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Northern Pike

Northern Pike

Northern Pike are Wisconsin's second largest predator fish, voracious predators dedicated to gluttony. These ambush predators lurk in weed beds, feeding by sight and lunging out to snatch prey with powerful jaws lined with legendary teeth.

Scientific Name: Esox lucius

Physical Characteristics:
  • Commonly caught at 18-20 inches but capable of reaching up to 50 inches.
  • They have powerful jaws lined with legendary teeth.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Widely distributed except in the unglaciated southwestern region where populations are sparse.
  • They're generally common except in the southeastern quarter where populations are seriously depressed due to fishing pressure and habitat disruption.
  • They prefer shallow, cool water and are most abundant in shallow lakes with extensive weed beds.

Key Locations

  • Wisconsin's state record is a 38-pounder from Lake Puckaway in 1952.
  • They occur throughout the Mississippi River, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior drainage basins.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow marshy bays in weed beds at 4-12 feet deep.
  • During summer they seek cooler waters near inlet streams or springs, and in deep lakes move to cooler depths.
  • For ice fishing, fish in 4-12 feet of water.

Northern Pike FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Effective lures include spoon-type lures, large crankbaits, and wobbling spoons. Live bait options include small suckers and chubs up to 8 inches suspended under sturdy bobbers or pulled slowly behind spinners. For ice fishing, use large live smelt or minnows. They prefer live fish baits.

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

Prime seasons being late spring and early summer, late summer and early fall, and winter soon after ice forms. The fishing season runs from May 3 through March 1. They're most active in cold water and are caught more easily in winter than summer.

How do you catch Northern Pike in Wisconsin?

For open water fishing, target marshy areas and weed beds when water is cool. For ice fishing, tip-ups rigged to let fish run with live bait work excellently. Keep bait moving for strikes since pike feed by sight. Presentations that mimic wounded or fleeing baitfish are most effective.

What do Northern Pike eat?

They feed on everything from fish and frogs to squirrels and sandpipers - essentially any living vertebrate that fits down their gullet.

Where do Northern Pike live in Wisconsin?

Widely distributed except in the unglaciated southwestern region where populations are sparse. They're generally common except in the southeastern quarter where populations are seriously depressed due to fishing pressure and habitat disruption.

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