Northern Pike

If you're after Northern Pike near North Baltimore, you'll need to focus on the larger reservoirs and lakes in the surrounding area. These predatory fish require sufficient space and forage to thrive. Spring, right after ice-out, is an excellent time to target pike as they move into shallow, weedy bays to spawn and feed aggressively. Look for them near remaining green vegetation. Fall is another prime time as pike fatten up before winter, often ambushing prey near drop-offs and weed lines. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits are effective lures, as are large shiners fished under a bobber. Be sure to use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs. A local tip is to check water temperatures – pike tend to be more active in cooler water. Pike populations can be somewhat limited, so practice catch and release to help sustain the fishery.