Setting the hook on northerns!

[mike692]

I know that every pike doesn't follow this same sequence, but this seems to be the norm when I fish for them. I've always had best results when setting the hook on the second run.

[spikeum]

I use treble hooks 9 out of 10 times I hook
them on there first run.

[grumpymoe]

this is the only way when fishing with BIG bait. however, light rigging with an eagleclaw hook/heavy mono as purchased and tied from factory/ with small split shot just below the loop, i rig live minnows, and when i feel the least amount of pressure/bite, i set the hook. my catch ratio would probably be around 90% or more.. grumpy

[dogfish]

Need to give the leader set up?  Quik-strik, single hook or treb hook?

[Muskie Matt]

With quick strike rig...pretty much right away. By the time I get to the tip-up he's moving pretty good, I'll set the hook. I have a very high percentage and almost never gut a fish.

[mike692]

Sorry dogfish.....single hook on a steel leader.

[Bottom bouncer]

Don't know if it's the first, second ,or third run ,but I set the hook when it's taking line.

[dogfish]

Gotchya, my vote is in 8)

[2 dogs]

Depends   if he is running fast no matter if it is first or second run I do not set the hook. If he is running slow or stopped I set the hook. I use a treble hook with steel leader if  that makes any difference,

[fishboy899]

I set the hook after they stop running.  Doesnt matter what run  it is on just as long as they are stop to swallow the bait.

[IceFisherman89]

strange every1 has a different opinion tho but with what iv fished them i have always known the procedure where u hook them where it just starts to take line, iv always hooked them that way dont recall if iv lost one on a tip up while settin the hook.

[Tip-Up]

Usually on the second run.

[BuckShotJon]

I usually set in the middle of his first run. Of course every scenario is a bit differant but usully dirung the first fun when the reel is smokin line off.

Jon

[Knife2sharp]

I have found that it typically doesn't matter if the pike are over 3 lbs.  Their mouth is large enough to pretty much cover the minnow when they grab it and a 5-6 lb nothern has it almost swallowed on the first grab.  Typically when a hammer handle bites they grab the minnow cross ways and they'll run to keep other northerns from trying to grab it.  Once they they get to a safe spot they'll stop to reposition the minnow head first.  Here is where they size of the hook you're using comes into play.  If it's too large they may feel it and drop the minnow.  That's why sometimes when you're waiting for that second run it never happens, because they dropped the minnow already.  If you set the hook while they're running the hook can attached to the minnow, but it's not in their mouth so if you set the hook you either pull the hook out of the minnow and the fish keeps the minnow or you pull the minnow out of the mouth. 

[Knife2sharp]

I forgot to add that the size of the bait matters too.  I pretty much always use shiners 4"-6" long.

[JeffH]

I always use dead bait.  If it is turning when I get there I set the hook.  I catch 95% or more with this method.