Northern Pike

If you're looking to tangle with Northern Pike near Olympia Fields, Illinois, focus your efforts on the forest preserve lakes and sloughs scattered throughout the area. These smaller, often overlooked bodies of water can hold surprisingly large pike. Spring, just after ice-out, and fall, as water temperatures cool, are prime times. During these periods, pike are actively feeding in preparation for spawning or winter. A practical tip: many of these lakes are accessible only by foot, so pack light and be prepared for a bit of a hike. Also, pay close attention to local regulations regarding lure restrictions or size limits, as they can vary from lake to lake. The pike in these waters tend to be ambush predators, so focus your casts around weed edges, fallen timber, and any other structure that provides cover. Don't be afraid to use large, flashy lures or live bait to entice a strike.