Saskatchewan pike fishing is well known for growing monster fish and trophy northern pike are a sought after fish for most travelers.
Located in Northern Saskatchewan, Lawrence Bay Lodge on Reindeer Lake offers some of the best trophy northern pike fishing in Saskatchewan. And at approximately 180 miles long — and in some places 60 miles wide — it’s considered one of the top northern pike lakes in the world.
Thousands of islands and miles of shoreline create a seemingly endless number of bays where giant northern pike reside. Because the lake is so far north, with an average depth of around 100 feet, the water stays cool and big pike remains relatively shallow all season long.
Pike have many great qualities, but one of our favorites they are very often in an aggressive mood willing to bite just about anything that passes in front of them. Many of the lures we pack on these trip are tools to target pike based on the habitat they are using.
An all-around big fish producer is the size 12 X-Rap, it’s erratic and suspends. When they are diggin’ a jerkbait bite, you’d be hard pressed to find a better option. Glide baits are another great option when pike prefer erratic presentations is the Twitchin’ Rap.
If the pike happen to be scattered or you need to cover a lot of water, be sure to bring some Size 7 Rippin’ Raps, spinners and spoons.
Pike will bite all the options listed above and more yet plastic are one of the best options because of their versatility. Plastics can be rigged Texaposed and weightless for targeting pike in shallow heavy cover or fished on heavy jigs to target them on deep structures.
We always pack five to seven-inch swimbaits, minnow profiles and tubes on these trips. To rig them we’ll have both the Heavy Duty and HD Weighted Willow Swimbait Hooks from 6/0 up to 11/0 depending on the size of the plastic. For jigs we have the VMC Boxer and Flat Shad Jigs from 3/8 to 1oz. On this trip, like many in late summer and early fall, many of the pike were using deeper weeds. The combo of a 1/2oz Flat Shad Jig with a 6” Big Bite Tube is simply magical. This presentation slithers through cabbage beds and is so simple to fish. It’s become our go-to rig for big pike of the north.
There are countless ways to do it when it comes to fishing for northern pike. Whether it’s trolling, casting, or using live bait, the key is to have control over your style of fishing. From the very beginning, it’s important to be able to adapt to the water and the conditions you’re facing.
Saskatchewan Pike Fishing: Loaded for Bear
As we set out on our fishing expedition, we make sure to come prepared. With a wide range of fishing gear and equipment at our disposal, we are ready to take on any challenge that comes our way. From dependable rods and reels to the best lures on the market, we have everything we need to make the most of our fishing trip.
Saskatchewan Pike Fishing Double Trouble
As we cast our lines into the water, we quickly realize that we are in for a treat. The northern pike are biting, and they are biting hard. We find ourselves reeling in one fish after another, experiencing the thrill of the fight and the satisfaction of a successful catch. It’s a double whammy of excitement and adrenaline as we bring in two pike at once. The feeling is unbelievable.
Tools of the Trade
To safely handle these toothy critters, we rely on a few essential tools. Fish grippers are a must-have, allowing us to keep our hands away from the fish and avoid any accidental injuries. We also carry a hook extractor, which allows us to remove hooks from the fish’s mouth without getting too close. And of course, a pair of pliers and bolt cutters are essential for both handling the fish and dealing with any unexpected situations.
Navigating the Waters
When fishing in a vast body of water like this, it’s crucial to have the right tools for navigation. We rely on a GPS system, specifically the Humminbird Solix units, to safely navigate the waters and find the best fishing spots. The auto chart live feature has been a game-changer, helping us map out the spots and increase our chances of success.
Catching Big Fish
As we continue our fishing adventure, we are amazed by the sheer number of fish we encounter. The concentration of big fish in these spots is mind-blowing. We find ourselves catching one after another, with each fish more impressive than the last. From walleye to crappie to pike, our Daiwa Dragon lures prove to be the key to success. And the trusty X-Rap lure never fails to deliver, catching everything that comes its way.
Tackling the Challenges
Fishing in the far north comes with its fair share of challenges. The weather can be unpredictable, with Bluebird flat calm days and rough waters. But that doesn’t deter us from our mission to catch big fish. We adapt our fishing techniques and gear to the conditions, ensuring that we are always prepared for whatever comes our way.
The Right Gear for the Job
When it comes to fishing for big pike, having the right gear is essential. We opt for braided line, specifically 40-pound Sufix 131 or 832, to handle the powerful strikes and aggressive fights of these fish. And to protect against their sharp teeth, we use a short shank of wire as a leader. Our go-to reel for this type of fishing is the Daiwa Tatula 300, with its low profile, large line capacity, and smooth drag. It’s the perfect tool for battling big pike.
The Joy of Catching
As we reel in one pike after another, the excitement and joy are palpable. The thrill of the fight, the anticipation of seeing the fish surface, and the satisfaction of a successful catch make every moment on the water worthwhile. We can’t help but feel like the greatest fishermen in the world as we continue to land these impressive fish.
A Game-Changing Technology
One of the key factors that contribute to our success on this trip is the technology we have at our disposal. The trolling motor, equipped with spot lock, allows us to stay in one spot and fish effectively. This feature has been a game-changer, enabling us to catch fish after fish without having to constantly reposition the boat. It’s a true testament to the advancements in fishing technology and how it can enhance our fishing experience.
In Conclusion
As the fishing trip comes to an end, the narrator expresses their gratitude for the opportunity to embark on this adventure. They extend a heartfelt thank you to Phil Lawrence Bay Lodge for making their dream of fishing in the far north a reality. The fishing experience has been nothing short of world-class, with non-stop action and unforgettable memories.
