Last updated on August 17th, 2023
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Discovering the best pike lures is essential for dedicated pike fishermen who are keen on catching northern pike. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into various lure styles and techniques to help you find the perfect fit for your angling adventures.
We’ll start by discussing casting for pike and exploring different types of lures, such as spinners, crankbaits, and rubber lures. Additionally, we’ll cover casting techniques, including spinning reels vs. baitcasting reels and working the shoreline and structure.
Moving on to trolling for pike, we’ll examine wobblers, plugs, and jigs along with trolling strategies like boat speed control and using downriggers or planer boards. Lastly, we will share some valuable tips on where you can find the best pike lures depending on the fish technique you use, such as trolling and casting online or at local tackle shops.
Editor’s Picks: 6 Best Lures for Pike of 2023
Best Casting Lures for Pike:
Best Trolling Lures for Pike:
Table of Contents:
Casting for Pike
Casting for pike is a great way to target these hard-fighting fish. There are many types of lures that can be used when casting, including spinners, crankbaits, and rubber lures. Every lure has its own particular properties, which make it advantageous or ineffective in certain situations.
Spinners are one of the most popular choices for targeting pike when casting. These lures feature a rotating blade that creates vibration and flashes in the water as they’re retrieved. They come in various sizes and colors, making them an ideal choice for anglers looking to match the hatch with their presentations. Spinners also have the advantage of being relatively easy to use—just cast out your spinner and start retrieving.
Crankbaits are another excellent option for targeting pike while casting. These lures resemble small baitfish and create a tight wobbling action as they’re retrieved through the water column. Crankbaits come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and actions, so you can find one to match almost any situation you may encounter on the water. They also offer anglers more control over their presentation than other types of lures since you can adjust how deep your lure runs by changing your retrieve speed or adding weight to it if needed.
Rubber lures such as worms, grubs, or frogs or ducklings are often overlooked when fishing for pike but can be very effective at times too. These baits work best around shallow cover like weed beds where they mimic small prey items such as insects or amphibians that live there naturally—making them irresistible targets for hungry predators like pike. When using rubber baits, remember to keep them moving slowly so they don’t get snagged up on weeds or structures underneath your boat before reaching its intended target area—this will help increase your chances of success.
Casting for pike is an effective way to target these predators, as the wide variety of lures and techniques available make it possible to present bait in almost any situation. Trolling for pike requires different tactics that can be used to maximize success when targeting this species.
Key Takeaway: Casting for pike is a great way to target these hard-fighting fish, and the best lures to use are spinners, crankbaits, or rubber worms. All of them offer unique characteristics that can be matched with specific conditions, and anglers have more control over their presentations when using these lures than others.
Best Casting Lures for Pike
Disclaimer: All products in this article were independently researched and reviewed by our team of experienced anglers. Learn more about our review process here. We use so-called affiliate links in this article. This means that if you click on one of the links provided in this article and end up making a purchase, we might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we’ve tested and believe in.
Rapala X-Rap Otus XROU-25 Color HTP
Specs:
- Length: 25 cm
- Running depth: 0.5-1 m
- ABS Body with Soft PVC Tail
- 6-Point Stainless Plate Tail Locking System
- VMC Coastal Black Treble Hooks
Why we picked it:
Recently, I got the chance to try out the Rapala X-Rap Otus XROU-25 lure. Known for its innovative design, this lure has gained quite a reputation among anglers. Here’s my detailed review of it.
Product Specs & Key Features:
The Rapala X-Rap Otus XROU-25 is a 10-inch, 3.5-ounce lure designed with a curly tail, which gives it an enticing rolling action. The tail is interchangeable and is made of soft, durable plastic. The lure comes with a VMC Coastal Black treble hook and features a two-part body design that enables slow retrieves for more life-like movement.
Use Cases:
This lure is perfect for targeting larger predatory fish species like pike and musky. Its large profile and slow-rolling action make it an excellent choice for fishing in larger bodies of water.
Pros:
- Innovative Design: The two-part body design and interchangeable curly tail create a unique, life-like movement that’s highly attractive to fish.
- Quality Construction: The lure is well-made and designed to withstand the rigors of fishing for larger species.
