Whether you're just starting out or have been pike fishing for years, now is the time to head to the water with a focused and proper approach.
When the water cools and the days shorten, the best time of year begins for many predatory anglers: autumn and early winter. In November and December, pike are very active. They build up reserves for the cold months, which means you can expect to catch large fish.
Pike behavior in the cold season In autumn, pike behavior changes significantly. The water becomes clearer, the water temperature drops, and baitfish gather in deeper areas or near structures where they can hide. Pike follow this pattern. During this period, they hunt less impulsively but more purposefully: one good meal a day can be enough. Large, highly visible deadbait or striking lures then make all the difference.
Material choice – trusting your equipment
A reliable setup is crucial. Anglers using lures should opt for a sturdy rod with enough backbone to cast large plugs or softbaits and handle a powerful fight. Consider a Westin Powercast or Shimano Yasei Pike combined with a robust reel or spinning reel, spooled with braided line of 0.20 to 0.25 millimeters. For the leader, you can choose between a steel or titanium leader, or a strong fluorocarbon leader of 0.90 to 1.1 millimeters thick.
For deadbait fishing, a longer rod of 3.00 to 3.60 meters is ideal, such as the Fox Rage Deadbait series. Use a sturdy spinning reel with a smooth drag and sufficient line capacity, such as the Shimano Baitrunner OC.
Spot selection – where to find pike in winter?
The best spots in November and December are places where baitfish congregate. Think of harbors, slopes, bridges, lock areas, or river mouths. Deep lakes and canals with slow-moving water are also often productive.
Pay attention to subtle differences in depth or bottom structure: pike often lie just next to a slope or near an obstacle where they can conserve energy and at the same time have a clear view of passing baitfish. In shallow polder waters, pike can stay close to reeds or under bridges, especially on sunny days when the water warms up a bit faster there.
Techniques – from static to active fishing
The cold months offer scope for multiple techniques. Each method has its own charm and application.
Static deadbait fishing A classic in winter. With a dead baitfish such as roach, (horse) mackerel, smelt, or sardine, you place your bait on the bottom, often equipped with a rig with two treble hooks. Use a Fox Rage Predator Camo Run Rings & Bead Kit system, in combination with the correct rig. Patience is key here, but the reward is often great.
Deadbait fishing with a float For those who want to maintain visual contact with the presentation, the float method is ideal. You can offer the bait exactly above the bottom and let your float drift slowly to fish larger areas of water. Especially for the angler who wants to be more active, this is an exciting way to fish: the moment the float slowly moves away remains special every time.
Trolling In larger waters, trolling with lures is an excellent way to find active pike. Vary in speed, depth, and lure type, such as deep-diving plugs to large softbaits and (large) swimbaits. Products like the Westin Ricky The Roach Inline or Savage Gear LT Roach 25cm & 32cm are proven catchers.
Fireball The fireball technique is perfect for those who want to fish actively from a boat with deadbait. You attach a baitfish to a jig head (fireball) and offer it vertically. By giving small taps with the rod tip, you attract the attention of curious pike. A sturdy spinning rod with a sensitive tip, such as the Patriot Pike Specialist, makes this technique particularly effective.
Casting In harbors, ditches, or shallow lakes, casting remains the most active method. Use, for example, the Rapala Super Shadow Rap Glide, the Nays HNTR, and the Westin Monster Vibe, but certainly don't forget jerkbaits such as the Savage Gear Deviator, Westin Swim and last but not least Berkley Zilla Glider. Let lures with a slow action or suspending character hang longer in the 'strike zone'; in cold water, that can make the difference between a bite or nothing.
Finally – choose wisely, fish smart
Pike fishing in November and December requires adaptation, but that's precisely what makes it so attractive. The days are shorter and the water colder, but with a well-tuned set, a thoughtful spot choice, and knowledge of the right techniques, you can catch serious fish in these months. Good clothing is essential. Warm, waterproof layers and good footwear ensure that you remain comfortable and can concentrate on fishing, even in harsh conditions. Take the time to discover patterns, be careful with your gear, and treat every pike with respect.
Predator fishing has changed significantly in recent years. New soft baits, realistic shads, clever rigs, and increasingly refined techniques have made fishing more versatile than...
