Northern Pike

Pike fishing near Congress, Ohio, requires a bit of travel, but the rewards can be worth it. While not abundant, northern pike can be found in some of the larger reservoirs in the region, such as Lake LaDue or even West Branch Reservoir further east. Spring is prime time, as pike move into shallow weedy areas to spawn. Look for them around submerged vegetation, creek mouths, and shallow bays. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits are all effective lures. A local tip: Focus your efforts on the northern ends of the reservoirs, where the water tends to be shallower and weedier. Also, consider using a wire leader to prevent bite-offs from these toothy predators. Pike in this area tend to be opportunistic feeders, so don't be afraid to experiment with different lures and retrieves. While trophy-sized pike are rare, you can still find some respectable fish in the 30-inch range. Be prepared for some casting, as covering water is key to finding these elusive predators.