Fishing Charters in Missouri
Browse fishing charters in Missouri that can help you catch northern pike.
Loz Guide Service
Kaiser, Missouri
Proffesional Fishing Guide Services
Marshall, Missouri
Out The Mud Catfishing
St. Louis, Missouri
Hawg Stump Guide Services
Dodson Guide Service
Come experience fishing in Missouri with Dodson Guide Service. Our expert fishing guide will provide a great time on the water and help you catch the big one!
Bransons Reel Fishing
Greenough Fishing Guide Service
Maloneys Fishing Guide Service
Your Trip Begins Here With Maloney's Fishing Guide Service, your fishing experience exceeds all expectations. Book Your Trip Today Take a Trip With Captain Parker Being native to the Ozarks, Captain Parker turned his passion for the lakes into his livelihood. Parker is the second generation to be raised on Table Rock Lake and Lake…
Branson Fish Tales
Welcome - YOUR Fishing Guide Branson MO - We Wanna Take YOU Fishin' Professional Commercially Insured and Licensed by the US Coast Guard.
Lake Ozark Fishing Guide Service
Ozark Trout Runners
Hooked On Branson Fishing Guide Service
We're Branson's premier fishing charter and offer fishing trips on Table Rock Lake, Lake Taneycomo and Bull Shoals Lake. Book your trip today!
Best Time to Catch Northern Pike
Northern Pike can be caught year-round in Columbia. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Northern Pike
Targeting Northern Pike near Columbia, Missouri, requires understanding the seasonal movements of their prey. Focus your efforts in and around the many smaller lakes and reservoirs that dot the landscape surrounding the city. Pike fishing really heats up in the spring as they move into shallower waters to spawn. Look for weedy areas and submerged timber; these are prime ambush points. As the water warms in summer, pike will retreat to deeper, cooler areas, often near creek channels or submerged structure. Fall is another excellent time as they aggressively feed before winter. A key tip: the boat ramp at Finger Lakes State Park gives you access to diverse pike habitat. Pay attention to water clarity; if it's murky, use brighter, louder lures.
How to Catch Northern Pike
Northern Pike Fishing Regulations in Missouri
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per day
Size Limit
24-inch minimum
License Required
Fishing permit
Only one pike may be longer than 30 inches. Check specific area regulations for exceptions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Missouri state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Missouri
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the daily limit and size requirement for Northern Pike in Missouri?
You can keep up to 3 Northern Pike per day, but each one must be at least 24 inches long.
What's the best time of year to target Northern Pike near Columbia, MO?
Spring and fall are usually the best times to fish for Northern Pike. They are more active in cooler water temperatures.
What kind of bait should I use for Northern Pike in the Columbia area?
Large spoons, spinners, crankbaits, and swimbaits are all effective lures for Northern Pike. Live bait like shiners can also work well.
Do I need a specific permit to fish for Northern Pike in Missouri?
You just need a standard Missouri fishing permit to fish for Northern Pike. There's no species-specific permit required.
More Northern Pike Fishing in Missouri
Other Species to Fish in Columbia
Ready to Catch Northern Pike in Columbia?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.