Northern Pike

While not widely known as a pike destination, De Witt, Missouri, and the surrounding area do offer some limited opportunities for Northern Pike, primarily in the Grand River and its connected sloughs and backwaters. The best time to target them is during the cooler months, specifically early spring (March-April) as they move shallow to spawn, and again in the fall (October-November) when they're bulking up for winter. Pike in this region are not as abundant or large as in more northern climates, but persistent anglers can still find success. Focus on areas with plenty of cover, such as submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and undercut banks. A key to success is understanding the river's flow. Pike will often position themselves in areas where they can ambush prey moving with the current. Boat access is available at several points along the Grand River, but be mindful of shallow areas and submerged obstacles. Local tip: Carry a good pair of pliers for removing hooks, as these fish have sharp teeth.