Each lake that holds pike is different. I have caught pike in water as shallow as 3 feet deep. I have also caught them is water that was 40 feet deep. I have had them hit bait just off the bottom, halfway to the bottom, and just below the ice. Pike are cruising fish that are constantly on the move. Now I don't know your lake but here is some things I have learned. Pike like weed bed edges. They like to go after bait fish that hide here. If you are over a weedy area, try to set your bait about 1-2 feet above the weeds. If there are no real weedy areas, look for where streams enter the lake. Bait fish like smelt like to go up these streams, Pike like to ambush them as they come out. Just watch your ice thickness as you drill! Another tactic that has worked for me is fishing indentations or coves along the shore line. Pike like to herd bait fish into these areas. I hope this helps you. Good luck.