Northern Pike

Looking to hook into some Northern Pike near Bridgman, Michigan? Your primary target should be the Galien River and its connected waterways. This river system, while relatively small, offers surprisingly good pike habitat, especially in the slower-moving sections with plenty of vegetation. Spring is the peak season, with pike moving into the shallows to spawn. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and swimbaits are all effective lure choices. Don't overlook the potential of using a large sucker minnow under a bobber, especially in the early spring. A local tip: the Galien River can be quite turbid at times, particularly after rainfall, so using lures with plenty of vibration and flash is crucial. Also, be aware that the river can be difficult to navigate in some sections, so a kayak or small boat is recommended. The pike here aren't generally huge, but they're aggressive and provide plenty of action.