Northern Pike

Northern Pike fishing near La Moille, Illinois, focuses on the Illinois River and its associated backwaters and sloughs. While not a trophy pike destination, these waters hold decent populations of pike that provide exciting action. Spring is undoubtedly the best time to target them, as the pike move into shallower areas to spawn. Look for weedy bays and flooded vegetation. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and large spoons are effective lures. As the water warms in summer, pike tend to retreat to deeper, cooler areas, making them more challenging to locate. Fall can also be productive as they feed heavily before winter. A local tip: The Hennepin Canal, a short drive from La Moille, can hold pike, especially in areas with submerged vegetation and current breaks. Be prepared for some submerged timber and weeds in many of these locations.