Northern Pike

Don't count out the Concord, Michigan vicinity for Northern Pike! Though perhaps not the first species that comes to mind, some of the weedy lakes and connecting channels harbor a healthy population of these ambush predators. The key to success here is understanding their habitat preferences and seasonal movements. Early spring, immediately after ice-out, finds pike congregating in shallow, weedy bays to spawn. This is a prime time to target them with large spinnerbaits, spoons, or even dead bait. As the water warms, pike will move to deeper water, often relating to weedlines and submerged structure. A helpful local tip is to focus your efforts on lakes with a good population of panfish. Pike are opportunistic feeders and will often be found near schools of bluegill or crappie. Another tip is to be prepared to fish through thick vegetation. Pike are masters of camouflage and will often lie in wait in the thickest cover. Use weedless lures or techniques like fishing a frog or a weedless swimbait on top of the vegetation. The pike around Concord might not be trophy-sized, but they offer a challenging and rewarding fishing experience.