Fishing for pike in rivers is a thrilling and rewarding experience, and using the right fishing lure can significantly increase your chances of success. While there are many types of lures available, spinnerbaits are particularly effective for pike fishing, especially in river environments where pike are often found hunting in deeper waters or near structures like fallen trees, rocks, and weed beds.
Handmade spinnerbait fishing lures offer a unique edge in the market, providing exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and realistic action in the water. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through how to effectively use a handmade spinnerbait for pike fishing in rivers. We will cover the types of spinnerbaits available, the best techniques for using them, and how to maximize their effectiveness to catch more pike.
Why Choose Handmade Spinnerbait Fishing Lures for Pike in Rivers?
Before we dive into the specific techniques and top-rated lures, it’s important to understand why spinnerbaits are an excellent choice for pike fishing in rivers. Here are a few key reasons why spinnerbaits are so effective:
1. Versatility in River Conditions
Rivers offer varied environments, from fast-moving currents to calm, deep pools. Spinnerbaits are incredibly versatile, as they can be used in both fast-moving water and still or slow-moving areas. The design of the spinnerbait allows it to cut through the water easily, making it effective in diverse river environments where pike are often found.
2. Attracts Pike with Vibration and Flash
Pike are predatory fish that rely heavily on their sense of sight and vibration to detect prey. Spinnerbaits produce a unique combination of flashing light from the rotating blades and vibrations in the water, which mimic the movement of injured or fleeing baitfish. This makes them highly attractive to pike, especially in murky or cloudy river conditions where visibility is limited.
3. Ideal for Targeting Pike Near Structures
Pike often take refuge near submerged structures like rocks, weed beds, and fallen timber. Spinnerbaits are perfect for fishing around these structures, as they can be easily maneuvered through weeds and debris without getting snagged. The weedless design of many spinnerbaits helps avoid tangling in heavy vegetation.
4. Easy to Use
Spinnerbaits are user-friendly, making them an excellent choice for anglers of all experience levels, from beginners to experts. They are simple to cast and retrieve, making them an accessible option for those new to pike fishing in rivers.
Types of Handmade Spinnerbait Fishing Lures for Pike in Rivers
There are different types of spinnerbaits designed for specific fishing conditions. When targeting pike in rivers, the right spinnerbait can make all the difference. Below, we’ll discuss the most effective types of handmade spinnerbaits for pike fishing.
1. Single Blade Spinnerbaits
Single blade spinnerbaits are one of the most common types used in river fishing. These spinnerbaits have a single rotating blade that creates flash and vibration as it spins through the water. They are great for attracting pike, especially in clear or slightly stained water, and can be used in both shallow and deep river sections.
- Best For: Shallow to mid-depth waters with moderate current
- Action: Steady flashing and vibrations
- Colors: Silver, gold, and chartreuse
- Best Used: In clearer waters or when fish are feeding on smaller baitfish
Single blade spinnerbaits are easy to cast and retrieve, making them ideal for beginners or casual anglers.
2. Double Blade Spinnerbaits
Double blade spinnerbaits have two rotating blades that produce more flash and vibration than single blade versions. These spinnerbaits are especially effective in murky or fast-moving river currents, where pike need extra sensory stimulation to locate prey. The double blades provide a strong presence in the water, making these spinnerbaits ideal for deeper sections of the river or when pike are less active.
- Best For: Murky water, deeper currents, and sluggish pike
- Action: Strong flash and increased vibrations
- Colors: Bright colors such as chartreuse, fire tiger, and orange
- Best Used: In deeper river sections, especially during low-light conditions
Double blade spinnerbaits are great for experienced anglers who want to target pike in more challenging river environments.
3. Colorado Blade Spinnerbaits
Colorado blade spinnerbaits feature a large, round blade that produces a thumping, low-frequency vibration as it spins. This design is ideal for targeting pike in rivers with high turbidity or fast currents, as the larger vibrations travel further and attract fish even when visibility is poor.
