Hey all, I posted this in the state forums before I realized there was a dedicated "Northern Pike" thread...
Been pike fishing for quite a bit now with varied success. Like most people, early and late in the season has been the most productive times, with a midwinter lull. Lately I have been trying to do some research on "midwinter" strategies for pike and article after article talks about pike following the baitfish and moving deep (sometimes as deep as 30+ feet).
Growing up fishing "traditional" pike strategies (less than 12 feet or so with weeds), I have never fished this way in the middle of winter (and I also have not been very productive!)
I am trying something new the last couple trips out and hitting deep water structure, points and sharp drops on the outside of bays with large shiners, suckers and dead bait suspended about halfway down the water column. No luck so far, but has been fun to look at contour maps in a different way.
Anybody have any luck out deeper in the winter for pike? I have to admit, it has been hard to pull myself out of those shallow bays!