Canada is famous for its beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and of course, fishing. With over 2 million lakes, Canada boasts some of the best fishing spots in the world. One species of fish that anglers come to catch in Canada is the elusive pike. Known for their aggressive behavior and predatory instincts, pike make for an exciting catch. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pike fishing in Canada.
Understanding Pike:
Before embarking on your pike fishing adventure, it’s essential to know a few things about these fish. Pike are known for their elongated body, sharp teeth, and cylindrical shape. They are predominantly found in freshwater lakes and rivers and are usually found in shallow waters. Pike are predatory fish and are often found close to weed beds, drop-offs, and other structures that provide them with cover. To catch pike, you need to have an understanding of their habits and where they are most likely to be found.
Best Time to Go Pike Fishing:
As with any other fish, knowing the best time to go pike fishing can increase your chances of making a catch. In Canada, the best time for pike fishing is between late May and early June and late August to early September. During these months, pike move towards the shallower waters to feed and spawn, making it more accessible to locate them. Another thing to keep in mind is the water temperature, as pike prefer cooler waters.
Gear You’ll Need for Pike Fishing:
To catch pike, you need specialized gear, including a sturdy fishing rod and reel, braided fishing line, and a steel leader. Pike have very sharp teeth and can easily cut through regular fishing line. A baitcasting reel is preferable as it provides more control and accuracy when casting your line. For bait, use live bait such as minnows or leeches as they are most effective. If live bait is not available, you can also use lures such as spinnerbaits or spoons.
Locations for Pike Fishing:
As mentioned earlier, pike are most commonly found in freshwater lakes and rivers. Some of the best locations for pike fishing in Canada include Manitoba, Northern Ontario, and Saskatchewan. These locations have hundreds of lakes, rivers, and streams with an abundance of pike. When choosing a location, look for areas with structures such as weed beds, drop-offs, and rocks, as these are areas where pike are most likely to be found.
Tips for Pike Fishing:
To increase your chances of making a catch, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow. Firstly, use a slow and steady retrieve when reeling in your bait or lure, as pike are not fast swimmers and tend to ambush their prey. Secondly, avoid using seasons or scents on your bait, as pike have a keen sense of smell and can be deterred by foreign smells. Lastly, practice patience and persistence, as catching pike can be challenging at times.
Conclusion:
Pike fishing in Canada is a thrilling experience that every angler should consider. Remember to understand the habits and behavior of pike, know the best time to go fishing, and use the proper gear and bait. With patience and persistence, you can catch these elusive predators and have a memorable fishing adventure.