Northern Pike

While Leonard isn't known for trophy pike, the smaller lakes and connected waterways around the area hold populations of these ambush predators. Focus your efforts on areas with dense weed growth, especially in the spring as the ice melts and pike move into shallow bays to spawn. Fall is another great time as they feed aggressively before winter. Try using large spinnerbaits, swimbaits, or jerkbaits retrieved quickly near weed edges. Live bait, such as large shiners or suckers, fished under a bobber can also be productive. Access can be limited in some of these smaller lakes, so scout out public access points or consider using a kayak or canoe to reach secluded areas. Be sure to use a steel leader to prevent bite-offs, as pike have sharp teeth.