Pike fishing is a favorite pursuit for many anglers, and using the right lure is crucial to success. When fishing for pike in ponds, especially during the warmer months, topwater lures can be incredibly effective. Their ability to create surface disturbances and attract pike from beneath the water makes them a top choice for many experienced anglers.
In this guide, we will dive into how to use handmade topwater fishing lures specifically designed for pike in ponds. We will cover the techniques that can increase your chances of success, the best times to fish, and tips on choosing the right setup. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert angler, this article will provide all the information you need to maximize your chances of catching that trophy pike.
Why Topwater Lures are Ideal for Pond Pike Fishing
1. Surface Action Attracts Pike
Topwater lures are known for their ability to create a surface disturbance that mimics struggling prey. This action is irresistible to pike, who are often lurking just below the surface, waiting for an opportunity to strike. Handmade topwater lures are particularly effective as they often feature unique designs and quality materials that allow for a more realistic presentation.
2. Pike’s Hunting Behavior
Pike are ambush predators that prefer hunting in shallow water and around structures like submerged logs, weeds, and drop-offs. These areas are where handmade topwater lures truly shine. By creating a popping or splashing action, they simulate the movement of injured fish, which draws pike out from their hiding spots.
3. Exciting and Interactive Fishing Experience
The visual appeal of topwater fishing is one of its most exciting aspects. Watching a pike strike a topwater lure is thrilling, and this action often occurs in shallow waters, which can be extremely engaging for anglers. The anticipation and explosive strikes make for an unforgettable fishing experience.
Types of Handmade Topwater Lures for Pike
1. Poppers
Poppers are one of the most popular types of topwater lures for pike. These lures have a concave face that “pops” and splashes when retrieved, mimicking the movement of struggling baitfish on the surface.
- When to Use: Use poppers when fishing in calm or slightly rippled waters, particularly near weedy areas or submerged structures.
- Best Size: A 4-6 inch popper is ideal for pike, as it mimics the size of common prey species.
2. Walking Baits (Walk-the-Dog)
Walking baits are designed to create an erratic side-to-side motion that mimics an injured or fleeing fish. The “walk-the-dog” action can be very effective at catching the attention of pike.
- When to Use: Use walking baits in areas with some surface chop or in areas where pike are actively hunting.
- Best Size: A medium-sized walking bait (5-7 inches) works well for pond pike.
3. Frog Lures
Frog lures are particularly effective in ponds with heavy vegetation. These lures mimic the movement of a frog, which is a natural food source for pike.
- When to Use: Fish frog lures in areas with dense aquatic vegetation, lily pads, or near weed beds.
- Best Size: A 3-5 inch frog lure is effective for pike in ponds.
4. Buzzbaits
Buzzbaits are great for creating a lot of noise and surface disturbance. The spinning blade of a buzzbait creates a unique buzzing sound that pike cannot resist.
- When to Use: Buzzbaits work well in ponds with high surface activity or when the pike are more aggressive.
- Best Size: A medium to large buzzbait (4-6 inches) is ideal for pike.
How to Use Handmade Topwater Lures for Pike Fishing in Ponds
1. Casting Techniques
The first step to successfully using topwater lures is mastering your casting technique. Cast the lure beyond your target area, allowing it to settle before starting your retrieve. The goal is to let the lure land as quietly as possible to avoid spooking the pike.
- Target Areas: Focus on shallow waters, weed beds, submerged rocks, and structures such as fallen trees or drop-offs where pike are likely to hide.
- Cast Angles: Use a variety of casting angles, such as parallel to the shore or into the weeds, to cover different areas of the pond.
2. Retrieve Methods
The retrieve method plays a crucial role in the success of your topwater lure. Different types of lures require different retrieve techniques:
- Poppers: Use a steady retrieve with occasional pauses to allow the popper to create splashes on the surface. Add slight jerks to increase the action if needed.
- Walking Baits: Retrieve in short, sharp jerks, allowing the lure to walk back and forth across the surface. The goal is to create an erratic, unpredictable motion.
- Frog Lures: Use short, sharp twitches to make the frog mimic the movement of a frog hopping across the surface.
- Buzzbaits: Retrieve at a steady speed, keeping the buzzbait near the surface and allowing the spinning blade to create a buzzing noise.
3. Adjusting Retrieve Speed
One of the most important aspects of using topwater lures is adjusting your retrieve speed based on pike behavior. If you’re not getting strikes, try slowing down or speeding up your retrieve to see what the pike respond to. When pike are more aggressive, a faster retrieve can trigger them to strike, while a slower, more deliberate retrieve works well when they are less active.
4. Using Pause and Go Technique
For certain lures like poppers and walking baits, a pause-and-go method can be very effective. After each pop or twitch, pause for a few seconds to allow the lure to settle before continuing the retrieve. This mimics an injured fish that is struggling to get away.
5. Timing and Conditions
Pike are most active during early morning and late evening hours. During these times, they are more likely to hunt near the surface, making topwater lures particularly effective. Overcast days also provide excellent conditions for topwater fishing, as pike are more willing to venture into shallower waters.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using the Wrong Lure for the Conditions
Make sure to choose the right topwater lure based on the water conditions. Poppers work well in calm waters, while walking baits and buzzbaits are better suited for areas with some surface chop. Frog lures are ideal for fishing in thick vegetation, while buzzbaits are great for areas with high surface activity.
2. Retrieving Too Quickly or Slowly
A common mistake is retrieving the lure too quickly or too slowly. Experiment with different retrieve speeds until you find the right pace that entices the pike to strike.
3. Neglecting to Target Key Areas
Always target structures like weed beds, drop-offs, and submerged logs where pike are likely to be hiding. Avoid casting randomly; instead, focus on areas that are known to attract pike.
Conclusion: Unlocking the Potential of Handmade Topwater Lures for Pike in Ponds
Handmade topwater fishing lures are a fantastic way to target pike in ponds, offering both excitement and effectiveness. By understanding the different types of topwater lures, using the right casting and retrieval techniques, and knowing the best conditions for fishing, you can increase your chances of success.
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