Northern Pike

Parchment, Michigan, might not be the first place that comes to mind for trophy pike, but the Kalamazoo River and nearby lakes hold some surprisingly large specimens. The river, with its slow-moving sections and abundant weed beds, provides excellent habitat. Focus your efforts around bridge pilings, submerged timber, and weed lines. Spring and fall are generally the best times to target pike here. As the water cools, they become more active and aggressive. For river access, consider launching a kayak or canoe from one of the public access points along the Kalamazoo. A local tip: don't be afraid to throw large lures. Pike in this area are often ambush predators and are attracted to big, flashy presentations. Spoons, spinnerbaits, and large swimbaits can all be effective. Be sure to use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs, as these pike have sharp teeth!