TackleDexOntario tactics
How to catch Northern Pike in Ontario
Toothy, aggressive ambush predators found in nearly every Ontario water — and a blast on the right gear, including through the ice.
When to fish
All year, including hard water. Spring pike prowl shallow warming bays; summer fish hold on weed edges and drop-offs.
Where to find them
Weed-line edges, shallow bays, points, and the first drop-off. Big pike often sit just outside the weeds in cooler water.
How to catch them
Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and swimbaits cover water fast. Dead-bait under a float is deadly in cold water and through the ice.
Gear
A medium-heavy rod and — always — a wire or heavy-fluorocarbon leader. Pike teeth cut straight through mono.
Pro tip
Never skip the leader, and finish every cast with a boat-side figure-8 — pike follow and crush a turning bait.
Before you go
Always confirm the current season and limits — Northern Pike seasons & limits by zone → — and check today's bite times for your spot.
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