scout out the ice before you head out. Early ice poses obvious challenges and safety always has to be a priority. Play it smart and ice fishing northern pike this time of year will remain an activity anyone can enjoy.

Selecting the spot to ice fish pike takes some thought. You don’t want to just head out and start punching or chopping holes in the ice. Remember at this time of year the ice is thin enough for the pike to see you coming from above. Anglers who are too intrusive will drive the pike out of the area.

If you need ice fishing equipment you are in luck. Fortunately ice fishing for northern pike doesn’t require a big investment. A good ice rod, a few ice fishing tip-ups, minimum 15 pound test, leaders, treble hooks, a few spoons, jigs and frozen bait is all you need. If you are a pure sportsman, going with barb-less hooks is a good idea particularly with pike.

At early ice, concentrate on areas where summer and fall weed lines were prevalent. The pike should still be in the area. They will be feeding on smaller species of fish that have not yet moved to their mid-winter locations. Where the feed is, the pike are sure to follow.

Strategically cut your holes along the edge of weed lines where pike are known to strike. Arm these locations with your tip-ups enticing the northern pike to strike from the cover of the weeds.

Another area for you to capitalize is along the edge of underwater shelves or channel edges. Like weed-lines, these locations provide ample coverage for pike to hide and strike. Do a bit of homework before you head out and know the structure of the lake. It could pay huge dividends for you.

Ice fishing northern pike in early winter truly possesses some of the best fishing action of the winter season. All it takes is a bit of homework and a small investment in ice fishing equipment. If you haven’t done it, what are you waiting for? This is one terrific game fish.

Thanks for reading.

Good fishing.

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