How to catch a pike in autumn?
An avid fisherman always looks forward to the autumn season to catch a toothy predator. After all, pike actively prepares for wintering in autumn: it eats a lot and stores fat. But catching a predator in September, October and November is fundamentally different in terms of bait and hunting strategy. Let's consider the peculiarities of the choice of baits, secrets and strategies for effective pike fishing in autumn.
For convenient fishing from the shore, it is important to correctly choose the length of the spinning rod (we move away from the fishing spot):
- 2.1 m - universal spinning, which is suitable for small and medium-sized ponds.
- 2.7-3.1 m - spinning for long casts in large water.
An important parameter is spin test - mass interval a bait that provides the most comfortable casting. For a beginner fisherman who is not yet good enough at spinning, it is better to immediately buy tackle with a weight of up to 45 grams. And fishermen who have already honed their jig fishing technique buy a spinning rod with a weight of up to 15 g, because small jig (soft) baits work perfectly with it.
What is the best bait for pike?
For this, various silicone baits in the form of fry and insects of all sizes and colors are suitable. Hungry fish prefer bait up to 10 cm in size (it is better to have several colors of bait at hand, considering that this fish is very cunning).
A good option is foam baitfish dressed on standard, double or treble hooks. For ponds with snags and a lot of vegetation, a wobbler with offset hooks is perfect.
A few good tips:
- It is better to attract a fed pike with a bait with the color of a forage fish, which is preferred by the predator (for example, pikeperch, crucian carp, etc.).
- An active pike is baited with a bright wobbler, which is visible from a long distance (the most effective red and white bait).
- To attract a lazy predator, you should buy a wobbler that makes a sound.
What is pike caught for in September?
This month, predatory fish are very active and often bite, so fishing is often successful, especially on soft baits. Minnow-type wobblers that drag near thickets and in areas with snags are perfect.
Catching a predator in October
The angler needs to change his strategy here, because compared to last month, in October, the pike has practically had enough and bites less and less: medium and small-sized wobblers no longer work. Fishermen fish for large baits from a boat using trolling fishing tactics. Autumn slush and light rain are the ideal weather for a successful catch of a predator in October.
Fishing in November: what to catch pike
All murniak before hibernation go to the depths and pike follow him. Therefore, for pike hunting, fishermen use heavy spinners and bait for great depth. A vibrotail and a rocker can also be used, believing that it will ensure a good catch. In November, as a rule, live bait is not caught. Firstly, it is not so easy to get. And secondly, there will not be enough activity on the hook.
Following these recommendations, you can achieve the maximum catch of pike in autumn.