Canada, with its pristine lakes, rivers, and abundant wildlife, is an angler’s paradise. Among the most sought-after freshwater species is the pike, a predatory fish known for its aggressive nature and impressive size. Whether you’re fishing in the clear waters of Ontario, the vast expanses of Alberta, or the rugged Quebec lakes, topwater fishing lures are an exciting and effective choice for pike fishing.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using durable topwater fishing lures to target pike in Canada. From understanding why topwater lures are so effective for pike to setting up the perfect rig, we’ll provide detailed instructions, tips, and product recommendations that will help you reel in your next big catch.
Why Topwater Lures Are Ideal for Pike Fishing
The Allure of Topwater Lures
Topwater fishing lures are designed to float on the surface of the water, creating surface disturbances and attracting fish to strike from below. For pike, topwater lures simulate the movement of prey on the surface, such as smaller fish, frogs, or insects, which are natural food sources for these aggressive predators.
Topwater fishing is one of the most thrilling ways to fish for pike. The explosive strikes and visual action of a pike attacking a surface lure make it a captivating experience for anglers of all skill levels. Topwater lures can be particularly effective during dawn and dusk when pike are more actively hunting in shallower waters.
Advantages of Using Topwater Lures for Pike:
- Excitement: Topwater fishing provides an exhilarating visual experience. Watching pike strike a surface lure is a highlight for many anglers.
- Versatility: Topwater lures can be used in various water conditions, including calm lakes, rivers, and weed-heavy areas.
- Effective for Aggressive Pike: Pike are known for their aggressive feeding habits, and topwater lures mimic the frantic movements of prey, enticing them to strike.
- Easy to Use: For anglers who prefer a more straightforward fishing experience, topwater lures are relatively simple to cast and retrieve, making them ideal for beginners.
Types of Durable Topwater Fishing Lures for Pike
There is a wide variety of topwater fishing lures designed to meet different fishing conditions and pike behavior. Here, we’ll explore the best types of lures to use for pike in Canada.
1. Pencil Poppers
Pencil poppers are long, slender lures that create a distinct “pop” on the water’s surface when retrieved. They are great for attracting pike with their aggressive splashing action, making them one of the most effective topwater lures for pike.
- Best For: Shallow waters, especially in early morning or late evening when pike are feeding near the surface.
- Technique: Use a pop-and-pause retrieve. Cast the popper and then jerk your rod to create the popping sound, pausing to let the lure settle before repeating.
- Durability: Pencil poppers made of high-quality plastic or balsa wood can withstand repeated strikes from pike, making them ideal for saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Example: The LureBolt Pencil Popper is a popular choice for pike fishing. Its slender design and durable construction make it perfect for creating surface disturbances that attract aggressive pike.
2. Walking Lures
Walking lures are designed to mimic the side-to-side swimming action of small fish or wounded prey on the surface. This action, known as “walking the dog,” is highly effective for triggering pike strikes, especially when the fish are actively hunting.
- Best For: Clearer waters or areas with visible fish activity.
- Technique: Use short, quick jerks of the rod to create a walking motion on the surface. Adjust the speed of the retrieve to match the pike’s feeding behavior.
- Durability: Choose walking lures with stainless steel or polymer bodies for maximum durability and resistance to wear from both strikes and water conditions.
Example: A LureBolt Walking Lure designed with a realistic finish and high-impact body works wonders for pike. The erratic side-to-side movement is irresistible to predators like pike.
3. Frog Lures
Frog lures are excellent choices for targeting pike in weedy areas or shallow, vegetated lakes. Their design imitates the movement of a frog, a favorite prey of pike in these environments.
- Best For: Fishing in areas with thick vegetation, weeds, or lily pads where pike tend to ambush prey.
- Technique: Cast the frog lure into weedy patches and retrieve it slowly, allowing it to skim across the surface while creating subtle splashes.
- Durability: High-quality frog lures made from soft rubber or silicone offer durability against frequent strikes from pike and can handle tough environments like weedy water.
Example: The LureBolt Frog Lure is engineered to glide smoothly over water surfaces, offering great action in both weed-heavy and open water environments.
4. Buzzbaits
Buzzbaits are designed with a spinning blade at the front that creates a buzzing sound and disturbance on the water’s surface. This sound attracts pike and other predators, especially in low-light or murky water conditions.
- Best For: Murky waters or areas where visibility is low, especially when pike are feeding aggressively.
- Technique: Retrieve the buzzbait steadily, making sure the spinning blade creates a commotion on the surface. Experiment with the retrieve speed for the most effective action.
- Durability: Buzzbaits made with sturdy metal components and high-strength plastics ensure they can handle powerful pike strikes without breaking down.
Example: The LureBolt Buzzbait has a durable metal blade that produces consistent buzz and surface disturbance, making it highly effective for attracting pike in murky or cloudy water.
Setting Up Your Durable Topwater Fishing Lures for Pike
To get the best performance from your topwater fishing lures, it’s essential to set them up correctly. Here’s how you can optimize your gear and techniques for a successful pike fishing experience in Canada:
1. Choosing the Right Rod and Reel
For topwater pike fishing, you need a medium to heavy rod with a fast action. This will give you the necessary sensitivity and strength to handle the power of pike. A rod length of 6’6” to 7’ is ideal for casting long distances and working the lures effectively.
- Rod Power: Medium to heavy for proper hook sets and battling larger pike.
- Reel: A spinning reel or baitcasting reel with a high gear ratio (6.1:1 or higher) allows you to retrieve your lures quickly and effectively.
2. Line Selection
Choosing the right fishing line is crucial when using topwater lures. For pike fishing, consider using braided line with a high-pound test rating, such as 30-50 lb braid. The braided line offers excellent sensitivity, strength, and minimal stretch, which is important for detecting bites and setting hooks.
- Leader Line: Attach a fluorocarbon leader of at least 40-50 lb test to help with abrasion resistance when pike have sharp teeth.
3. Setting Up the Lure
When rigging your topwater fishing lure, ensure the hook is sharp and securely attached. Many topwater lures come with treble hooks, but you can also opt for single hooks if you prefer.
- Tip: Use split rings to ensure that your hooks stay securely in place and can withstand the pressure of large pike strikes.
4. Casting Techniques
When casting your topwater lure, aim for areas where pike are likely to be hiding or feeding—around submerged rocks, vegetation, and structure. Cast beyond your target area and bring the lure back towards the fish. This will help create an enticing presentation that mimics a struggling or fleeing prey item.
Best Times to Fish for Pike in Canada
Understanding when to fish is just as important as choosing the right lure. Here are the best times to target pike using topwater fishing lures in Canada:
- Early Morning: Pike are more likely to be active and feeding near the surface at dawn, making it an ideal time for topwater lures.
- Late Evening: As light fades, pike become more aggressive and are often found near the surface in search of food.
- Pre-Spawn and Post-Spawn: Pike are particularly active during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods when they are feeding aggressively.
- Overcast Days: Cloudy conditions often lead to more active pike near the surface, as they feel safer hunting during overcast skies.
Conclusion
Using durable topwater fishing lures is an exciting and highly effective way to target pike in Canada’s lakes and rivers. Whether you’re using pencil poppers, walking lures, frog lures, or buzzbaits, these lures create enticing surface disturbances that attract pike to strike.
By understanding how to set up your gear, choosing the right lures, and mastering effective techniques, you’ll increase your chances of success while enjoying the thrill of topwater fishing.
Visit LureBolt.com today to browse our selection of high-quality topwater fishing lures and gear up for your next pike fishing adventure in Canada.
For more information and to shop our lures, visit lurebolt.com.