Whether you’re new to pike fishing or have years of experience under your belt, now is the time to approach the water with focus and the right strategy.
As water temperatures drop and days grow shorter, many predator anglers agree this is the best time of year: late autumn and early winter. In November and December, pike are highly active, feeding aggressively to build up reserves for the colder months. This is the season when you can expect to hook into truly big fish.
Pike behaviour shifts significantly in autumn. The water becomes clearer, temperatures drop, and baitfish school together in deeper zones or around structures for shelter. Pike follows this movement. Their hunting becomes more calculated; one solid meal a day can be enough. Large, highly visible baitfish or eye-catching lures can make all the difference.
Gear Choices – Trust in Your Setup
A reliable setup is essential. When fishing with lures, choose a rod with enough backbone to cast heavy crankbaits or softbaits and to handle strong fish during the fight. Rods like the Westin Powercast or Shimano Yasei Pike, combined with a robust reel or baitcaster spooled with braided line between 0.20 and 0.25 millimetres, are ideal. For leaders, you can opt for steel or titanium wire, or a strong fluorocarbon leader between 0.90 and 1.1 millimetres thick.
For deadbait fishing, a longer rod between 3.00 and 3.60 metres works best. The Fox Rage Deadbait series is a solid option. Pair it with a sturdy reel with smooth drag and enough line capacity, such as the Shimano Baitrunner OC.
Spot Selection – Where to Find Pike in Winter
The best spots in November and December are where baitfish congregate. Think harbours, slopes, bridges, locks, or river mouths. Deep lakes and slow-moving canals can also be very productive.
Pay attention to subtle differences in depth or structure. Pike like to lie just off a drop-off or near obstacles where they can conserve energy while having a good view of passing prey. In shallow polder waters, pike may stay close to reeds or under small bridges, especially on sunny days when the water there warms up slightly faster.
Techniques – From Static to Active Approaches
Cold months offer the opportunity to apply a wide range of techniques, each with its own advantages.
Static Deadbait Fishing
A winter classic. Present a dead baitfish such as roach, (horse) mackerel, smelt or sardine on the bottom, usually rigged with a twin-treble trace. Use systems like the Fox Rage Predator Camo Run Rings & Bead Kit in combination with the right rig. Patience is key here, but the rewards can be significant.
Float Fishing with Deadbait
For anglers who want visual contact with their bait presentation, float fishing is perfect. You can position the bait just off the bottom and let the float drift to cover water effectively. This method is especially exciting for active anglers, watching the float slowly disappear never loses its magic.
Trolling
In larger bodies of water, trolling with lures is an excellent way to locate active pike. Vary your speed, depth, and lure types, from deep-diving crankbaits to large softbaits or swimbaits. Lures like the Westin Ricky The Roach Inline or Savage Gear LT Roach in 25 or 32 centimetres are proven fish-catchers.
Fireball Rigging
The fireball method is ideal for active deadbait fishing from a boat. Attach a baitfish to a lead head (fireball) and present it vertically. Small rod twitches can trigger curious pike. A strong yet sensitive spinning rod, such as the Patriot Pike Specialist, is perfect for this technique.
Casting Lures
In harbours, canals or shallow lakes, casting remains the most active method. Try the Rapala Super Shadow Rap Glide, Nays HNTR, or Westin Monster Vibe. Don’t forget jerkbaits like the Savage Gear Deviator, Westin Swim and the Berkley Zilla Glider. In cold water, use lures with a slow or suspending action that linger longer in the strike zone; it can make the difference between a take or nothing at all.
Final Thoughts – Fish Smart, Stay Sharp
Pike fishing in November and December requires adjustments, but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding. The days are shorter and the water colder, but with a well-balanced setup, smart spot selection and proper technique, you can land serious fish during these months.
Proper clothing is just as important. Warm, waterproof layers and quality footwear will keep you comfortable and focused, even in harsh conditions. Take your time to read patterns, treat your gear with care, and handle every pike with respect.