Tips for Catching Trophies

Here are my simple rules for catching Northern Pike:

1. Medium heavy to heavy rod.
2. At least 10-12 lb line, if not more.
3. At least 30 lb + steel leader. About 1 foot long.
4. Lures that you can retrieve quickly and that create excitement.
5. Location- back bays early in the year, weedbeds later in the year.
6. Be creative- rule 5 is not always true.
7. A good landing net or cradle, if you prefer to do less harm to the fish.
8. Patience- while Pike fishing can be quick, you must always assume otherwise.
9. Enjoy yourself and relax.
10. And finally.. a camera to take a picture of your trophy!