Northern Pike

If you're after Northern Pike in the Oakdale, Wisconsin area, focus your attention on the region's numerous smaller lakes and flowages. These waters, often teeming with vegetation, provide excellent ambush points for these apex predators. Spring and fall are the most productive times of year. In the spring, as the ice melts, pike move into shallow bays to spawn. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits are effective for covering water and triggering strikes. Fall sees pike feeding aggressively to fatten up before winter. Try trolling or casting large lures along weed edges and drop-offs. A valuable tip: many of these lakes have limited public access, so research your access points beforehand. Also, be prepared for heavy vegetation, and use weedless lures or techniques to avoid getting snagged. Pike in this region can reach impressive sizes, so be sure to use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs.