Watch the above trophy pike video, where Jeremy Smith and Mike Hehner experiment with a host of high-probability pike presentations, each angler searching for a new personal best. To find them, the duo merges old and new school tactics, and they use their eyes and electronics to cover water and catch monster fish on a trip of a lifetime.
Trophy pike are fascinating creatures. Like sea monsters of the deep—only real—they push anglers to extreme destinations and tactics in search of the once-in-a-lifetime catch.
Once pike reaches the 40- to 50-inch pike class, their habitat, diet, and overall attitude are completely different than smaller pike. Big toothy critters patrol grounds or hold court on a structure — like kings of the hill, rulers of the roost —where the best food is most easily attained. 
On the presentation side, each season and situation calls for a different play. Deadbait, live bait, giant plastics, deep-diving crankbaits, and weedless lure options all get used by serious pike-heads.
Although the pursuit of trophy pike can at times be a grind, the payoff is worth every minute.
Here we will be discussing trophy pike fishing and the gear needed for a successful trip. Trophy pike fishing can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience, and it requires the right equipment to maximize your chances of success. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this article will provide you with valuable information on the gear needed for trophy pike fishing.
The Excitement of Trophy Pike Fishing
Trophy pike fishing is an exhilarating experience that offers anglers the opportunity to catch large, aggressive fish. Pike are known for their aggressive nature and their willingness to strike at a variety of baits. In this video, the anglers are using a variety of baits, including hard baits, spoons, spinners, and plastics, to target trophy pike.
The anglers in the video are using a combination of hard baits, spoons, spinners, and plastics to target trophy pike. The versatility of these baits allows them to cover a lot of water quickly and effectively. The spoons, in particular, are a mainstay for pike fishing in Canada due to their flash and vibration. They have likely caught more pike and trout than any other lure.
The Importance of Soft Plastics and Jerk Baits
When it comes to trophy pike fishing, soft plastics and jerk baits are two of the most effective presentations. These baits allow anglers to pause and give direction changes, which can be highly enticing to pike. The big bite baits five and six-inch shad is a cheap and awesome option for soft plastics. It provides a profile and hang time that can trigger strikes from pike. Another great option is the big bite salt tube, which is a six-inch bait that has proven to be successful.
The Right Hooks and Leaders
Having the right hooks and leaders is crucial for trophy pike fishing. The VMC heavy-duty weighted swim bait hooks in six or seven hot sizes are highly recommended. These hooks provide the necessary strength and durability to handle big pike. It is also important to have a good hook file and scissors for any necessary adjustments or repairs.
The Key to Success: Hang Time
One of the key factors in triggering pike strikes is hang time. Baits that move too fast often don’t elicit as many strikes as baits that can hang in front of the fish’s face. This allows the angler to trick the fish into biting and gives them a second chance if they miss the first time. The anglers in the video emphasize the importance of hang time and how it can lead to more successful hookups.
Other Essential Gear
In addition to the baits and hooks, there are a few other items that are essential for trophy pike fishing. These include snaps, swivels, titanium or wire leaders, and tools such as a jaws spreader, needle-nose pliers, hook cutter s, and a landing net. Snaps and swivels are important for quickly changing out baits and preventing line twist. Titanium or wire leaders are necessary to prevent pike from biting through the line. Tools such as a jaws spreader, needle-nose pliers, and hook cutters are essential for safely handling and releasing pike.
The Best Time for Trophy Pike Fishing
The best time for trophy pike fishing is typically early in the season when the water is still cold. Pike are cool water species and prefer water temperatures between 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. They are less active in warmer water, so targeting them in cooler temperatures increases your chances of success. In the video, the anglers mention that pike won’t be found in water over 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Conclusion
Trophy pike fishing is an exciting and rewarding experience that requires the right gear and techniques. Soft plastics and jerk baits are highly effective presentations for triggering pike strikes. Having the right hooks, leaders, and tools is crucial for handling and releasing trophy pike. Targeting pike in cooler water temperatures increases your chances of success. So, if you’re looking for an exhilarating fishing adventure, consider trophy pike fishing and make sure to come prepared with the right gear.
Gangler’s Lodge offers access to countless monster-filled glasses of water – where fish pushing 50 inches are possible—on both conventional tackle and on the fly.
