Best lures for pike

When it comes to lures for pike fishing, there are several options that can be effective. Pike are aggressive predators and are known for their willingness to strike at fast-moving, flashy lures.

Here are some popular lure types that are often used for pike fishing:

1. Spinnerbaits. Spinnerbaits are a versatile lure for pike fishing. They consist of a metal shaft with one or more spinning blades and a skirted hook. The spinning blades create vibration and flash, attracting pike’s attention.
2. Crankbaits. Crankbaits are hard-bodied lures that imitate baitfish. They have a diving lip that allows them to dive underwater when retrieved. Crankbaits with a wide wobbling action and bright colors tend to be effective for pike.
3. Jerkbaits. Jerkbaits are long, slender lures that are designed to mimic injured baitfish. They are typically made of hard plastic and have a suspending or floating action. Jerkbaits are often used with a jerking or twitching retrieve to trigger pike strikes.
4. Soft Plastic Swimbaits. Soft plastic swimbaits are lifelike imitations of baitfish or other prey. They can be rigged with a weighted hook or used with a jighead. Swimbaits with a paddle tail or a jointed body can create a realistic swimming action that entices pike.
5. Topwater Lures. Topwater lures are designed to stay on the water’s surface and create splashes or commotion. They can include poppers, buzzbaits, or prop baits. Topwater lures are particularly exciting for pike fishing, as the strikes often occur in a spectacular and explosive manner.
6. Spoonbaits. Spoonbaits are metal lures with a concave, spoon-like shape. They have a fluttering action when retrieved, which can attract pike. Spoonbaits are available in various sizes, colors, and finishes.
7. Inline Spinners. Inline spinners consist of a spinning blade or blades attached to a wire shaft, with a dressed treble hook at the end. They are versatile lures that can be retrieved at various speeds. The spinning blade creates flash and vibration, making them attractive to pike.

10 best lures for pike

The best lures for pike fishing can vary depending on various factors such as water conditions, time of year, and personal preferences.

However, here are some highly effective lures that are often recommended for targeting pike:

1. Mepps Aglia Spinner. A classic spinner lure known for its effectiveness in attracting pike with its spinning blade and enticing action.
2. Rapala X-Rap. A jerkbait with realistic finishes and a suspending or floating action, perfect for imitating injured baitfish.
3. Strike King Red Eye Shad. A lipless crankbait with loud rattles and realistic colors, ideal for covering water and triggering aggressive pike strikes.
4. Savage Gear 3D Pike. A lifelike soft plastic swimbait designed to resemble a juvenile pike, known for enticing larger pike to strike.
5. Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner. A versatile spinner lure with a spinning blade and vibrating body, creating both flash and vibration to attract pike.
6. Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon. A weedless spoon lure that has a wobbling action, making it effective in areas with vegetation where pike hide.
7. Heddon Super Spook. A topwater lure with a walk-the-dog action, producing splashes and commotion on the surface to trigger aggressive strikes from pike.
8. Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow. A floating or suspending minnow lure with realistic finishes and a tight wobbling action, enticing pike to strike.
9. Storm WildEye Live Pike. A pre-rigged soft plastic swimbait with lifelike details and a swimming action that mimics a live pike, attracting predatory pike.
10. Musky Innovations Bulldawg. A large soft plastic swimbait designed specifically for targeting trophy-sized pike, featuring a realistic appearance and enticing swimming action.

Mepps Aglia Spinner

The Mepps Aglia Spinner is a highly effective lure for targeting pike. It is known for its ability to elicit aggressive strikes from these predatory fish. With its proven design and enticing action, the Aglia Spinner is a go-to choice for pike anglers.

The Aglia Spinner features a spinning blade that rotates as it is retrieved through the water. The blade creates flash and vibration, mimicking the movement of a wounded or fleeing baitfish. This action triggers the predatory instincts of pike, enticing them to strike.

Pike are known for their affinity for larger prey, and the Aglia Spinner comes in various sizes to cater to their preferences. Anglers can choose a larger-sized spinner to match the size of the prey fish or to entice bigger pike. The treble hook attached to the spinner is sharp and strong, designed to handle the powerful strikes and fight of pike.

The Aglia Spinner can be retrieved at a steady speed to maintain a consistent spinning action, attracting pike with its flash and vibration. Alternatively, anglers can experiment with different retrieval techniques, such as varying the speed, using jerky retrieves, or incorporating pauses, to imitate injured prey and trigger aggressive strikes from pike.

One of the advantages of the Aglia Spinner for pike fishing is its versatility in different fishing environments. It can be effectively used in both open water and around structure. Anglers can cast the spinner near weed beds, submerged vegetation, drop-offs, or other areas where pike are likely to be lurking. The spinning blade and the lure’s action make it highly visible and appealing to pike, even in murky or stained water conditions.

The Aglia Spinner is available in a wide range of colors and blade finishes. Natural color patterns that imitate baitfish are often effective, but brighter or contrasting colors can also trigger aggressive strikes from pike, especially in murky or low-light conditions.

Overall, the Mepps Aglia Spinner is a proven and versatile lure for pike fishing. Its spinning blade, flash, and vibration make it highly enticing to pike, and its adaptability to different fishing techniques and environments makes it a trusted choice among anglers targeting these fierce predators.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Versatile: The Mepps Aglia Spinner is a versatile lure that can be retrieved at various speeds and depths, allowing you to adjust your presentation based on the pike’s activity level and location. It can be retrieved steadily, imparted with twitches, or even paused to trigger strikes. Attractive Flash and Vibration: The spinner blade of the Mepps Aglia creates flash and vibration as it spins through the water, which can be highly attractive to pike. These predatory fish are naturally drawn to the movement and vibrations created by the spinning blade, making the Aglia Spinner an effective lure for enticing strikes. Realistic Appearance: The Mepps Aglia Spinner is available in a range of colors and finishes, many of which mimic the appearance of natural prey fish. This realistic appearance can fool pike into believing that the spinner is a genuine meal, increasing the chances of triggering a strike. Durable Construction: Mepps lures are known for their durability, and the Aglia Spinner is no exception. It is built with quality materials and components, ensuring it can withstand the aggressive strikes and sharp teeth of pike.

