Northern Pike

Targeting Northern Pike near West Brooklyn, Illinois requires a bit of exploration, as they aren't as common as other species. Your best bet is to focus on larger bodies of water and connecting sloughs or backwaters that might hold these ambush predators. Spring, just after ice-out, is an exceptional time to find pike as they move into shallow, weedy areas to spawn. Fall, as water temperatures cool, is another productive period when pike are actively feeding. Look for areas with submerged vegetation, points, and drop-offs. A local tip: the Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, though a bit of a drive, offers some pike opportunities in its various pools and waterways. Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and swimbaits are all effective lures. Be sure to use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs, as pike have razor-sharp teeth! The pike in this region tend to be on the smaller side, but a lucky angler might find a real trophy.