TIPS FOR PIKE FISHING in MARYLAND


1.  Don't forget to try a jig!  We know that pike will go after crankbaits, spoons, or other fancy stuff, but if things aren't snapping out there just grab a jig.  Pike are dead-on hitters, and for them to hit anything it has to stand out from its background (see lure color choices).  Their attacks are not by chance, they stalk and bite with certainty.  The jig has to be right for them to see and hit it.

2.  Pike lure colors tend to be yellow, red, or white when the water is murky, and you can also toss out something that glows in the dark.  If using a jig, look for these colors and toss them out.  Use a big-eyed jig with good paint.  Stay away from cheap ones.  They will only bend, and the colors will chip fast.  Jigs are going to run down and hit structure, so it pays to get a good quality one for any fishing, not just going after pike.

3.  Always use a steel leader, no matter what.  First reason is the strike.  They are crazy bitters and will snap a mono line in a second, and you've lost.  Secondly, when you do hook them, they tend to bite up the line to get off.  Many are lost at that crucial moment when being landed.  You may have been fast and lucky enough to set the hook and grab them with standard line, but when you pull it in that's when the problem starts.  They don't stop trying to get away.  Steel leaders will come back chewed up as you'll see.  You'll be happy you didn't have monofilament that day, we promise.

4.  If you want big pike, use a big jig or lure!  They tend to hit such that are about 25-30% of their size.  You also eliminate many of the other smaller hits you would get from smaller fish.  Go for it, don't be shy.  They'll hit it if they are out there that day.

5.  Go weedless as well.  Many times, the big pike are prowling that cove where debris and structure sit.  A weedless hook, jig, or crankbait will give you more fishing time as opposed to re-rigging time when fishing these spots.  Always make sure to double-check your weedless hook or lure to make sure all is intact.  You really shouldn't be loosing these.  They will last a very long time, and are well worth the money.  Always use sharp hooks as well.
 

Jerry Puckett explains how to Carolina Rig a Yamamoto Lizard with a tex-posed or Tex-skinned 4/0 hook. See Video - http://videos.baits.com

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6.  Good vibrations count!  If using a crankbait, use a loud or fluttering type.  Always add a split tail trailer as well.  These fish will be highly attentive to the action of the trailer.  No need to add a hook, since a pike normally hits from the side.  You'll be set up perfectly.

7.  There is no precise retrieval or presentation method with these fish.  Try everything, just take mental notes as to what is working that day.  Conditions vary, and fish react differently because of such.  Don't waste time with one method for too long if not productive.  Make it fun and exciting for you and your fish.  Change up, pay attention, and fish away!  Practice catch and release, too. 
We always recommend that.