Trolling for Pike
Complete guide — gear, lures, season and tips.
Gear
- Rod
- Trolling rod 2.4–2.7 m, medium/heavy action
- Reel
- Line-counter multiplier reel (Okuma Cold Water, Shimano Tekota)
- Mainline
- Braid 0.30 mm or mono 0.40 mm
- Leader
- Wire leader 50 lb or fluorocarbon 1.0 mm, 80–120 cm
- Hook
- Stock hooks on the lure
Abu Garcia Devil Trolling
Okuma Classic Pro GLT
Shimano Talora
Lures / bait
- Large crankbaits/jerkbaits 15–25 cm (Rapala Super Shad Rap, Westin Hypoteez, Strike Pro EG-079)
- Spoons 30–60 g
- Large soft-plastic shads with a swimming action
Season
May–November
Time of day
All day
Pro tip
Troll at 2.5–4 knots, vary depth 2–8 m with planer boards or a paravane. Follow reefs and drop-offs. Effective for locating trophy pike in unfamiliar water.