- Effective Hook: The VMC Coastal Black treble hooks are sharp and durable, ensuring a high hook-up ratio.
- Versatile: Despite being geared towards larger fish, the X-Rap Otus can still be effective with a variety of other species.
Cons:
- Size: At 10 inches, this lure might be too large for some anglers’ preferences or for targeting smaller fish.
- Price: The X-Rap Otus is a bit on the pricier side compared to some other options.
Personal Experience:
Fishing with the Rapala X-Rap Otus XROU-25 was an enjoyable experience. Its innovative design, featuring a two-part body and interchangeable curly tail, provided an enticing, life-like action that was irresistible to fish. The lure’s quality construction was evident, and the sharp, durable VMC hook provided reliable performance.
However, the size of the lure might be daunting for some, especially those who aren’t used to fishing for larger species. Also, the price of the X-Rap Otus is somewhat higher than other lures, which could be a deciding factor for some anglers.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Rapala X-Rap Otus XROU-25 is a superb lure. Its innovative design, quality construction, and effectiveness in attracting larger predatory fish make it a worthwhile addition to any angler’s tackle box.
Mepp’s Musky Killer
Specs:
- Extra heavy-duty super sharp premium 5/0 hook
- 1/2-ounce brass weight
Why we picked it:
The Mepp’s Musky Killer has been around for quite some time, and it’s easy to see why. I recently had the chance to give it a go, and here’s my take on this classic lure.
Product Specs & Key Features:
The Mepp’s Musky Killer is a spinner lure that measures 1.5 ounces with a number 5 blade. This lure is known for its vibrant bucktail colors and high-vibration blade, which is excellent for attracting predatory fish. The particular model I tried had a hot white-white color pattern.
Use Cases:
The Mepp’s Musky Killer is designed for catching larger predatory fish such as muskie, pike, and big bass. It’s versatile and effective in both clear and murky waters.
Pros:
- Effective Design: The Musky Killer‘s vibrant bucktail and high-vibration blade are highly attractive to fish.
- Quality Hooks: The lure comes with durable, sharp hooks that improve hook-up ratios.
- Versatile: This lure can be used in a variety of fishing conditions and is effective for several species.
- Easy to Use: Even for beginners, this lure is straightforward to cast and retrieve.
Cons:
- Size: While ideal for larger fish, the size of this lure may not be suitable for targeting smaller species.
- Price: Some might find the Musky Killer a bit pricey compared to other spinner lures on the market.
Personal Experience:
I was delighted with my experience using Mepp’s Musky Killer. The vibrant bucktail and high-vibration blade did an excellent job attracting fish, and the hooks were reliably sharp and durable. I appreciated the versatility of this lure—it was effective in both clear and murky waters and attracted several different species.
However, the lure’s size might limit its effectiveness if you’re targeting smaller species. Also, while the price is justified by the lure’s quality and effectiveness, it might be a bit high for some anglers’ budgets.
Despite these minor considerations, I found Mepp’s Musky Killer to be a fantastic lure. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, this lure is a worthy addition to your tackle box.
Savage Gear 3D Topwater Duck
Specs:
- Spinning feet
- Rigged with both top and bottom hook configuration
- Available in two sizes: 10.5 cm and 15 cm
- 3 fish-catching colors
- Extreme topwater action
Why we picked it:
When I first saw the Savage Gear 3D Topwater Duck, I was intrigued by its unique design. After trying it out, I’m excited to share my thoughts on this one-of-a-kind lure.
Product Specs & Key Features:
The Savage Gear 3D Topwater Duck is a 4-inch, 1-ounce topwater lure that mimics a duckling. It features a realistic 3D design and lifelike swimming action. This lure comes in several color options, but the one I tested was the Yellow Duckling version.
Use Cases:
This lure is designed to target larger predatory fish, such as pike, muskie, and bass. It is especially effective in areas with ducks or other waterfowl, as it taps into the predatory instincts of these fish species.
Pros:
- Innovative Design: The 3D design and realistic swimming action make the Topwater Duck highly attractive to fish.
- Versatile: This lure can be used in various water conditions and is suitable for catching several species.
- Durable Construction: The Topwater Duck is built with high-quality materials, ensuring it can withstand aggressive strikes from large fish.
