Northern Pike

Alpha, Michigan, provides a great base for targeting Northern Pike in the Upper Peninsula's freshwater systems. The area lakes, such as Iron Lake and nearby smaller bodies of water, offer excellent pike habitat with plenty of weed beds and submerged timber. Spring, right after ice-out, is a particularly productive time as the pike move into shallower water to spawn. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and jerkbaits are your best bet for enticing strikes. For bank access, try the public access points on the east side of Iron Lake. If you're bringing a boat, the public launch offers easy access. Remember, the pike in this region can be quite large, often exceeding 40 inches, so be sure your gear is up to the task. Also, check the local regulations regarding size and possession limits, as they can differ from the statewide rules.