Fly fishing for pike

ANGLER’S MAIL is No.1 for predator fishing advice and tips, with top pike anglers in the team. Here Andy Black offers hints to catch pike in summer, with an emphasis on fly fishing for pike which is growing in popularity…

1. PRACTICE SAFE SUN
It can get very hot on a boat all day, and there is no shade out in the middle of a big water. You often see new anglers get terribly sunburnt on returning to the jetty. So take plenty of suncream, a hat and drink lots of water. The sun will reflect off the water so good sunglasses are essential.

2. LEARN TO CAST
I was lucky in that I was taught how to cast at a young age by my dad. If you are new to fly fishing, it’s not as simple as picking a pike fly rod up and wafting it in the air. Get some lessons; it will help in the long run, and you will present the fly better! There are casting instructors around the country, so pop into your local trout fisherye and ask.

3. ALWAYS USE A WIRE TRACE
There is a trend to use heavy fluorocarbon line as a trace material for pike, but it’s not worth using it.

4. MANY COLOURS
Pike flies come in all shapes and sizes. Carry a mixture; some days they want bright flashy flies, and on others, or if the fish have been pressured, more natural-looking flies may be a better choice.

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