- Easy to Use: Despite its unique appearance, this lure is straightforward to cast and retrieve.
Cons:
- Price: The Savage Gear 3D Topwater Duck is on the pricier side compared to other topwater lures.
- Targeted Use: While highly effective for specific species, this lure may not be as versatile as other options when targeting a wider range of fish.
Personal Experience:
Using the Savage Gear 3D Topwater Duck was an exciting experience. The lifelike design and swimming action attracted some massive pike, and the lure’s durability withstood their powerful strikes. I found the lure easy to cast and retrieve, and it performed well in various water conditions.
The price may be a bit high for some anglers, and the targeted nature of this lure may limit its appeal. However, if you’re looking for a highly effective lure for pike or other predatory species in areas with waterfowl, the Savage Gear 3D Topwater Duck is an excellent choice. It’s an innovative and fun addition to any angler’s tackle box.
Trolling for Pike
Trolling for pike is a popular and effective way to target these predatory fish. To be successful, it’s important to know the types of lures used for trolling as well as techniques for controlling boat speed and depth. Let’s take a look at some of the best lures and techniques you can use when trolling for pike.
When trolling, wobblers are one of the most common lures used by anglers targeting pike. These baits have an erratic swimming action that mimics small baitfish or frogs–two favorite prey items of pike. Plugs are also very popular with trollers because they can easily cover large areas in search of feeding fish without having to continually re-bait your line after every cast. Finally, jigs are great options when fishing around weeds, rocks, or structures where larger predators like northern pike may be lurking below the surface, waiting to ambush their prey.
In addition to selecting the right lure, it’s important to understand how to control your boat speed and depth while trolling so you don’t miss out on any potential strikes from hungry predators hiding in deeper waters or near structures like docks or weed beds. A slow troll speed between 1-2 mph is ideal for covering water quickly while still allowing your lure plenty of time in each spot before moving on down the shoreline or across a lake bed if necessary. You should also consider using downriggers or planer boards when trolling deep waters so you can get your bait into those hard-to-reach places where bigger fish tend to hide out during certain times of day or year depending on seasonal patterns such as spawning season runs etc. Additionally, working along weed lines, rocky points/shoals, submerged logs/stumps, etc., will often help increase strike rates due to increased chances of intercepting passing schools/packs/pods of active feeders patrolling these areas looking for meals.
Trolling for pike can be an effective way to catch these aggressive fish, and with the right lures, it’s even more successful. So, let’s investigate what kind of lures are the most effective for catching pike.
Key Takeaway: Trolling for pike is a popular and effective technique; anglers should choose the right lures, such as wobblers, plugs, and jigs. Additionally, it’s important to adjust boat speed-depth using downriggers or planer boards.
Best Trolling Lures for Pike
Savage Gear 4D Line Thru Pike – Sinking Lure
Specs:
- 4D Photo Chrome Skin Print
- Rattle slot in Paddletail
- Slow sink
- Easy change Line thru system
Why we picked it:
When it comes to realism and effectiveness, the Savage Gear 4D Line Thru Pike sinking lure has truly exceeded my expectations. Here’s my in-depth review after using this spectacular lure.
Product Specs & Key Features:
The Savage Gear 4D Line Thru Pike is a 12 1/2 inch, 7-ounce sinking lure that’s been designed to replicate a pike, one of the most prevalent freshwater game fish. The lure comes in a variety of color options. I tested the Striped Pike variant, which provided a highly realistic look.
Use Cases:
This lure is perfect for targeting larger predatory fish like pike, musky, and bass. Due to its sinking nature, it’s especially useful for deep water fishing or when the fish are holding in the deeper parts of the water column.
Pros:
- Highly Realistic: The 4D photo print finish and lifelike swimming action make this lure extremely enticing to predatory fish.
- Line Thru Design: This feature allows the lure to slide up the line when a fish is hooked, reducing the chances of the fish using the lure to throw the hook.
- Durability: The lure is built to last and withstand aggressive strikes from large fish.
- Attracts Big Fish: Its size and realistic design make it ideal for targeting larger fish.
Cons:
- Size: Due to its larger size, casting this lure might require a bit more effort and a heavier rod setup.