Limited Depth Range: The Mepps Aglia Spinner is generally more effective in shallower water or near the water’s surface. If pike are holding deeper in the water column or in areas with dense vegetation, the Aglia Spinner may not be the most suitable lure. In such cases, alternative lures like deep-diving crankbaits or soft plastics rigged with weighted hooks may be more effective. Line Twist: Spinnerbaits, including the Aglia Spinner, have a tendency to cause line twist during retrieval. This can result in tangles and reduced casting distance if not managed properly. Using a swivel or incorporating a leader between the mainline and the lure can help reduce line twist issues. Pike Strikes and Lure Size: Pike have sharp teeth and powerful jaws, which can sometimes result in the lure being bitten off or damaged during strikes. While the Mepps Aglia Spinner is relatively sturdy, it’s important to use the appropriate size and strength of the lure to handle the aggressive strikes and minimize the risk of losing fish or lures. Weather Conditions: The effectiveness of the Mepps Aglia Spinner may vary depending on weather conditions. Heavy winds, rough water, or low light conditions may reduce the visibility and effectiveness of the spinner’s flash and vibrations. It’s important to consider the weather conditions and adjust your presentation accordingly, such as using larger or brightly colored spinners in murky water or low light situations.

Rapala X-Rap

The Rapala X-Rap is a popular and highly effective lure for targeting pike. It is known for its realistic design, lifelike action, and ability to elicit aggressive strikes from these predatory fish.

The X-Rap features a sleek and slender body profile that mimics the appearance of a baitfish, making it a tempting meal for pike. It is typically equipped with internal rattles that create sound vibrations, adding an extra level of attraction and triggering the pike’s predatory instincts.

One of the key features of the X-Rap is its unique swimming action. When retrieved, the lure exhibits a lifelike side-to-side motion combined with a rolling action, imitating the movement of an injured or distressed baitfish. This erratic action makes it irresistible to pike and entices them to strike aggressively.

The X-Rap is designed to be fished at various depths, allowing anglers to target pike at different water levels. It can be retrieved near the surface, just below the surface, or even at deeper depths depending on the fishing conditions and pike behavior. This versatility makes it suitable for both shallow and deeper water environments.

The lure is equipped with sharp and durable treble hooks, ensuring solid hooksets and increasing the chances of landing pike when they strike. It is important to check the hooks regularly for sharpness and replace them if necessary to maintain optimal performance.

The X-Rap is commonly used with a steady and consistent retrieval speed, allowing the lure to swim with its signature action. However, anglers can experiment with different retrieval techniques, such as varying the speed, incorporating pauses, or using a twitching motion, to imitate the behavior of injured or fleeing prey and trigger aggressive strikes from pike.

The X-Rap is available in a variety of colors and patterns to match the local forage or experiment with different presentations. Natural color schemes that imitate baitfish are often effective, but brighter or more vibrant colors can also attract the attention of pike, especially in stained or murky water.

Overall, the Rapala X-Rap is a highly versatile and reliable lure for pike fishing. Its realistic design, lifelike action, and ability to be fished at different depths make it a favorite among anglers seeking pike in various fishing scenarios and water conditions.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Realistic Appearance: The Rapala X-Rap is known for its realistic appearance, mimicking the shape, color, and movement of baitfish. This lifelike presentation can be highly enticing to pike, triggering their predatory instincts and increasing the chances of a strike. Versatile Action: The X-Rap is designed to have a versatile action that allows for various retrieval techniques. It can be twitched, jerked, or retrieved with a steady retrieve, giving anglers the flexibility to imitate different types of prey fish movements. This versatility can be advantageous in different fishing conditions and when targeting pike in different moods. Diving Depth: The X-Rap is available in different models and sizes, including shallow-running, mid-depth, and deep-diving versions. This allows anglers to target pike at different depths depending on the water conditions and the location of the fish. The ability to adjust the diving depth makes the X-Rap suitable for fishing in a wide range of environments. High-Quality Construction: Rapala is known for its high-quality construction and attention to detail. The X-Rap is built with durable materials and features strong hooks and split rings, which can handle the powerful strikes and sharp teeth of pike. This ensures that the lure remains intact and reliable during intense fishing sessions.

Weight and Casting Distance: Some anglers may find that the weight of the X-Rap can limit casting distance, especially when fishing in windy conditions. This may require the use of heavier tackle or adjusting casting techniques to achieve the desired distance. Line Twist: The X-Rap, like many other lures with treble hooks, has the potential to cause line twist during retrieval. This can result in tangles and reduced performance if not properly managed. Using a swivel or incorporating a leader between the mainline and the lure can help minimize line twist issues. Pike Strikes and Lure Size: Pike are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful jaws. While the X-Rap is generally sturdy, it’s important to choose an appropriate size and strength of the lure to handle the aggressive strikes and reduce the risk of losing fish or lures. Using heavier gauge hooks or upgrading the split rings can further enhance the lure’s durability. Lure Action in Cold Water: The X-Rap’s action may become less effective in very cold water conditions, where pike may exhibit slower and less aggressive behavior. In such situations, slower retrieves or using different lures that match the fish’s lethargic response may yield better results.

