What is so special about pike?
Unlike fish built for roving around and migrating, pike have their fins loaded toward their back end. This gives them explosive power from a standstill when they whip their tail. The ambush prey (like whitefish or juvenile salmon or longnose suckers) in an explosion from a bed of weeds or from behind a submerged log. Pike are aggressive if not given enough space because they are territorial. They use a form of foraging known as ambush foraging.Within lakes northern pike are often found in two to fifteen feet of water, typically in and around weedbeds, rocky points and other structure where they can conceal themselves while waiting to ambush prey.Spring Season The pre-spawning period in early spring makes the pike more aggressive during that time. That translates into making them easier to catch, as well. As ice from the previous winter melts and water temperatures rise, pike will enter shallower water.
How to handle pike for beginners?
Handling Tips The best way to hold a pike is known as the chin grip. This gives you complete control of the pike and keeps your hands and fingers away from any teeth. Many northern pike anglers prefer to use braided line of at least 15-pound test because it is less likely to snap than commonly used 8-pound test monofilament line. Also, you’ll want to tie a foot-long steel or fluorocarbon leader unto the end of your line, and then attach your lure to the leader.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.Pike have extremely sharp teeth that gives them the ability to break through some line with ease. It is important to structure your line with the reel and rod set up you plan to use.
What is the best country for pike?
Europe offers a variety of exciting opportunities, with top destinations in countries such as Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands and Italy. Whether you want to fish on the famous lakes in Sweden or the channels in the Netherlands-each country has its own, unique waters and pike areas. Free sport fishing Sport fishing without a licence is permitted in some private coastal waters and in Sweden’s five largest lakes: Vänern, Vättern, Mälaren, Hjälmaren, and Storsjön (in Jämtland). In all other lakes and waters, a fishing licence or other permit is required.