- Price: The Savage Gear 4D Line Thru Pike is quite pricey compared to some other lures.
Personal Experience:
From the moment I first used the Savage Gear 4D Line Thru Pike, I was impressed. The lifelike design drew the attention of large pike in the area, and the line-thru design greatly improved my hook-up rates. Its size and realistic swimming action really do make a difference in enticing those bigger, more cautious fish.
While the price and size might be a bit daunting, the results speak for themselves. This lure has earned a permanent spot in my tackle box. For any angler looking to target larger fish, especially in deeper waters, I’d highly recommend giving the Savage Gear 4D Line Thru Pike a try. It might just land you the catch of a lifetime!
Creek Chub Jointed
Specs:
- Quality treble hooks with stainless steel hardware
- Casting depth: 1,2 – 2,1 m
- Trolling depth: up to 4 m
- Weight: 49 g
- Length: 15 cm
Why we picked it:
Over my years of fishing, I’ve tried countless lures, but the Creek Chub Jointed Pikie is one that consistently produces results, especially when I’m targeting larger species. Here’s my in-depth review of this classic lure.
Product Specs & Key Features:
The Creek Chub Jointed Pikie is a 6-inch, 1 3/4-ounce lure designed to catch big freshwater fish like bass, pike, musky, and striper. It comes in a variety of colors, but for this review, I used the Pikie variant.
Use Cases:
This lure is perfect for trolling or casting in both fresh and saltwater environments. It’s particularly effective in attracting large, predatory species due to its lifelike swimming action.
Pros:
- Jointed Design: The jointed body provides a realistic swimming action that mimics injured baitfish, which is hard for predatory fish to resist.
- Durable Construction: The Pikie is made of high-quality, tough materials that can withstand aggressive strikes from big fish.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of fishing scenarios, from casting in rivers to trolling in larger bodies of water.
Cons:
- Price: The Creek Chub Jointed Pikie is on the higher end price-wise when compared to similar lures.
- Hooks Could Be Better: While the hooks are decent, they could be sharper out of the box.
Personal Experience:
The Creek Chub Jointed Pikie has a special place in my tackle box and for a good reason. Its unique jointed design and lifelike swimming action have consistently attracted big fish. I’ve had particular success with this lure while trolling for pike. The durability of the Pikie is commendable—it has withstood countless strong strikes and is still going strong. However, I would recommend replacing the hooks with sharper ones for better hookups.
In conclusion, while the Creek Chub Jointed Pikie may be a bit pricier than some other lures on the market, its effectiveness and durability make it worth the investment. I highly recommend it to any angler who’s after big fish.
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures Multi Jointed Swimbaits Slow Sinking
Specs:
- Length: 5.4in/13.7cm.
- Weight: 0.9oz/25g.
- Swimming Depth: 6 ft-8 ft.
- Material: Hard ABS Plastic, Metal, Steel Wire, 3D Eyes, Rattle, Hooks.
Why we picked it:
Throughout my fishing adventures, I’ve come across many lures, but few can match the performance of the TRUSCEND Fishing Lures. This multi-jointed swimbait has transformed my fishing expeditions, especially when targeting pike and musky.
Product Specs & Key Features:
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures are multi-jointed swimbaits designed to provide a slow-sinking, bionic swimming action. They come in a pack that includes three different designs, each with realistic 3D eyes and lifelike skin. They are versatile, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Use Cases:
These lures are perfect for fishing bass and trout, but they can also attract a variety of other fish species. Their slow-sinking nature makes them ideal for different depths and fishing conditions.
Pros:
- Lifelike Appearance: The realistic design and movement of these lures are second to none. This greatly increases the chance of attracting fish.
- Multi-Jointed Body: The segmented body allows for a fluid, natural swimming action.
- Versatility: They are suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making them a versatile addition to any tackle box.
Cons:
- Durability: While generally well-made, the joints can wear out over time, particularly with heavy use.
- Sinking Speed: I’ve found these lures to sink slower than expected. This could limit their effectiveness in certain fishing conditions like deeper body of waters. But particularly in rivers, I really like their action – they look incredibly real.
