pike fishing help

[kevin_uk]

I have done some coarse fishing and a lot of carp fishing before but I would like to start some pike fishing . I know the basics but what style do you recomend I should fish ? shall I use spinners e.c.t
please post back or please if possible e-mail me at kevin.carn@talk21.com or if you have icq my icq is : 81303023 thanks :-)

[scorpio]

Hi Kevin,

Piking is a specialist area of the sport and you will need the correct tackle for it. A large Landing net is a must. Bite indicators that register runs and drop backs. 15lb line minimum, 20lb wire traces 18" long, a large unhooking mat semi or fully barbless hooks, wire cutters, pliers, a glove. There are some articles I have probably left out.. I use a 3lb TC Pike rod hand made for me as I cast heavy baits at times. I Lure fish, bait fish and fly fish for Pike. I have found that smaller baits take the larger pike but that is me.

Maybe if you are going for the first time pike fishing go with someone who has done it before for the first few times mate, that is the best way to learn.

Tony

[Billyo]

I agree with Tony, if your just starting out, go with someone who knows what they're doing.

I've not pike fished since I was a kid and wouldn't go unless I was with someone who had at least *some* degree of knowledge as I have heard that deep hooking can be a problem for beginners and I wouldn't want to do any damage to a fish...

Bill.

[fatboy]

Kevin,

Couldnt agree more with what has already been said about going with someone who has more experience.

However a couple of key points:-

Unhooking pike is a whole new ball game opposed to other species, with a higher potential of causing damage if not done properly. Once landed, lay the fish on its back on an unhooking mat, "sit" astride of the fish and with your gloved hand lift the fish by putting your hand through the gill flaps, carefully avoiding the rakers and hold the fish by its lower jaw bone. When you lift, the mouth normally comes open , allowing you to unhook the fish using forceps. If the hooks are out of reach then you can get closer by putting the forceps into the mouth via the gill flaps. But as said before there is no substitute for experience.

Deep hooking can be avoided by following the instant strike philosophy. Gone are the days of after getting the first indication of a run, counting to 10 or twenty before striking. Once it starts hit it!! You may lose a fish or two, but those you catch are easier to unhook.

Methods:-

Well my preference is for either a float fished or ledgered deadbait. Baits can be half mackerel, or small joey mackerel, sprats sardines, smelt etc.

If you want any more info, then please let me know.

Chris