Northern Pike
Northern pike in Illinois are aggressive carnivorous predators found primarily in natural lakes and streams north of Peoria (40 degrees latitude), which marks the southern limit of their global range.
Scientific Name: Esox lucius
- These elongated fish are characterized by olive green coloring that shades to yellow-white on the belly, with light bar-like spots on the flanks and dark spots on the fins.
- They have sharp, backward-pointing teeth and large sensory pores on their heads as part of their lateral line system.
Fishing in Illinois
Sangamon River
Lake Clinton
Illinois River
Salt Creek
Vermilion River
Evergreen Lake
Dawson Lake
Lake Bloomington
Upper Peoria Lake
Lake Decatur
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found primarily in natural lakes and streams north of Peoria (40 degrees latitude), which marks the southern limit of their global range.
- Illinois pike prefer larger, shallow, weedy lakes with fairly clear water, making many of the state's glacial lakes ideal habitat.
- They also inhabit backwater lakes and sloughs off rivers throughout northern Illinois.
Key Locations
- Fox Chain O'Lakes (excellent for both pike and musky), Des Plaines River between Lyons and Lemont, and various glacial lakes throughout northern Illinois.
Specific Spots
- Target areas with abundant cover including weed beds, fallen trees, rocky areas, and structure where pike ambush prey.
Northern Pike FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Northern Pike in Illinois?
For artificials, spoons and minnow-like plugs are particularly effective. Jerkbaits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and large swimbaits also produce consistently. Live bait options include suckers, golden shiners, and other large minnows.
What flies work for Northern Pike in Illinois?
Large streamer patterns such as Chip's Magic, Whistler flies, and Bunny patterns.
When is the best time to fish for Northern Pike in Illinois?
Spring offers excellent opportunities as pike become active and aggressive after winter, while fall provides another peak as fish feed heavily before winter. Summer fishing requires targeting deeper, cooler waters where pike retreat during hot weather.
How do you catch Northern Pike in Illinois?
Pike respond well to both artificial lures and live bait. Cast along edges, cover, or over weed beds. Pike often follow lures to the boat before striking, so retrieve flies and lures completely to the leader.
What do Northern Pike eat?
They are mostly piscivorous, feeding primarily on smaller fish, but also consume crayfish, frogs, snakes, and mice.
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