Strike King Red Eye Shad

The Strike King Red Eye Shad is a popular lipless crankbait that has proven to be effective for pike fishing. It is known for its realistic design, vibrant color patterns, and enticing action that attracts aggressive strikes from pike.

The Red Eye Shad features a shad-shaped body with a flat head and a tapered tail. It is designed to mimic the appearance and swimming action of a fleeing baitfish, which is a primary food source for pike. The lifelike body profile, along with the detailed finishes and 3D eyes, adds to the lure’s visual appeal and makes it more enticing to pike.

One of the standout features of the Red Eye Shad is its built-in rattles. These rattles create a distinctive sound and vibration as the lure is retrieved through the water. The combination of the lifelike swimming action and the rattling sound is highly effective in attracting the attention of pike and triggering their predatory instincts.

The Red Eye Shad is a versatile lure that can be fished at different depths and in various water conditions. It sinks at a moderate rate, allowing anglers to fish it at different depths by adjusting the retrieval speed. It can be burned near the surface, ripped through submerged vegetation, or bounced off the bottom to imitate injured or fleeing prey and provoke aggressive strikes from pike.

When retrieved, the Red Eye Shad exhibits a tight wobbling action that is irresistible to pike. The lure can be retrieved with a steady and consistent speed, or with intermittent pauses and twitches to mimic the erratic movements of wounded baitfish. Experimenting with different retrieval techniques can help determine what triggers the most strikes from pike on a given day.

The Red Eye Shad comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, ranging from natural shad imitations to vibrant and flashy finishes. Anglers can choose colors that closely resemble the local forage or use contrasting colors to increase visibility and trigger aggressive responses from pike.

Equipped with sharp treble hooks, the Red Eye Shad ensures solid hooksets and improves the chances of landing pike when they strike. It is recommended to check the hooks regularly for sharpness and replace them if necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Overall, the Strike King Red Eye Shad is a proven and versatile lipless crankbait for pike fishing. Its realistic design, rattling sound, and enticing swimming action make it a go-to lure for anglers targeting pike in various fishing situations and water conditions.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Vibrating Action: The Red Eye Shad is known for its unique vibrating action, which creates strong vibrations and rattles in the water. This action can attract the attention of pike and trigger aggressive strikes. The loud rattling sound produced by the lure can also help to draw pike from a distance, increasing its effectiveness in murky or stained water conditions. Versatility: The Red Eye Shad is a versatile lure that can be used in various fishing techniques. It can be retrieved with a steady retrieve, ripped through vegetation, or allowed to sink and flutter on the fall. This versatility allows anglers to experiment with different presentations and find the most effective technique for enticing pike. Durable Construction: The Red Eye Shad is built with durable materials, including strong hooks and tough components, which can withstand the sharp teeth and powerful strikes of pike. This durability ensures that the lure remains intact during aggressive attacks and increases its longevity in challenging fishing conditions. Lipless Design: The lipless design of the Red Eye Shad allows for long casts and easy maneuverability through vegetation and cover. This makes it an excellent lure for covering large areas and exploring different pike holding areas, such as weed beds, rocky structures, and drop-offs.

Limited Depth Range: The Red Eye Shad is primarily a mid-depth to shallow-running lure. It may not be as effective when targeting pike in deeper waters or when pike are holding at specific depth ranges. Anglers may need to consider alternative lures or techniques to target pike at different depths. Line Twist: As with many lures equipped with treble hooks, the Red Eye Shad can cause line twist during retrieval. Pike’s aggressive strikes and their ability to roll or twist during the fight can exacerbate this issue. It’s recommended to use a quality swivel or incorporate a leader to minimize line twist and prevent tangles. Hook Size: The Red Eye Shad comes with pre-installed hooks, and while they are generally strong, some anglers prefer to upgrade the hooks to match the size and strength of pike. Pike’s strong jaws and sharp teeth can occasionally result in bent or damaged hooks, so it may be necessary to switch to stronger hooks for added reliability. Cold Water Effectiveness: The vibrating action of the Red Eye Shad may be less effective in very cold water conditions when pike’s metabolism slows down. During such periods, pike may show less interest in fast-moving lures, and slower presentations or different lure styles may be more productive.

Savage Gear 3D Pike

The Savage Gear 3D Pike is a lifelike and highly detailed swimbait designed to imitate a pike, making it a formidable lure for targeting large pike. It is known for its realistic appearance, enticing swimming action, and durability.

The 3D Pike features a precise and intricate design that replicates the features and color patterns of a real pike. From its lifelike scales and fins to its textured body and detailed eyes, the lure exhibits a level of realism that can deceive even the most cautious pike.

The lure is constructed using high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. It is designed to withstand the aggressive strikes and powerful jaws of pike, making it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing environments.

When retrieved, the 3D Pike exhibits a natural swimming action that closely mimics the movement of a live pike. Its jointed body allows for realistic side-to-side movements and a subtle rolling action, making it even more enticing to pike. The lure can be retrieved at a steady pace or with intermittent pauses and twitches to imitate the behavior of a wounded or fleeing fish, triggering the predatory instincts of pike.

The 3D Pike can be fished at various depths, allowing anglers to target pike in different parts of the water column. It can be retrieved near the surface, over weed beds, or deeper near submerged structure or drop-offs, depending on the location and behavior of the pike. The lure’s versatility in terms of retrieval speed and depth presentation increases its effectiveness in different fishing situations.

The 3D Pike is equipped with strong and sharp treble hooks, ensuring solid hooksets and improving the chances of landing pike when they strike. The hooks are strategically positioned to increase the hook-up ratio and minimize the chances of pike escaping during the fight.

