Northern Pike

Targeting Northern Pike near Geneva, Ohio, means focusing on the weedy backwaters and tributaries connected to Lake Erie. While not as abundant as in some other regions, pike can be found in areas like the Ashtabula River and Conneaut Creek, especially during the spring spawning season. Early spring, just after ice-out, is prime time. Look for shallow, vegetated areas where pike ambush prey. Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits are effective lures. Don't be afraid to use a wire leader, as pike have sharp teeth. A local tip: Explore the smaller creeks and ditches that drain into Lake Erie; these often hold pike that are migrating to spawning grounds. Be prepared for some challenging access, as many of these areas are overgrown. Pike in this region are typically in the 2-5 pound range, but larger specimens are occasionally caught. Patience and persistence are key to success when targeting pike in this area.