Northern Pike

Targeting northern pike near Oak Harbor offers a unique opportunity to catch these apex predators in a diverse environment. The shallow, weedy areas of the Portage River and adjacent Lake Erie bays provide ideal ambush points for pike. Spring, after the spawn, and fall, before the ice sets in, are the most productive times. Look for areas with thick vegetation, such as weed beds and lily pads. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits are effective lures. A local tip: use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs, as pike have sharp teeth. Also, be prepared for explosive strikes and acrobatic fights. The pike in this area tend to be aggressive, so don't be afraid to experiment with different retrieves and lure presentations to find what they're keying on.