Why Target Northern Pike?

Northern Pike are voracious predators found in nearly every lake and river in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan’s UP. Their olive-green bodies, white bar-like spots, and reddish fins make them unmistakable. They’re known for their explosive strikes and challenging fights, making them a top choice for ice anglers. Pike often grow to impressive sizes, with trophy catches in the 30- to 40-inch range possible in these regions. Plus, they’re excellent table fare when properly filleted, though their bony structure requires careful preparation.

Prime Locations for Ice Fishing Northern Pike

Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s waters, such as Lake Winnebago and Green Bay, are renowned for trophy-sized Northern Pike. Green Bay, a massive arm of Lake Michigan, is a hotspot due to its weed beds and drop-offs, ideal for pike ambushing prey. Inland lakes like Big Cedar Lake and the Menominee River also hold strong populations. Use tools like the Navionics map app to locate weed lines and underwater structures where pike hide. Trophy Ice Fish notes that pike are abundant in Wisconsin, making them one of the easiest species to target.

[](https://trophyicefish.com/2020/11/19/ice-fishing-for-northern-pike/)

Minnesota

Minnesota, with over 11,000 lakes, is a paradise for ice fishing. Lakes like Lake of the Woods, Leech Lake, and Upper Red Lake are prime for Northern Pike. These waters offer shallow flats and weed edges where pike hunt. The Minnesota DNR’s LakeFinder tool provides fish population data for over 4,500 lakes, helping you pinpoint pike hotspots. Early winter (December-January) is ideal for active pike, while late winter sees them move to shallow spawning bays.

[](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/gofishing/ice-fishing-northern-pike.html)

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

The UP boasts over 4,000 inland lakes and ice-covered bays on Lakes Superior, Michigan, and Huron. Popular spots include Lake Gogebic, Little Bay de Noc, and the Cisco Chain of Lakes. Munuscong Bay is known for monster pike and even muskellunge. The Michigan DNR Fishing Guide is a must for regulations and updates. The UP’s long, cold winters ensure solid ice from December to March, sometimes April.

[](https://www.uptravel.com/blog/post/ice-fishermans-tips-for-angling/)

Essential Gear for Ice Fishing Northern Pike

Ice fishing for Northern Pike requires specialized equipment to handle their size and sharp teeth. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ice Augers

An ice auger is critical for drilling holes through the ice. A 6-inch auger is sufficient for most pike, but an 8-inch model like the StrikeMaster Lazer Hand Auger is ideal for larger fish. For faster drilling, consider an electric auger like the Ion Electric Ice Auger, which is quiet and efficient. Always carry an ice chisel to check ice thickness and clear slush.

[](https://www.onxmaps.com/fish/blog/ice-fishing-in-minnesota-and-wisconsin)

Tip-Ups

Tip-ups are the go-to for Northern Pike due to their ability to cover large areas. The Frabill Arctic Fire Tip-Up is a reliable choice, while the HT Dedication to Customer Service
HT Enterprises Polar Tip-Up is popular in Wisconsin for its durability. Rig tip-ups with 45- to 70-pound braided line and a 2- to 3-foot wire or fluorocarbon leader to prevent bite-offs.

[](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/gofishing/ice-fishing-northern-pike.html)[](https://www.si.com/onsi/fishing/freshwater/best-winter-tip-up-fishing-for-northern-pike)

Bait and Tackle

Live bait, such as 4- to 6-inch shiners or sucker minnows, is highly effective for pike. A quick-strike rig with two No. 4 treble hooks improves hookup rates. For jigging, try flutter spoons or rattle baits like the Rapala Jigging Rap. Use a wire leader like the Berkley Steel Leader to protect against pike’s sharp teeth.

[](https://www.outdoorlife.com/fishing/ice-fishing-for-pike/)[](https://tailoredtackle.com/ice-fishing-for-pike-how-to-target-northern-pike-through-the-ice/)

Additional Gear

• Needle-nose pliers for safe hook removal
• Portable fish finder (e.g., Vexilar Sonar) to locate fish
• Ice shanty or portable shelter for warmth
• Warm clothing, ice picks, and a life jacket for safety

Techniques for Success

To catch Northern Pike through the ice, follow these proven strategies:

• • Spread Your Holes: Drill multiple holes over a wide area, targeting weed edges, drop-offs, and points in 3- to 15-foot depths. Vary bait depths to cover the water column.

https://norrik.com/ice-fishing-for-northern-pike-where-when-and-how/)[](https://tailoredtackle.com/ice-fishing-for-pike-how-to-target-northern-pike-through-the-ice/

• • Use Tip-Ups Strategically: Set up a series of tip-ups over underwater structures like weed beds or drop-offs. Check baits every 30 minutes and jig occasionally to attract pike.

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/gofishing/ice-fishing-northern-pike.html

• • Wait Before Setting the Hook: Pike often grab bait sideways and swim before swallowing head-first. Wait 10-15 seconds after a flag pops to ensure a good hook set.

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/gofishing/ice-fishing-northern-pike.html)[](https://trophyicefish.com/2020/11/19/ice-fishing-for-northern-pike/

• • Dead Stick Technique: Use a rod with a live bait jig and let it sit still while jigging a flashy lure nearby to draw pike in.

Ice Fishing for Pike: How to Target Northern Pike Through the Ice

• • Safety First: Check ice thickness (at least 4 inches for walking) and avoid areas with current or cloudy water. Always fish with a buddy and carry safety gear.

https://www.uptravel.com/outdoors-recreation/winter-activities-sports/ice-fishing/

Regulations and Safety

Before heading out, ensure you have a valid fishing license for Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Michigan. Check species-specific bag limits and ice shelter regulations. For example, Minnesota has strict walleye limits on lakes like Mille Lacs, and Michigan requires shanties to be marked and removed by March 31. Always prioritize safety by testing ice with an auger or spud bar and avoiding areas with weak ice.

[](https://www.onxmaps.com/fish/blog/ice-fishing-in-minnesota-and-wisconsin)[](https://www.uptravel.com/blog/post/ice-fishermans-tips-for-angling/)

Conclusion

Ice fishing for Northern Pike in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is an exciting and rewarding winter adventure. By targeting prime locations, using quality gear like the Frabill Arctic Fire Tip-Up and StrikeMaster Lazer Hand Auger, and applying strategic techniques, you’ll increase your chances of landing a trophy pike. Always prioritize safety, respect local regulations, and enjoy the serene beauty of these frozen lakes. Happy fishing!