Personal Experience:
I’ve had a great experience with the TRUSCEND Fishing Lures. The lifelike design and movement are definitely the highlights, often fooling fish into biting. They’re particularly effective when fishing in clear water, where fish can fully appreciate their realistic appearance.
The durability is decent, although I’ve noticed some wear and tear on the joints after a few heavy fishing sessions. Also, the slow-sinking speed is something to consider based on your fishing style and target depth.
All in all, TRUSCEND Fishing Lures offer great value for their price. They’ve definitely earned their place in my tackle box, and I’d recommend them to any angler looking to enhance their fishing experience. Tight lines!
Where to Find the Best Pike Lures
Tracking down the best lures for pike fishing can be tricky, but with the right guidance and resources, you can find some great equipment. Whether you’re looking online or in local tackle shops, there are plenty of great options to choose from.
When shopping online for pike lures, it pays to compare prices between different retailers. Take advantage of discounts and free shipping deals when buying in bulk, and read customer reviews for insight into the best lures. You’ll also want to read customer reviews before making any purchases; this will give you an idea of what other anglers think about certain products and brands. Additionally, many online retailers have detailed product descriptions that include information about size, weight and materials used, which can help narrow down your search for the perfect lure.
Local tackle shops are another great source for finding quality pike lures at competitive prices. Most store owners have extensive knowledge about fishing techniques and equipment, so they can provide helpful advice when selecting gear specific to your needs or location. Tackle shop employees may even be able to suggest their own favorite baits that work particularly well in certain areas or conditions—something you won’t find by shopping online. Plus, buying locally allows you to inspect items up close before purchasing them; this way, you know exactly what type of lure is going into your tackle box before heading out onto the water.
Whether searching for new lures online or visiting a local shop near you, taking the time to research different types of bait is key when trying to catch more pike on each outing. To maximize your chances of success, having the correct equipment and understanding appropriate techniques is essential.
Key Takeaway: Doing your research is key when it comes to finding the best pike lures, whether you’re shopping online or in a local tackle shop. By comparing prices and reading customer reviews, as well as taking advantage of discounts for bulk orders and free shipping offers where available, you can get hooked up with top-notch gear that’ll help maximize success on the water.
FAQs: Best Lures for Pike
What is the number one lure for pike?
The number one lure for pike is the jerkbait. Jerkbait lures are designed to imitate a struggling baitfish, and they have proven effective in catching large predatory fish like pike. These lures can be fished with either a steady retrieve or with jerking motions that make them look alive in the water. Jerkbaits come in an array of sizes, hues, and forms, so fishers can select the ideal option for their requirements and angling environment. With proper technique and presentation, these versatile lures will help you catch more pike.
What are the best baits for catching pike?
Pike are a predatory fish that feed on smaller fish, so the best baits for catching them should mimic their natural prey. Small minnows and shad work well, as do spoons, spinners, and crankbaits in silver or gold colors. Live bait, such as nightcrawlers, can also be effective when used with a slow retrieve. Other good choices include small jigs tipped with soft plastics like grubs or worms. When fishing for pike, remember to use heavier tackle than you would normally employ due to their size and strength.
What color of lures work best for pike?
Pike are attracted to flashy lures, so bright colors like chartreuse and hot pink tend to work best. Silver or gold blades can also be effective for pike, as the reflective light is attractive to them. It’s important not to use too many different colors at once, though; a single lure with one or two contrasting colors will often do the trick. Experimenting with different combinations of color and blade size can help you find what works best in your local waters.
What do northern pike like for lures?
Northern pike are predatory fish that prefer live bait such as minnows, shiners, suckers, and smelt. They also respond well to artificial lures such as spoons, spinners, crankbaits, and jerk baits. For best results when using artificial lures, it is important to vary the size of the lure in order to mimic a variety of prey sizes. It is also important to experiment with different colors and retrieve speeds until you find what works for your particular situation.
Conclusion
Fishing for pike can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With the right lures, you can catch a variety of sizes and colors of this powerful fish. Whether you choose to cast or troll, make sure that your tackle box is stocked with the best pike lures on the market so that your next fishing trip will be filled with success.
Come explore the world of pike fishing with us! We offer comprehensive guides on tackle, lures, techniques, and more to help you become an expert in pike fishing.
