Northern Pike

Looking to tangle with some Northern Pike near Mount Joy, PA? Your best bet is heading to the Susquehanna River. While not known as a pike hotspot, the river's weedy backwaters and slow-moving sections, especially around islands and creek mouths, can hold some surprisingly large fish. Spring, right after ice-out, and fall, when the water cools down, are prime times. Pike will be staging to spawn or bulking up for winter. Try targeting areas near the Conestoga River confluence; the influx of water and baitfish can concentrate pike. A practical tip: Access is readily available from several public boat launches along Route 30, but be mindful of shallow, rocky conditions, especially upstream. Pike in this section tend to be opportunistic feeders, so large swimbaits and flashy spoons work well. Remember to use a wire leader – those pike have sharp teeth!