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Fast strikes • toothy predators
Ontario Northern Pike
Aggressive fish, sudden strikes and plenty of water to search.
Ontario record: 42.12 lb
The Ontario water
Ontario record: 42.12 lb
If you want a varied northern pike fishery, Ontario offers an enormous amount of water. A fast strike and powerful surge make pike a tough customer, and many lakes hold good numbers of fish.
Pike are aggressive feeders that chase baitfish, amphibians and other prey. Because they can grow large and have sharp teeth, stout tackle, strong line, long pliers and a proper leader make handling easier for both angler and fish.
Spoons remain a favourite, and the classic red-and-white pattern has caught pike for generations. Spinnerbaits, inline spinners, bucktails, crankbaits and topwater lures also produce.
FIELD NOTE
Search shallow weeds, then go deeper
Shallow weedy bays often hold active pike, mainly in cool spring water. As temperatures rise, larger fish may slide toward deep weed edges, points and open-water baitfish. Troll or cast larger lures and be ready for a hard strike.
Watch Ontario fishing
Two videos. One next-trip idea.
Dave Mercer: Heavy-Cover Bass
Techniques for fishing weeds and thick largemouth cover.
Quick answers
Ontario fishing FAQ
Where do northern pike live?
Look in shallow weedy bays, along weed edges and around nearby deeper water where baitfish gather.
Do I need a leader for pike?
A bite-resistant leader is wise because northern pike have sharp teeth that can cut ordinary line.
Keep planning
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