Northern Pike

If you're targeting Northern Pike in the Custer, Michigan area, you'll find some rewarding action in the Pere Marquette River and surrounding inland lakes. The "PM," as locals call it, offers plenty of submerged structure and weed beds that pike love to ambush prey from. Spring and early summer are prime times, just after the spawn, when pike are actively feeding. Fall is also excellent as they bulk up for the winter. Try casting large spinnerbaits, spoons, or crankbaits near weed lines and submerged logs. For a real thrill, use large swimbaits or even try fly fishing with streamers. A local tactic is to focus on areas where the river widens or has slower-moving water. Be aware that the Pere Marquette is a popular trout stream, so practice catch-and-release for any trout you encounter. Access to the river is available at several road crossings and designated access sites, but be mindful of private property.