To enhance the lure’s realism and attract more strikes, it is available in a variety of color patterns, including natural pike patterns and vibrant and contrasting colors. Anglers can choose the color scheme that best matches the local forage or experiment with different options to entice pike in various conditions.

Overall, the Savage Gear 3D Pike is a lifelike and effective swimbait for targeting large pike. Its realistic appearance, enticing swimming action, and durable construction make it a reliable choice for anglers seeking trophy-sized pike in freshwater and saltwater environments.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Realistic Appearance: The Savage Gear 3D Pike is designed to closely mimic the appearance and swimming action of a live pike. It features lifelike details, including scales, fins, and realistic color patterns. This high level of realism can be extremely attractive to pike, triggering aggressive strikes. Multi-Joint Construction: The lure is built with a multi-joint construction, allowing it to swim with a natural and lifelike action. The jointed body provides excellent movement and flexibility, mimicking the undulating motion of a real pike. This realistic swimming action can entice pike to strike, especially when used with a slow and steady retrieve. Durable Build: The Savage Gear 3D Pike is constructed with durable materials that can withstand the powerful strikes and sharp teeth of pike. It is designed to be durable and long-lasting, ensuring it can handle the aggressive nature of pike fishing. The lure’s toughness allows it to withstand repeated use and endure challenging fishing conditions. Versatility: The Savage Gear 3D Pike is a versatile lure that can be used in various fishing techniques. It can be retrieved with a steady retrieve, jerked to imitate an injured fish, or paused to trigger a reaction strike. Its versatility allows anglers to adapt their presentation to the fishing conditions and the behavior of the pike.

Price: The Savage Gear 3D Pike is often priced at a higher range compared to other pike lures. Its high level of detail and realism contribute to its cost. While the lure’s effectiveness can justify the price for dedicated pike anglers, it may be a consideration for those on a tighter budget. Weight: The Savage Gear 3D Pike can be a relatively heavy lure, especially in larger sizes. This weight can make casting and retrieving more challenging, particularly when using lighter tackle or fishing for extended periods. It may require anglers to use appropriate rod and reel setups to handle the lure’s weight effectively. Limited Depth Range: The sinking nature of the Savage Gear 3D Pike makes it more suitable for fishing in shallower water or near the surface. If pike are holding at deeper depths, this lure may not be the most effective choice. Anglers may need to switch to different lures or techniques to target deeper-dwelling pike. Potential Tangle Risk: The multiple joints and treble hooks on the Savage Gear 3D Pike can increase the risk of tangles, especially when casting in and around vegetation or cover. Anglers need to be mindful of their casting accuracy and retrieve technique to minimize the chances of the lure getting snagged or tangled.

Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner

The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is a versatile and highly effective lure for a variety of fish species, including pike. It is known for its unique design, enticing vibrations, and excellent casting distance.

The Vibrax Spinner features a spinning blade that rotates as it is retrieved through the water. This spinning action creates vibrations and flash, mimicking the movement of a wounded baitfish or insect. The combination of visual and auditory stimuli makes the lure highly attractive to pike, enticing them to strike.

The blade of the Vibrax Spinner is attached to a shaft that houses a metal bead or bearing. This creates additional noise and vibration, further enhancing the lure’s effectiveness. The vibrations produced by the spinner can be felt by pike through their lateral lines, making it an excellent choice for attracting their attention.

The Vibrax Spinner is designed for long-distance casting, allowing anglers to reach distant pike-holding areas. Its aerodynamic shape and weight distribution enable smooth and accurate casts, even in windy conditions. This makes it ideal for covering large areas of water and exploring different fishing spots.

The lure is available in a range of sizes and color patterns to match the preferences of pike and their feeding habits. Natural colors that imitate baitfish or bright and contrasting colors that trigger aggressive responses are commonly used when targeting pike. Anglers can experiment with different color combinations to find what works best in their fishing location.

The Vibrax Spinner can be retrieved at various speeds to imitate different types of prey movement. A steady and consistent retrieve can imitate a healthy swimming baitfish, while a faster retrieve can mimic a fleeing or injured prey. Anglers can also incorporate pauses, jerks, or erratic retrieves to trigger aggressive strikes from pike.

The lure is equipped with sharp treble hooks that provide solid hooksets and increase the chances of landing pike. It is recommended to check the hooks regularly for sharpness and replace them if needed to ensure optimal performance.

Overall, the Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is a versatile and reliable lure for targeting pike. Its spinning blade, vibrations, and long casting capabilities make it a popular choice among anglers. With the ability to mimic various types of prey and cover a wide range of fishing situations, the Vibrax Spinner is a go-to lure for enticing strikes from pike.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Irresistible Flash and Vibration: The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is designed to produce a combination of flash and vibration in the water. The spinning blade creates attractive flashes of light, while the vibrating body generates strong vibrations that can grab the attention of pike from a distance. The combination of visual and sensory stimulation can trigger aggressive strikes from pike. Versatile Sizes and Colors: The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is available in various sizes and color patterns, allowing anglers to match the lure to the specific preferences and conditions of the pike they are targeting. Different sizes can mimic various prey species, while the color options cater to different water and light conditions. This versatility increases the chances of enticing pike to strike. Easy to Use: The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is a straightforward lure to use. Simply cast it out and retrieve it at a consistent speed to create the desired blade spin and vibration. Its simplicity makes it suitable for anglers of all skill levels, including beginners. It can be an effective option for covering large areas of water and locating active pike. Durable Construction: The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is built with sturdy materials and quality components, making it durable and able to withstand the teeth and aggression of pike. The strong wire shaft, durable blade, and reliable hook ensure the lure can handle the intense strikes and fights commonly associated with pike fishing.

