Northern Pike

If you're hoping to tangle with Northern Pike near Barrington Hills, Illinois, you'll want to concentrate your efforts on the Fox River and its associated chain of lakes. While not right in Barrington Hills, it's a short drive. The Fox Chain O' Lakes provides excellent pike habitat, with plenty of weedy bays, channels, and shallow flats. Spring, just after ice-out, and fall, as the water cools, are the most productive times. Pike are ambush predators, so focus on areas with submerged vegetation, docks, and fallen trees. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits are all effective lures. Don't forget a wire leader to prevent bite-offs! Be aware of the heavy recreational boating traffic on the Chain during the summer months, and plan your trips accordingly. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website provides information on boat ramps and fishing regulations for the Fox Chain.