Episode Details

#711 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/711

Presented By:

Pescador on the Fly, TroutRoutes, On DeMark Lodge, Four Wheel Campers

When you think of a predatory fish, what are the first few species that come to mind? For many anglers, Northern Pike is among the most thrilling predators to catch. If fishing for northern pike is on your radar, today's episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we will break down sight fishing for Northern Pike with Matt Martin of Smooth River Guide. Find out his secrets to targeting big Northern Pike by sight. Here's what you'll learn:

Muskie vs Pike

Best time to target Northern Pike

Sight Fishing Northern Pike

How to Find Pike in Shallow Bays

Best Flies (and color) for Northern Pike Fishing

The perfect strip, and when the fish strike

Episode Chapters with Matt Martin on Sight Fishing for Northern Pike

Matt Martin grew up in Barrie, Ontario, and now lives in Midland, a town on the shores of Georgian Bay. Georgian Bay is known as the 30,000 Islands region. It's the world's largest freshwater archipelago.

Matt guides on over 50 lakes and a dozen rivers, targeting 14 different species. Northern Pike is definitely a top species to target, but it can still vary depending on where you are in the province.

Here's a breakdown of the species you can fish in the area:

Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass

Northern Pike – Pike season runs from May to June and then again in September.

Walleye

Muskie

Chinook Salmon

Coho

Rainbow Trout

Steelhead

Brown Trout

Muskie vs Pike

Unlike pike, which are easier to catch, muskies are tough. You might not even see one all day, and the chances of getting a hit are low. Muskies are more challenging to catch because they have a lower population and a bigger home range.

For those who want to target muskie, Matt recommends booking more than one day to increase your chances.

Best Time to Go Fishing for Northern Pike

The best time for northern pike fishing is in the spring. The season opens on May 1st in Ontario, and that's when pike are easiest to catch. Here's why:

In the first week of May, pike can be found in less than two feet of water, sunbathing in sandy bottom bays.

The main lake water is still cold (around 42-43°F), but the back bays warm up to the 50s. Pike use the warmer water to increase their metabolism.

According to Matt, sight fishing for pike is a whole new level of fun.

Sight Fishing for Northern Pike

Matt uses an 18-foot Lund Deep V fishing boat for sight fishing. He says it's perfect for the larger lakes, especially when the waves get rough. Matt uses advanced gear like a Minn Kota motor and Garmin LiveScope to spot pike before casting.

Fishing for Northern Pike in Shallow Bays

In the spring, focus on large, warm bays, especially those near river mouths. These areas draw pike because they offer the perfect hiding spots in weeds or along logs, where pike can ambush prey. Pike are ambush predators, so they wait below the surface to attack.

When fishing for pike, Matt says to keep your fly around 2 to 4 feet above the fish because pike strike from below.

Best Flies for Fishing Northern Pike

Matt prefers using bright, easy-to-see flies when fishing for pike, especially in spring. He avoids natural tones and uses colors like white, yellow, or bright pink.

The key is using flies that mimic the white belly of baitfish. Pike are drawn to move