June 2021 • Nebraskaland 35
catching pike.
However, jigs with worms and
soft swimbaits can also attract this
voracious feeding fi sh. Lures of darker
colors are sometimes better in murky
waters.
TIP 3
Use strong equipment.
Gear up with at least a 7-foot,
medium- to heavy-action rod, and a
spinning or baitcasting reel spooled
with a strong braided line of at least
20-pound test or monofi lament of at
least 15-pound test.
A pike's razor-sharp teeth can easily
cut through line, so tip yours off with
a steel or heavy fl uorocarbon leader.
Once a pike bites, you'll have a great
battle on your hands, and you will
need the proper equipment to land a
big fi sh capable of bending a rod to its
breaking point.
TIP 4
Don't get bit.
Pay close attention to the sharp teeth
and gills of pike, as they can easily
cut through your skin. You can land a
smaller northern by gripping it behind
its head: Larger pike might require a
net, but be sure to bring a big one in
case you are lucky enough to hook a
30-inch-plus fi sh. Lip-gripping pliers
also work well.
Once on the bank or in the boat,
use a jaw spreader and long, needle-
nose pliers to remove the hooks. Use
caution, as a northern will fi ght hard
even after it is in the boat or on
shore, the main reason you're fi shing
for them in the fi rst place.
N
For the latest survey information on
northern pike and Nebraska's other
fi sh species, visit outdoornebraska.org/
fi shingforecast/.
Using lures with treble hooks and
trailer hooks will help catch pike.
Oversized spinners, large plastic lures
and top-water plugs work well for
pike.
Jerry Vieyra and Robby Rowland fi sh for pike at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area during the fall.