Limited Depth Range: The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is primarily designed for fishing in shallower waters and near the surface. It is less effective at targeting pike in deeper depths. Anglers may need to switch to other lures or techniques when targeting deeper-dwelling pike. Potential for Snags: The treble hook on the Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner can increase the risk of getting snagged or tangled, especially when fishing in areas with vegetation, structure, or cover. Anglers need to be cautious when casting and retrieving the lure to avoid snagging it on underwater obstacles. Less Effective in Cold Water: The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner tends to be more effective in warmer water temperatures when pike are more active and aggressive. In colder water conditions, when pike may be less active, the slower and more subtle presentation of other lures or techniques may be more successful. Noise and Flash Sensitivity: While the flash and vibration of the Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner can be advantageous in attracting pike, it can also be a disadvantage in certain situations. In highly pressured or clear water conditions, pike may become wary of loud noises and excessive flash. In such cases, a more subtle and natural presentation may be required.

Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon

The Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon is a classic and effective lure that has been a favorite among anglers targeting pike for many years. It is known for its unique spoon-shaped design and weedless construction, making it ideal for fishing in areas with heavy cover and vegetation where pike are often found.

The Silver Minnow Spoon features a concave-shaped spoon body made of metal, typically silver or chrome-plated. This design allows the lure to create a realistic swimming action as it is retrieved through the water. The concave shape also produces a subtle wobbling motion that imitates the movement of a wounded or fleeing baitfish, which is highly attractive to pike.

One of the key features of the Silver Minnow Spoon is its weedless design. It is equipped with a single, upright hook that is positioned at the top of the spoon body and protected by a weed guard. This setup allows the lure to be retrieved through dense vegetation, lily pads, or submerged grass without snagging or getting caught, giving anglers the confidence to fish in areas where pike are known to hide.

The Silver Minnow Spoon’s metal construction and shiny finish create flash and reflection in the water, grabbing the attention of pike. The lure’s action, combined with the visual appeal of the spoon’s shiny surface, makes it highly enticing to pike, especially in clear water or when pike are actively feeding.

When fishing for pike with the Silver Minnow Spoon, it is typically retrieved at a steady pace, allowing the lure to swim just below the surface. However, anglers can experiment with different retrieval speeds and techniques to determine what triggers the most strikes from pike on a given day.

The lure is commonly used with medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear, depending on the size of the spoon and the target pike. It can be cast and retrieved with a smooth and controlled motion, allowing the spoon to work its enticing action and attract the attention of pike in the area.

Overall, the Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon is a versatile and reliable lure for pike fishing. Its weedless design, realistic swimming action, and flash make it a go-to choice for anglers targeting pike in areas with heavy cover and vegetation. Whether pike are lurking in thick weeds or patrolling the edges of submerged grass beds, the Silver Minnow Spoon can be an effective tool for enticing strikes and landing these powerful predators.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Weedless Design: The Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon features a weedless design with a single hook that is positioned close to the lure’s body. This allows the spoon to be effectively fished in areas with heavy vegetation, weeds, and other types of cover where pike often hide. The weedless design reduces the chances of snagging and improves the lure’s ability to retrieve through thick vegetation. Attractive Flash and Wobble: The spoon-shaped design of the Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon creates a distinctive wobbling and flashing action in the water. When retrieved, the spoon wobbles from side to side and reflects light, mimicking the movements of a wounded baitfish. This action can be highly enticing to pike, triggering aggressive strikes. Versatile Retrieval Speeds: The Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon can be retrieved at various speeds to suit the preferences and mood of pike. It can be retrieved slowly for a more seductive and enticing action or retrieved quickly to trigger reaction strikes from more aggressive pike. The versatility in retrieval speed allows anglers to experiment and find the most effective presentation for the given conditions. Durable Construction: The Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon is built with durable materials, including a metal spoon body and a strong hook. This makes it capable of withstanding the sharp teeth and powerful strikes of pike. Its durability ensures it can handle the rigors of pike fishing and provide long-lasting performance.

Limited Casting Distance: The Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon is generally heavier compared to other lures, which can limit the casting distance, especially in windy conditions. Anglers may need to use heavier tackle or adjust their casting techniques to achieve longer casts. Single Hook Design: While the single hook of the Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon contributes to its weedless design, it may result in a lower hookup ratio compared to lures with multiple hooks. Pike, with their aggressive strikes and strong jaws, can sometimes miss the single hook or throw it during the fight. Proper hookset techniques and maintaining tension during the fight can help mitigate this disadvantage. Limited Depth Range: The Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon is generally more effective when fished in shallower to mid-depth waters. It may not be as effective when targeting deeper-dwelling pike or in situations where a deeper presentation is required. Anglers may need to switch to other lures or techniques to reach deeper pike. Lack of Rattle or Noise: The Johnson Silver Minnow Spoon does not have any built-in rattles or noise-making features. In certain situations, when pike are less active or in murky water conditions, lures with rattles or noise-producing elements may be more effective in attracting the attention of pike.

Heddon Super Spook

The Heddon Super Spook is a topwater lure that is highly effective for targeting pike and other aggressive predator fish. It is known for its walk-the-dog action and ability to create commotion on the water’s surface, enticing pike to strike.

The Super Spook features a slender and elongated body with multiple treble hooks attached to the underside. It is designed to imitate a wounded or fleeing baitfish struggling on the water’s surface, which triggers the predatory instincts of pike. The lure’s profile and color patterns are carefully crafted to mimic the appearance of baitfish commonly found in pike’s natural habitats.

