Gear & Tackle

Species / Northern Pike / Minnesota

Pike

Northern Pike Fishing in Minnesota

An ambush predator of Northern weedy lakes and backwaters. Pike hit big, flashy baits and flies and need a wire or heavy leader.

Best Months: Apr to Jun, Sep to Oct

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Plan by Month

Best Flies, Lures & Bait for Northern Pike

Month

4 picks for October.

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Rod & Reel

Northern Pike Setup

Northern Pike

Fly 9 ft 8 or 9 wt rod, floating or intermediate line, wire or 40 lb bite tippet.

Spin / Cast 7 ft medium-heavy casting rod, 30 to 50 lb braid, steel or titanium leader.

Minnesota

Where to Catch Northern Pike

Lakes & Reservoirs · Minnesota

Lake of the Woods

A vast border lake called the walleye capital of the world, with a big winter ice fishing scene.

Walleye · Northern Pike · Yellow Perch

Minnesota

Shops to Stock Up

Recommended

Gear for Northern Pike

Reels

Abu Garcia Revo SX Baitcasting Reel

A reliable baitcaster for jigs, Texas rigs, and moving baits.

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Fly Rods

Orvis Clearwater 9 ft 10 wt Fly Rod

Backbone for big flies, heavy wind, and fish that run into the backing.

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Rods

St. Croix Musky Casting Rod

A heavy, long casting rod for big bucktails, jerkbaits, and figure-eights.

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Line

PowerPro Spectra Braided Line

Thin, strong braid for long casts, sensitivity, and pulling fish from cover.

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Hard Baits

Rapala X-Rap Jerkbait

A suspending jerkbait that shines in cold, clear water.

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Northern Pike Fishing by State

North Dakota (3)Minnesota (1)Montana (1)New York (1)South Dakota (1)Vermont (1)