NIGHT FISHING FOR PIKE

There's nothing quite like being on a lake as the sun sets behind the trees. The reflection of the fading light on the water, those final casts before darkness falls, and the anticipation of a big pike strike make for an unforgettable experience. Often, we find ourselves as the last boat on the lake, trying to entice a big pike with topwater or suspending baits, like the Holy Diver.

If conditions are right, throwing a topwater bait can be exhilarating. There’s something magical about pulling a topwater lure through the water and catching a glimpse of a big fish’s dorsal fin making a wake behind it. Over the past few years, we’ve had numerous close encounters where fish were just inches behind our lure, ready to launch themselves into the air. As your heart races, it’s crucial to resist the urge to yank the lure away and risk spooking the fish. Topwater fishing remains one of my favorite techniques.

Another effective method is using suspending baits, which create a darting and stopping action. As darkness falls, this technique relies more on feel than sight. It’s thrilling to move the lure from a pause and suddenly realize that a big fish is on the other end. Quick reflexes are essential for a successful hook set. I particularly enjoy the slow, methodical approach required for this technique.

Constant movement with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and bucktails can also yield great results due to the noise these lures make in dark water. Before heading out each day, we discuss potential patterns and ensure we don’t both use the same lure. While there are times when matching lures is effective, we generally explore different options to find the most productive pattern.

In recent years, we've increasingly turned to trolling during the last light of day. This approach has produced some impressive muskie and pike catches. For instance, my son caught a sizable muskie while trolling a Mattlock just before sunset, providing a perfect photo opportunity. All our trolling poles are equipped with clickers, allowing for a swift response to a bite and minimizing the drag time for the fish.

Don’t overlook effective baits like BullDawgs and Medusas. We continue using big plastics into the darkness if they’ve proven successful. The photo at the top of this article shows one such instance where my son won a bet by catching a fish in the dark with a pounder.

We seize every opportunity to get out on the water, particularly during those late-night windows when only a few boats are present. There’s a unique thrill in knowing something is on the other end of the line and trying to land it with just a headlamp and minimal visibility.

Thank you for reading this article. If you have ideas or suggestions, please reach out to me at george@haegerdesign.com.