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Northern Pike

Northern Pike

Northern Pike are non-native predatory fish in Kentucky that have been stocked into some reservoirs but are caught infrequently.

This coolwater species has a circumpolar distribution in the northern hemisphere and thrives at water temperatures between 64-77°F, though Kentucky's warm summer water temperatures above 90°F limit their potential in many waters.

Scientific Name: Esox lucius

Physical Characteristics:
  • Pike are easily recognized by their long, slender bodies, duck bill-like snout, and jaws filled with sharp teeth.
  • They have dark-colored bodies with light markings, distinguishing them from muskellunge which have light bodies with dark markings.
  • Pike can reach 6 inches by their first summer's end, with females growing larger and living longer than males.
  • They may reach 46 pounds in southern portions of their range.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Target vegetated areas in lakes and quiet pools in rivers, focusing on shallow bays with dense aquatic vegetation where pike ambush prey.

Key Locations

  • Larger reservoirs where they've been stocked.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deeper flats in 12-20 feet of water during colder periods, transitioning to shallower vegetated areas as water warms.
  • Target vegetated areas in lakes and quiet pools in rivers, focusing on shallow bays with dense aquatic vegetation.

Northern Pike FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Northern Pike in Kentucky?

Large flashy lures like spoons, inline spinners, swimbaits, lipless crankbaits, and topwater lures in the 6-12 inch range that mimic their preferred prey size. Silver and black, red and silver, or bright flashy patterns are productive.

What flies work for Northern Pike in Kentucky?

Effective fly patterns include large streamers 5-9 inches long such as Chip's Northern Magic, Barry's Baitfish 2.0, Pike Bunny patterns for bottom fishing, and topwater options like Bangers.

When is the best time to fish for Northern Pike in Kentucky?

The best fishing occurs in late spring through early fall when water temperatures are in the optimal 64-77°F range, avoiding the spawning period in spring when waters reach 40-52°F.

How do you catch Northern Pike in Kentucky?

Fish slowly and methodically. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best action, though overcast days can extend feeding periods.

What do Northern Pike eat?

Northern Pike are aggressive ambush predators that consume large numbers of fish, requiring 5-6 pounds of food for each pound of body weight gained. Their diet includes any available fish or animal, with optimum prey size ranging from one-third to one-half the pike's body length.

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