Use live bait such as minnows, suckers, or shiners
Use large spoons, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, or swimbaits
Fish near weed edges, drop-offs, points, and shallow bays
Target cold-water periods in spring and fall
Cast along structure and retrieve with pauses and erratic action
Use a steel or heavy fluorocarbon leader
Set the hook firmly when a strike occurs
Use strong line and sturdy tackle
Troll or cast at varying depths until you find active fish
Fish during low-light periods like dawn and dusk
Keep bait or lures moving to trigger reaction strikes
Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs
Handle pike carefully with pliers and a landing net
Check local regulations before fishing