Northern Pike

Targeting Northern Pike near Frankfort, Illinois, requires a bit of a trek but can be rewarding. While not as abundant as other species, pike are present in some of the larger bodies of water within an hour's drive. The Kankakee River, south of Frankfort, is a known pike habitat. Focus your efforts in areas with slow-moving water, weed beds, and submerged timber. Spring, just after ice-out, is an excellent time to target them as they move into shallower water to spawn. Early fall can also be productive as they feed heavily before winter. When fishing the Kankakee, be aware of the current and potential snags. Using a steel leader is essential, as pike have sharp teeth. Local tip: larger spinnerbaits or crankbaits retrieved at a moderate pace can be very effective. Pike in this region tend to be ambush predators, so target areas where they can easily hide and strike.