Angler’s Mail have a news feature on Summer Pike fishing and via their Facebook Page have asked the question, is summer pike fishing ok or not? On the whole the replies are pretty much for summer pike fishing with the caveat that handling of the pike needs to be done with care and the pike needs returning back to the water as soon as possible. I would argue that when handling any type of fish it should be done with care but I understand the underlying message.
I think it would be a good idea to dig a little deeper in to how to fish for pike in the summer in a responsible manner so that we can all experience some of the best sport available with rod and line.
It all boils down to two things in my opinion,
Land the pike with the minimum of fuss.
- Use dedicated/strong pike tackle, this prevents playing the pike for a prolonged period. Minimum 2.5lb test curve rod when bait fishing with a minimum of at least 15lb mono breaking strain line. In weedy areas I’ve been known to use stronger line with no obvious detrimental effect on my ability to catch. Always use a wire trace.
- When bait fishing, strike early, do not “wait” for a run to develop, summer pike tend to be more aggressive and you run the risk of deep hooking which will prolong the time the pike is out of the water and will cause more stress.
- Use a large landing net, this ensures once again that when the pike is ready to be landed it can be done so safely and quickly.
Return the pike with a minimum of fuss.
- Unhook the pike while it is still in the net and still in the water if practical, if on the bank or in a boat then use an unhooking mat. If you must weigh or take photos then keep the pike in the net, in the water until you are fully prepared to take the shot.
- Do not retain pike in areas which are shallow or in full daylight. If you must retain then use a dedicated pike tube or sack, not a keep net.
- When it is time to release the pike, ensure the pike is completely recovered and swims off in its own time. Keep hold of the pike until it does this, do not just slip it back in to the water
I think that pretty much covers things, I started Pike fishing properly last season and had some amazing summer pike fishing sessions on lures and spinners, take note of the above guidelines and there really is no reason why you can’t enjoy the same. If you think I’ve missed something let me know in the comments, if I agree I’ll update the article.
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