One of the key features of the Super Spook is its walk-the-dog action. When retrieved with a series of rhythmic twitches of the rod tip, the lure glides from side to side, creating a zigzag motion on the water’s surface. This action closely resembles the movement of a wounded baitfish, which is irresistible to pike. The walk-the-dog retrieve is achieved by a combination of rod tip movements and reeling, allowing the lure to create a tantalizing presentation that draws explosive strikes from pike.

The Super Spook is designed to be fished in areas with open water or near the edges of cover such as weed beds, submerged vegetation, or structure where pike are known to ambush their prey. It can be cast and worked along the shoreline, over submerged points, or around structure to entice pike to strike. It is particularly effective during low-light conditions, early mornings, or late evenings when pike are more active near the surface.

The lure’s design incorporates internal rattles that create sound and vibration as it is retrieved. This additional sensory stimulation can attract pike from a distance and help trigger their predatory instincts. The noise and commotion produced by the Super Spook can be especially effective in enticing pike to strike in stained or murky water conditions.

The Super Spook is typically fished with medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting tackle, depending on the size of the lure and the target pike. It is recommended to use a rod with some flex to allow for better control of the lure’s action and to absorb the powerful strikes of pike.

Overall, the Heddon Super Spook is a popular and proven topwater lure for pike fishing. Its walk-the-dog action, realistic appearance, and ability to create surface commotion make it a go-to choice for anglers seeking explosive strikes from pike. With its enticing presentation and ability to draw aggressive responses, the Super Spook can be a game-changer when targeting pike in various fishing situations.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Topwater Action: The Heddon Super Spook is a topwater lure that creates a commotion on the water’s surface, imitating the movements of a wounded or struggling baitfish. This action can be highly enticing to pike, triggering aggressive strikes. The surface strikes from pike can be exhilarating and provide an exciting fishing experience. Long Casting Distance: The Heddon Super Spook is designed for long casts, allowing anglers to cover a larger area of water and reach distant targets. This is especially beneficial when targeting pike in open water or larger bodies of water. The long casting distance increases the lure’s effectiveness in locating and enticing pike from a distance. Durability: The Heddon Super Spook is built with durable materials, including a tough body and strong treble hooks. Pike, with their sharp teeth and powerful strikes, can put lures to the test. The durability of the Super Spook ensures it can withstand the aggressive nature of pike and provide long-lasting performance. Versatile Presentation: The Heddon Super Spook allows for various presentation techniques. It can be worked with a walk-the-dog action, where the lure is manipulated to zigzag back and forth on the surface. Additionally, it can be twitched, paused, or retrieved at different speeds to imitate the behavior of injured baitfish. The versatility in presentation allows anglers to adapt to different conditions and trigger strikes from pike.

Limited Effectiveness in Certain Conditions: While the Heddon Super Spook is effective in many situations, it may not be as productive in certain conditions. For example, during periods of low pike activity or in cold water temperatures, pike may be less inclined to strike topwater lures. In such cases, alternative lures or techniques may be more effective. Weather Conditions: The effectiveness of the Heddon Super Spook can be influenced by weather conditions. Strong winds or choppy water can make it more difficult to create the desired walking action or affect the lure’s ability to stay on the surface. Additionally, calm and still water may make the topwater presentation less enticing to pike. Adjusting the presentation or switching to different lures may be necessary under such conditions. Limited Depth Range: The Heddon Super Spook is primarily designed for fishing on the water’s surface. It may not be as effective when targeting deeper-dwelling pike or in situations where a deeper presentation is required. Anglers may need to switch to other lures or techniques to reach deeper pike. Hooking Efficiency: The Heddon Super Spook is equipped with treble hooks, which can sometimes result in missed or poorly hooked fish. Pike, with their aggressive strikes and thrashing movements, can sometimes throw the hooks during the fight. Proper hookset techniques and maintaining tension during the fight can help improve hooking efficiency.

Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow

The Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow is a versatile and effective lure that is popular among anglers targeting pike and other predator fish. It is known for its realistic appearance, durable construction, and enticing swimming action.

The Crystal Minnow features a slender, minnow-shaped body with a highly reflective and transparent finish. This finish creates a lifelike appearance and allows the lure to mimic the flash and color patterns of baitfish, which pike find irresistible. The realistic 3D eyes and detailed scales further enhance its visual appeal.

The lure is constructed using high-quality materials, including a durable polycarbonate body and sturdy hardware. This ensures the Crystal Minnow can withstand the aggressive strikes and powerful jaws of pike, as well as the rigors of repetitive casting and retrieving.

One of the key features of the Crystal Minnow is its unique swimming action. It is designed to swim with a tight and erratic side-to-side motion, imitating the movement of a wounded or disoriented baitfish. This action is achieved by a combination of its weighted body and a precisely engineered lip, which causes the lure to dive and dart when retrieved. The erratic swimming action of the Crystal Minnow is highly effective at triggering predatory instincts and enticing pike to strike.

The lure is typically fished with a steady retrieve, allowing it to swim at a consistent depth. However, anglers can also experiment with varying retrieval speeds, pauses, or twitches to imitate different prey behaviors and trigger more aggressive responses from pike. The Crystal Minnow can be used in a variety of fishing environments, including open water, weed edges, submerged structure, or along the shoreline, making it a versatile choice for targeting pike in different situations.

The Crystal Minnow is available in a range of sizes and color patterns, allowing anglers to match the local baitfish species or experiment with different combinations to find what pike are most responsive to. The lure’s versatility in terms of size and color selection increases its effectiveness in various fishing conditions and helps anglers adapt to the preferences of the pike in their target area.

