Northern Pike

If you're looking to tangle with Northern Pike near Ithaca, Michigan, you're in luck. The many smaller lakes and connecting waterways in Gratiot County offer surprisingly good pike fishing. While not known for trophy-sized fish, the sheer number of aggressive, mid-sized pike makes for an action-packed day. Focus your efforts on areas with dense weed growth, especially lily pads and submerged vegetation in shallow bays. Spring, right after the ice melts, and fall, when the water cools, are prime times. Pike are aggressive in these cooler temperatures, actively feeding to spawn or fatten up for winter. Try fishing with large spinnerbaits, spoons, or even live bait like shiners. A local tip: the Maple River, while shallower, can hold some surprisingly large pike, especially near downed timber. Be prepared to navigate some weedy conditions, and consider using a weedless presentation to avoid snags. Public access is available at several points along the Maple River and at boat launches on larger lakes like Crystal Lake.