Summer Pike Fishing

Summer pike fishing can be difficult depending on the fishing location and water temperature. This is a general guide to help you locate pike in the stressful summer months.

Where Do I Look For Summer Pike?

Generally after summer moves in most larger pike will head for deeper waters. This means you're looking for a water depth between 6-14 feet in most cases. For the most part pike will be comfortable in a water temperature between 50 - 55 degrees.

Not all pike will move to deeper water. Some larger pike will stay in shallow water if there is enough cover and a cool water temperature is present. Almost all smaller pike will stay in shallower water during the summer.

Large pike will move to points leading into bays or in between islands mainly to hunt walleye or other small fish. Basically if walleye or other small fish move through the area, there is a good chance you will find pike in the same area.

Prime Spots For Summer Pike

As a general rule for finding summer pike is simply find these characteristics in the same area:

• Deep water nearby, on at least one side
• A  weed bed or rock pile
• A good location for the pike to travel, find food, and have cover for safety

Other good locations:

• Rocky or weedy points that gradually taper into deeper water
• Weed bed humps near deep water
• Island clusters or narrows between shorelines
• River or stream mouths
• Drop off's
• Weed bed's and lily pads

Summer Pike Fishing Tackle

Basic pike fishing tackle includes:

• A main line of 15-25lb test is essential for pike fishing
• Steel leaders between 12-18 inches in length
• A large rod ( at least 6'6"-7'2") and a good quality reel

Crankbaits work great for pike in any season. Try to get a couple different colors, and sizes. Along with a shallow and deep diving lure. Spinnerbaits are another great choice and work great for working an area or spot quickly. Other options include jigs, large spoons or live bait, such as suckers.

General Tips

• When fishing, look for green healthy weeds. These weeds provide more cover for pike, and also produce more oxygen.
• Use 12-18 inch leaders as the pikes teeth will easily cut through standard line
• Bring a large landing net. This will make it easier to remove the hook, and make it less stressful on the fish
• Bring pliers or hook remover. A pike's teeth are razor sharp!
• If artificial lures arent working, try live bait such as large minnows, suckers, or shiners