What time of year is pike season?

Traditionally, fishing for pike has pretty much always been a winter pursuit. In general terms, the pike 'season' begins 1 October and runs until the close of the river coarse fishing season on 14 March.

Is there a pike season in the UK?

The UK government does not have a set pike fishing season. However, dedicated lure anglers often target them between October and March. This gives the fish time to spawn in spring.

When not to fish for pike?

At this time of year the water temp is usually up to about 10/12 degrees and they hit the lures really hard, really aggressively and in big numbers. I tend to not fish specifically for pike much from July to September, partly as the water temps are up but also partly as I target other species like Perch and Chub.

What time is pike most active?

Pike are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these the best times to fish. During these periods, Pike move into the shallows to feed. This is when you can often see them chasing baitfish, providing an exciting sight for any angler.

What month is best for pike fishing?

Traditionally, fishing for pike has pretty much always been a winter pursuit. In general terms, the pike 'season' begins 1 October and runs until the close of the river coarse fishing season on 14 March.

Best Time to Catch Pike Explained – Proven Seasons, Times & Expert Tips for Monster Pike Fishing

What is the best bait for pike?

Adult northern pike have a fondness for perch and suckers in the 4- to 15-inch range. Baits that mimic these species are good choices. Northern pike often stalk their prey from below, which means jerk bait lures that mimic an injured or dying fish can be a good choice too.

What is the best depth to fish for pike?

Ideal depth for catching Northern Pike ice fishing

Northern Pike tend to inhabit water depths oscillating from 6 to 12 feet. When the water is colder, which is throughout the winter, they are frequently found in shallower water as well.

Do pike go deep in winter?

In the Winter Pike can be found in the deeper holes as well as in the shallows around tree trunks, under moored boats and in dense weed-lines, much the same as the rest of the year. Stealth is a must at the water's edge in order not to spook fish hiding in front of you.

Should you use a leader when fishing for pike?

The answer depends a lot on the lure type and presentation involved. For certain pike and muskie fishing methods, a leader isn't necessary, and for others, it's almost mandatory.

What's the biggest pike ever caught?

With Capt. Matteo de Santis at the helm, after measuring and documenting the total length of the fish, they released it alive. While no weight was taken, by way of a reference point, the all-tackle weight-record pike that weighed 55 pounds, 1 ounce, measured 54.54 inches.

Is a 2 foot pike big?

Northern Pike Speed and Average Size

The average Northern Pike is 2 feet long and 34 pounds. The largest pike ever caught in the U.S. was reportedly 4 feet 10 inches.

What is the best river for pike fishing in the UK?

River Wye

The River Wye, straddling the border between England and Wales, is a haven for pike anglers. This river is teeming with pike, and it offers a variety of fishing methods, including bait fishing, lure fishing, and fly fishing. "The River Wye is a pike angler's paradise.

Can you lure fish all year round?

Lure fishing in the winter is tougher, but many species are around still, including bass, just in lower numbers. Some species are more plentiful in winter than summer, like herring. Try utilising the guides on this site to target a wider range of species to increase your chances of catching in winter.

Do pike live in canals?

The pike is a large fish that can grow over a metre in length. It is found in lakes and slow-flowing rivers and canals that have a lot of vegetation.

Is pike fishing hard?

Pike fishing can be a real challenge when you add in poor weather conditions and flooding. After spawning in February to May, a summer of feeding regaining their strength and condition make the Pike strong, fit and healthy for the winter.

Are pike in shallow water?

Pike haunt the shallow bays and weed beds of northern lakes throughout the year. Big pike, however, will move to deeper water during long, hot summer days. Many pike fishermen believe pike quit hitting once the water temperature has reached 65 degrees. Some will even tell you that in the summer they lose their teeth.

Where to catch a 30lb pike?

Ten Mile Bank, Kings Lynn, Norfolk. This long, featureless water holds a good head of pike with the odd fish to over 30lb. Fishing the reedy margins with lures and wobbled baits is a good way to explore a stretch of this wide Fenland drain. Try the section at Modney Bridge.

Are pike good to eat?

Northern Pike are an excellent food fish. They have white, flaky meat. While they're considered “bony” you can get five nice fillets off a 24+ inch long pike. Sharpen your fillet knife frequently to ensure you get the most meat possible and have nice clean cuts.

Is a 10 pound line good for pike?

Pike Fishing Tips:

Although moderately heavy monofilament line in the 10-pound range gives you an advantage in a tugging battle with a large Northern, somewhat lighter line in the 6 to 8 pound-test range provides better casting range and greater precision in placing your lure close to weed beds and cover.

What temperature are pike most active at?

Numerous biological studies have shown that pike up to about five pounds prefer water temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Larger, trophy-size northern pike prefer water temperatures in the 50-55-degree range.

What smells attract pike?

Some popular ones include mackerel, herring, sardine, pilchard and smelt. Additionally, there are also more exotic blends, combining multiple scents, designed to trigger the predatory instincts of pike.

What color do pike see best?

Pike have a sensitive lateral line, which helps detect the vibrations your lure is giving off. When fishing in low-light conditions and murky water, choose a variety of darker colors. Compared to a well-lighted condition in clearwater, choose colors like chartreuse, yellow, and white.

Are spoons good for pike?

It's true that spoons do a fine job of tempting pike into striking, but my experience with spoons suggests that these baits work best when fish are actively feeding. The wobbling and flashing action of a spoon requires a steady and fairly fast retrieve speed.