- Best For: Murky or fast-moving river water
- Action: Strong, low-frequency thumping and vibration
- Colors: Gold, silver, and dark colors for better visibility
- Best Used: In deep, fast-moving water where pike are hiding near structures
Colorado blade spinnerbaits are effective for rivers with challenging conditions, making them ideal for anglers who want to fish in a variety of river environments.
4. Willow Blade Spinnerbaits
Willow blade spinnerbaits feature long, thin blades that create a subtle flash and are perfect for clear water conditions. These lures excel in shallow to mid-depth waters where the goal is to create a delicate, natural flash that mimics baitfish swimming near the surface.
- Best For: Clear water and shallow river areas
- Action: Subtle flash with a smooth retrieve
- Colors: Natural baitfish colors like silver, white, and shad
- Best Used: In shallow river sections or when pike are feeding near the surface
Willow blade spinnerbaits are perfect for anglers who want to target pike in clearer river environments, where more subtle action is needed.
How to Use Handmade Spinnerbait Fishing Lures for Pike in Rivers
Using spinnerbait fishing lures effectively for pike in rivers requires understanding how to set up the lure, cast it properly, and retrieve it to trigger strikes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use spinnerbaits for maximum success:
1. Selecting the Right Spinnerbait
Choose the right spinnerbait based on water clarity, depth, and current speed. In clear water, opt for a single blade or willow blade spinnerbait for a subtle flash. In murky or fast-moving waters, use a double blade or Colorado blade spinnerbait to produce more vibration and flash.
2. Setting Up Your Rod and Reel
For pike fishing in rivers, a medium to heavy-action rod paired with a reel that holds 10-20 lb braided line is ideal. The braided line provides the sensitivity and strength needed to feel bites and handle the weight of pike. A longer rod (7-8 feet) is ideal for casting long distances and controlling the retrieve.
3. Casting the Spinnerbait
Cast the spinnerbait towards areas where pike are likely to be hiding—around submerged rocks, weed beds, or river bends. Try to target structures like fallen logs or drop-offs where pike often rest and ambush prey.
4. Retrieving the Spinnerbait
Retrieve the spinnerbait steadily to create consistent vibrations. Vary the retrieve speed to see how the pike react. A slower retrieve works well when pike are sluggish, while a faster retrieve can mimic an escaping prey fish, attracting more aggressive fish. Try a stop-and-go retrieval pattern, pausing intermittently to mimic the movement of a distressed baitfish.
5. Watch for Strikes
Pike are known for their explosive strikes, so pay close attention to your line and rod tip. When you feel a pull or see a splash on the surface, set the hook by quickly snapping the rod upwards. Pike have tough mouths, so a firm hook set is essential.
6. Fishing Around Structures
Focus your efforts around underwater structures where pike are likely to congregate, such as rocky ledges, weed beds, and drop-offs. Use your spinnerbait to cover these areas systematically, making sure to retrieve it through the depths and near the bottom.
Where to Buy Handmade Spinnerbait Fishing Lures for Pike in Rivers
If you’re looking for premium handmade spinnerbait fishing lures that offer superior performance and durability, Lurebolt is the perfect place to shop. We offer a wide selection of high-quality, custom-built spinnerbaits designed to handle various fishing conditions, including pike fishing in rivers.
Visit lurebolt.com today to browse our range of handmade spinnerbaits and other fishing gear designed to help you reel in the big one.
Conclusion
Using a handmade spinnerbait fishing lure for pike in rivers is an effective and enjoyable way to target this predatory fish. The versatility, flash, and vibration created by spinnerbaits make them ideal for attracting pike, especially in shallow and murky river environments. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, mastering the technique of using spinnerbaits will increase your chances of success on your next fishing trip.
For the best spinnerbait fishing lures and other premium gear, visit lurebolt.com and enhance your fishing experience today!
This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to successfully fish for pike in rivers with handmade spinnerbait fishing lures. Whether you are targeting pike in fast-moving currents or calm, shallow waters, the right spinnerbait will help you improve your chances of landing that big catch.