Spinning with Lures for Northern Pike
Casting and retrieving spinners, spoons or small soft plastics on light spinning tackle. Applied to northern pike, that means 30–65 lb main line and a heavy, fast action rod as your baseline.
Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy
Rod, reel, line and hooks
- Rod
- Heavy, fast action, 7–9 ft
- Reel
- 4000–6000 spinning, or a strong baitcaster
- Main line
- 30–65 lb
- Hooks
- Size 2–6 treble hooks on wire traces; 4/0–6/0 singles for deadbait
- Method — Rod
- 6'–7'6" Light to Medium spinning rod
- Method — Line
- 6–12 lb mono or braid, matched to the species
- Method — Trace
- Wire or 40 lb+ fluorocarbon trace whenever pike may be present
Where the species baseline and the method spec differ, the method spec is the more specific advice — the species row tells you the strength you need, the method row tells you the behaviour you need.
Check prices for this setupWhy this works on this fish
How the rig works
A rotating blade or wobbling spoon puts out flash and vibration that predators detect on the lateral line as well as by sight, so it works in coloured water where sight-only baits fail.
Northern Pike behaviour
Pure predator — eats fish, and will attack prey a third of its own length.
Weedy bays, drop-offs and slow rivers. Ambushes from weed edges and reed lines.
When to fish it
Cool water, autumn through early spring; overcast, stable pressure.
Northern Pike tips
- Always use a wire trace, long-nose pliers, and unhooking mat or cradle.
- Barbless or crushed-barb trebles make unhooking far faster and safer for the fish.
- Never lift a pike vertically by the jaw; support the body.
Other methods for northern pike
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Common questions
What line do I need for spinning with lures for northern pike?
Use 30–65 lb main line, adjusting for cover and water clarity.
What hook size for spinning with lures for northern pike?
Size 2–6 treble hooks on wire traces; 4/0–6/0 singles for deadbait.
What rod and reel suit spinning with lures for northern pike?
A heavy, fast action rod around 7–9 ft with 4000–6000 spinning, or a strong baitcaster.
Is spinning with lures hard to learn?
Difficulty is 1/5 (very easy). Spinners twist line badly. Use a quality swivel and re-spool when coils appear.
When does spinning with lures work best for northern pike?
Cool water, autumn through early spring; overcast, stable pressure.