Canada is home to some of the best game fish in the world, and pike is no exception. Pike fishing in Canada is a popular pastime for locals and tourists alike. Known for their aggressive nature and hard-fighting abilities, pike fishing can be both thrilling and rewarding. In this ultimate guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about pike fishing in Canada, from the best fishing spots to the right techniques to catch these elusive fish.
Understanding Pike Fish:
Before you start planning your pike fishing trip, it’s essential to understand what pike fish are and their behavior. Pike are predatory fish that can grow up to 50 inches long and weigh over 40 pounds. They are native to the northern hemisphere and can be found in freshwater rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are known for their sharp teeth and strong jaws, which allow them to catch and consume small fish and other aquatic life. Pike fishing requires patience and knowledge of their feeding habits to find them, which leads to our next point.
Finding The Best Fishing Spots:
When choosing your fishing location, you want to find an area where pikes are abundant. The best pike fishing spots in Canada are typically shallow lakes and rivers, which are known for their murky waters. You can find pikes in the weeds, hidden structure, and drop-offs. Pay attention to the temperature of the water as this plays a crucial role in where they reside. Early summer or spring is the best time to fish for pikes as they spawn in these months, making them more active. Some of the best fishing spots in Canada include Manitoba’s north basin lakes, Ontario’s Lake of the Woods, Saskatchewan’s Tobin Lake, and the famous Churchill River.
Choosing the Right Equipment:
Pike are tough creatures, and you need a powerful and durable fishing gear to catch them. When it comes to selecting the right equipment, it’s essential to choose quality over the quantity. This means investing in a rod, reel, line, and hook that can handle a big catch. We suggest using a spinning rod and a reel with a good drag system. For the line, use a 20- to 30-pound braided line and attach a wire leader to avoid losing your catch. When choosing the hook, go for large and sturdy ones that can hold a pike’s strong jaws.
Techniques for Catching Pike Fish:
Catching pike fish can be a bit challenging but is worth the effort with these game fish. One of the most popular techniques used in pike fishing is baitcasting. Use a jighead or a spinnerbait and cast it over a weedy area. Slowly retrieve it with a jerking motion, causing the bait to imitate a wounded baitfish. This will catch a pike’s attention and entice them to strike. Another technique that is useful in pike fishing is trolling. You can use a variety of lures, including minnow baits or spoons, to catch your catch. Make sure to go slow and adjust the depth and speed of your lure to match the fish’s feeding habits. Lastly, live bait is also an excellent option when it comes to catching pike fish. Use small fish or minnows and drop them a few feet below the water’s surface. This will create a natural motion that pike fish are more inclined to strike.
Conclusion:
Pike fishing in Canada is an experience that should not be missed by anglers of all levels. Understanding the nature of pike and their behavior is essential to catch them successfully. By finding the best fishing spots, investing in good equipment, and using the right techniques, you can land a trophy-sized pike in no time. Remember to follow the catch and release policy to conserve these amazing creatures for the future generations to enjoy. Happy fishing!