The Crystal Minnow is equipped with sharp and durable treble hooks that ensure solid hooksets and increase the chances of landing pike when they strike. It is recommended to check the hooks regularly for sharpness and replace them if needed to maintain optimal performance.

Overall, the Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow is a reliable and attractive lure for pike fishing. Its realistic appearance, durable construction, and enticing swimming action make it a go-to choice for anglers seeking to entice strikes from pike. Whether retrieved with a steady retrieve or with occasional twitches and pauses, the Crystal Minnow is designed to provoke aggressive responses and increase the chances of hooking into these powerful predator fish.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Realistic Appearance: The Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow features a highly realistic design and finishes that closely imitate the appearance of a baitfish. Its 3D eyes, translucent body, and detailed scale patterns make it an attractive target for pike. The realistic appearance can entice pike to strike, especially in clear water or when pike are targeting specific prey species. Diving and Swimming Action: The Crystal Minnow is a diving lure that can reach different depths depending on the model and retrieve speed. It has a tight wiggling action and a realistic swimming motion, mimicking the movements of a wounded or fleeing baitfish. This action can trigger aggressive strikes from pike, as they are known to target prey in motion. Long Casting Distance: The Crystal Minnow is designed for long casts, allowing anglers to cover a larger area of water and reach distant targets. This is particularly advantageous when pike are located at a distance or in open water. The long casting distance increases the lure’s effectiveness in locating and enticing pike. Durable Construction: The Crystal Minnow is built with durable materials, including a tough body and strong treble hooks. Pike have sharp teeth and powerful strikes, which can put lures to the test. The durable construction of the Crystal Minnow ensures it can withstand the aggressive nature of pike and provide reliable performance.

Snagging: The Crystal Minnow has treble hooks that can increase the chances of snagging on underwater structure, such as vegetation, rocks, or submerged logs. This can lead to lost lures and frustration. Anglers need to be mindful of the lure’s position and retrieve technique to minimize snagging. Limited Depth Range: While the Crystal Minnow can dive to specific depths, it may not be as effective in targeting deeper-dwelling pike or in situations where a deeper presentation is required. Anglers may need to switch to other lures or techniques to reach deeper pike. Weather Conditions: The effectiveness of the Crystal Minnow can be influenced by weather conditions. Strong winds or choppy water can affect the lure’s action and make it more challenging to control. Additionally, calm and still water may make the swimming action less enticing to pike. Adjusting the presentation or switching to different lures may be necessary under such conditions. Hooking Efficiency: The Crystal Minnow is equipped with treble hooks, which can sometimes result in missed or poorly hooked fish. Pike, with their aggressive strikes and thrashing movements, can sometimes throw the hooks during the fight. Proper hookset techniques and maintaining tension during the fight can help improve hooking efficiency.

Storm WildEye Live Pike

The Storm WildEye Live Pike is a lifelike and highly realistic soft plastic lure designed to imitate the appearance and swimming action of a live pike. It is a popular choice among anglers targeting pike and other predatory fish.

The WildEye Live Pike features a soft body made of durable yet flexible materials, giving it a natural feel and movement in the water. It is designed with intricate details that closely resemble a real pike, including lifelike color patterns, scales, and fins. The lure’s lifelike appearance, combined with its realistic eyes, adds to its overall effectiveness in attracting pike.

One of the key features of the WildEye Live Pike is its internal weight system. This system allows the lure to sink to the desired depth when retrieved and provides stability during the swimming action. It also enhances casting distance, making it easier for anglers to reach their target areas where pike may be lurking.

The WildEye Live Pike is equipped with a strong and sharp treble hook, ensuring solid hooksets when pike strike. Additionally, it is designed with a secure hook connection point, reducing the chances of losing a fish during the fight. The lure’s hook placement also minimizes the risk of snagging or getting caught in weeds or other structures where pike are commonly found.

The swimming action of the WildEye Live Pike is realistic and enticing. When retrieved, the lure produces a side-to-side swimming motion that mimics the movement of a live pike. This action, combined with the lure’s lifelike appearance, triggers the predatory instincts of pike and entices them to strike.

The WildEye Live Pike can be fished using various techniques, such as a steady retrieve, twitching and pausing, or a combination of both. Anglers can experiment with different retrieval speeds and actions to imitate the behavior of a wounded or fleeing pike, which can be highly effective in triggering aggressive strikes.

The lure is available in different sizes to accommodate various fishing conditions and the preferences of the pike. Larger sizes are often used when targeting trophy-sized pike, while smaller sizes can be effective for enticing strikes from average-sized fish.

Overall, the Storm WildEye Live Pike is a lifelike and effective lure for pike fishing. Its realistic appearance, lifelike swimming action, and durability make it a reliable choice for anglers seeking to fool pike into biting. Whether retrieved at a steady pace or with a more erratic action, the WildEye Live Pike is designed to attract the attention of pike and provoke them to strike.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Realistic Appearance: The Storm WildEye Live Pike is designed to closely resemble the appearance of a live pike. It features a lifelike body shape, detailed color patterns, and 3D holographic eyes that mimic the look of a real fish. The realistic appearance can attract the attention of pike and trigger aggressive strikes. Lifelike Swimming Action: This lure is equipped with a soft and flexible body that produces a natural swimming action in the water. The body’s jointed design allows it to move realistically, replicating the movements of a live fish. The lifelike swimming action is highly enticing to pike and can elicit strikes from even the most cautious predators. Durable Construction: The Storm WildEye Live Pike is constructed with high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the powerful strikes and sharp teeth of pike. The body is made of a durable soft plastic material, while the hooks are strong and sharp. This durability ensures that the lure can endure the aggressive nature of pike and withstand multiple strikes without losing its effectiveness. Versatile Use: The Storm WildEye Live Pike can be used in various fishing situations and techniques. It can be cast and retrieved, trolled, or even jigged depending on the angler’s preference and the fishing conditions. Its versatility allows anglers to adapt to different pike fishing scenarios and increase their chances of success.

