Northern Pike Fishing in Wisconsin
Check regulations
Check regulations
Year-round
Overview
Wisconsin pike fishing is outstanding in the northern third of the state.
Many lakes have 26-32 inch slot limits that protect growing pike and produce trophies.
Flowages like the Turtle-Flambeau and Chippewa offer excellent pike habitat with stumps and weeds.
Quick-strike rigs with dead bait are a top technique for big pike in late fall.
Best Waters in Wisconsin
- Turtle-Flambeau Flowage — Iron County wilderness flowage with excellent pike numbers and trophy potential in stump-filled bays.
- Lake Pepin (Mississippi River) — Wide stretch of the Mississippi offering big pike along current breaks and backwater areas.
- Big Arbor Vitae Lake — Vilas County lake with healthy pike population and classic Northwoods weed structure.
- Lac du Flambeau Chain — Scenic chain of lakes with consistent pike action on weed edges and rocky points.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- Casting jerkbaits
- Trolling crankbaits
- Spinnerbait through weeds
- Quick-strike dead bait rig
- Tip-up fishing (ice)
Baits & Lures
- Rapala X-Rap
- Eppinger Daredevle (five of diamonds)
- Blue Fox Vibrax spinner
- Frozen smelt on quick-strike rig
- Sucker minnows
Seasonal Guide for Wisconsin
SpringSpring Fishing
Pike spawn right after ice-out in marshy shallows. Post-spawn fish feed aggressively in nearby weed-filled bays.
SummerSummer Fishing
Target cabbage weed edges and points in 8-15 feet of water. Morning and evening bites are most consistent.
FallFall Fishing
Pike feed heavily on weed flats and near schools of baitfish. Dead bait rigging produces big fish in October.
WinterWinter Fishing
Tip-up fishing on weed flats is a Wisconsin tradition. Set lines at varied depths near green vegetation.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Wisconsin Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
Specific regulations for northern pike in Wisconsin are not listed in our database. Please check the official Wisconsin regulations for current rules.