Northern Pike

While not a traditional pike hotspot, Carbondale, Illinois, offers a few opportunities for anglers willing to put in the time. Lake of Egypt, with its abundant forage and diverse structure, is your best bet for connecting with northern pike in this region. Early spring, right after ice-out (if any), and late fall, as water temperatures drop, are prime times to target pike. Look for them in weedy bays, near creek channels, and around submerged timber. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits are effective lures. Don't be afraid to use large live or dead bait as well. A local tip: Lake of Egypt can get very windy, so be prepared for challenging conditions. Also, be sure to use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs, as pike have sharp teeth. Pike fishing here requires patience and persistence, but the reward of landing one of these toothy predators can be well worth the effort. The pike in Lake of Egypt tend to be ambush predators, so focus on areas with plenty of cover.