Limited Depth Range: The Storm WildEye Live Pike has a predetermined swimming depth and may not be as effective in targeting pike in deeper waters. It is more suitable for fishing in shallower areas or when targeting pike near the surface. Anglers may need to switch to different lures or techniques to reach deeper-dwelling pike. Snagging Potential: The treble hooks on the Storm WildEye Live Pike can increase the chances of snagging on underwater structures, such as vegetation, rocks, or submerged logs. This can lead to lost lures and frustration. Anglers should be mindful of the lure’s position and retrieve technique to minimize snagging. Hooking Efficiency: The treble hooks on the Storm WildEye Live Pike may not always result in perfect hookups. Pike, with their aggressive strikes and thrashing movements, can sometimes throw the hooks or become poorly hooked during the fight. Proper hookset techniques and maintaining tension during the fight are essential to improve hooking efficiency. Price: The Storm WildEye Live Pike is generally priced higher compared to some other pike lures on the market. While it offers great realism and performance, the higher price point may not be suitable for anglers on a tight budget.

Musky Innovations Bulldawg

The Musky Innovations Bulldawg is a highly effective and popular lure specifically designed for targeting pike. It is known for its large size, lifelike appearance, and enticing swimming action, making it a go-to choice for anglers seeking trophy-sized pike.

The Bulldawg features a soft plastic body with a long and slender profile, resembling a baitfish that pike feed on. It is often equipped with multiple treble hooks strategically placed along its body to increase hooking potential when pike strike. The lure’s soft plastic construction allows for a natural and realistic movement in the water, further enhancing its effectiveness in triggering pike to strike.

One of the key features of the Bulldawg is its unique swimming action. When retrieved, the lure exhibits a tantalizing side-to-side swimming motion that closely mimics the movement of a wounded or distressed baitfish. This action is achieved by the combination of its soft body and the placement of its multiple treble hooks. The lifelike swimming action of the Bulldawg is highly enticing to pike and can elicit aggressive strikes.

The lure can be fished using various retrieval techniques. A steady retrieve at a moderate pace is a common approach, allowing the Bulldawg to swim at a consistent depth and showcase its realistic swimming action. Anglers can also experiment with pauses, twitches, and jerks during the retrieve to imitate different prey behaviors or trigger reaction strikes from pike.

The Bulldawg is typically used with heavy-duty spinning or baitcasting tackle, as it requires robust equipment to handle its size and the powerful strikes of pike. A strong and sturdy rod with heavy line and a solid drag system is recommended to successfully land trophy-sized pike.

The Bulldawg comes in different sizes and color patterns, allowing anglers to match the local forage and adapt to the preferences of pike in their target area. Bright, flashy colors or natural baitfish imitations are often effective choices when fishing for pike.

It is important to note that the Bulldawg is a lure designed for larger, more aggressive pike. It is intended to entice strikes from trophy-sized fish and may not be as effective when targeting smaller pike or in waters with limited pike populations.

Overall, the Musky Innovations Bulldawg is a reliable and productive lure for pike fishing. Its lifelike appearance, realistic swimming action, and large size make it a prime choice for anglers pursuing trophy-sized pike. Whether retrieved steadily or with intermittent twitches, the Bulldawg’s enticing movement and lifelike presentation can provoke explosive strikes from these formidable predators.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Lifelike Appearance: The Musky Innovations Bulldawg is designed to closely mimic the appearance of a live baitfish. It features a realistic body shape, detailed color patterns, and a soft yet durable construction. The lifelike appearance of the Bulldawg can effectively attract the attention of pike and trigger aggressive strikes. Irresistible Action: The Bulldawg is known for its unique swimming action. The soft plastic body is equipped with multiple tails and appendages that create a lifelike swimming motion in the water. The combination of the body’s flexibility and the tails’ pulsating action produces an enticing presentation that pike find hard to resist. Versatility: The Musky Innovations Bulldawg can be used in various fishing techniques and situations. It can be cast and retrieved, trolled, or jerked, allowing anglers to adapt to different fishing conditions and pike behavior. Its versatility makes it a versatile tool in the pursuit of pike. Durable Construction: The Bulldawg is built to withstand the powerful strikes and sharp teeth of pike. The soft plastic body is made from durable materials that can withstand multiple strikes without losing its effectiveness. The lure’s construction ensures that it can handle the aggressive nature of pike and provide durability and longevity.

Large Profile: The Bulldawg has a larger profile compared to some other pike lures. While this can be advantageous in attracting bigger pike, it may be less effective in situations where pike are targeting smaller baitfish. In such cases, downsizing to a smaller lure may yield better results. Weight: The Bulldawg is a relatively heavy lure, which can limit its effectiveness in shallow or weedy areas. It may not perform well in situations where a lighter presentation is required to navigate through vegetation or mimic the behavior of smaller prey. Price: The Musky Innovations Bulldawg is generally priced higher compared to some other pike lures on the market. Its high-quality construction and lifelike design contribute to its price point. Anglers on a budget may need to consider the cost when choosing this lure. Potential Snagging: The multiple tails and appendages of the Bulldawg can increase the chances of snagging on underwater structures, such as weeds or submerged logs. Anglers need to be cautious when fishing in areas with dense vegetation or obstacles to prevent unnecessary snagging.