Imagine a flash of green and gold, a sudden, violent strike that jolts your rod. That’s the thrill of hooking a Northern Pike, a toothy predator that commands respect. But getting to that heart-pounding moment can be frustrating. So many lures look good, but which ones actually work for these powerful fish?
Choosing the right lure for pike can feel like a guessing game. You spend your hard-earned money, cast your line again and again, and sometimes… nothing. It’s disheartening when your fishing trip doesn’t bring the results you hoped for. You want to feel confident that the lure in your hand is the one that will tempt that big ol’ pike to bite.
Don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down the best lures for Northern Pike, explaining why they work and when to use them. You’ll learn how to pick lures that attract bites and make your next pike fishing adventure a success. Get ready to cast with confidence!
Our Top 5 Lures For Northern Pike Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Lures For Northern Pike Detailed Reviews
1. Northern-Pike-Lures-Multi-Jointed-Swimbaits-Fishing-Lure 5″ 8″ inch for Musky Lake Trout Fishing Tackle
Rating: 8.5/10
Gear up for your next fishing adventure with the Northern-Pike-Lures-Multi-Jointed-Swimbaits-Fishing-Lure. This lure is designed to fool even the wariest predators in the water. It comes in 5-inch and 8-inch sizes, perfect for chasing big game like Musky, Lake Trout, and more. Get ready to experience some serious action!
What We Like:
- The extreme realism is amazing. It looks just like a real fish, down to the tiny details like gills and eyes.
- It has a fantastic S-curve swimming action. It moves so naturally, it’s irresistible to big fish.
- This lure is built to catch the biggest fish. It’s great for Lunker Largemouth, Striped Bass, Pike, Muskie, Trout, and Salmon.
- It’s super strong! The special jointing makes it flexible and tough enough for giant fish.
- The performance is excellent. It comes with sharp Mustad treble hooks and a design that looks and acts like a real baitfish.
- It’s a life-like 3D lure that swims like a real fish, drawing in muskies from far away.
- You can retrieve it slowly or quickly, and it always flutters perfectly to catch a fish’s eye.
What Could Be Improved:
- The lure’s detailed printing process might be susceptible to scratching over time with heavy use.
- While designed for durability, extreme abuse from very large, toothy fish could eventually impact the joint integrity.
This swimbait offers incredible realism and a lifelike swimming action that will attract the biggest fish. It’s a durable and high-performing lure that’s sure to become a favorite in your tackle box.
2. HALF CRESCEN Fishing Lures Kit for Diving Bass/Trout/Pike with Lifelike Action
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready for your next fishing adventure with the HALF CRESCEN Fishing Lures Kit! This set is designed to help you catch bass, trout, and pike with its lifelike action, making it a fantastic gift for any angler, especially with the 2025 holiday season approaching. It comes in a beautiful gift box, perfect for surprising your fishing buddies.
What We Like:
- Unique Fishing Gift: Each lure is neatly packaged in its own numbered gift box, making it a special and fun present for Christmas.
- Protective Function: The hooks have protective covers. This keeps them sharp and prevents accidental cuts and scratches, so you can fish safely.
- Beautifully Crafted: The fishing bait looks and moves like real bait. This makes it very good at attracting fish.
- Versatile Fishing Lures: The kit includes 15 hard and soft baits. They work for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, with different sizes, shapes, and colors for any situation.
- Durable and Effective: Made with good quality materials, these lures can handle tough fishing trips. The hard baits are strong, and the soft baits feel real to fish, making them want to bite.
What Could Be Improved:
- Color Variation: The colors of the lures may vary, so you might not get exactly what you expect.
This fishing lure kit offers a great combination of safety, quality, and variety. It’s a thoughtful gift that will surely bring joy to any fishing enthusiast.
3. TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures with BKK Hooks
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to make some serious waves with the TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures! These lures are designed to attract big catches like bass, catfish, and pike, whether you’re fishing in fresh or saltwater. Their unique design creates a commotion that fish can’t ignore, making them a must-have for any angler looking to up their game.
What We Like:
- The double-blade design creates a loud sputter and splash, grabbing fish’s attention from afar.
- When a fish bites, the tail closes, making it harder for them to escape.
- Extra weight on the belly helps you cast farther, so you can reach those distant hotspots.
- The realistic look with 3D eyes and hand-painted details makes them look like real fish.
- They are made from strong ABS material and have sharp, rust-proof hooks that can handle tough fights.
- TRUSCEND offers a 12-month warranty and helpful customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the lure is designed to be roll-resistant, some users might find it takes practice to get the perfect retrieve speed.
- The “monster bass” claim might set very high expectations for every single cast.
These TRUSCEND lures are a fantastic tool for any fishing trip, promising exciting top-water action. You’ll be impressed by their performance and the results they bring.
4. FONMANG SWIMPRO Swimbaits Northern Pike Fishing Lures
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to reel in some giants with the FONMANG SWIMPRO Swimbaits! These aren’t your average fishing lures. They’re designed to look and act like real baitfish, making them irresistible to big game fish like bass, pike, and musky. With their lifelike details and awesome swimming action, you’ll be sure to turn heads and get those bites.
What We Like:
- The 3D holographic finish looks super real and flashes to attract fish.
- The controlled sinking helps avoid getting snagged on the bottom.
- They come with strong Mustad hooks that can handle big fish.
- The 8-segment design makes the lure swim very naturally.
- They are a fantastic gift idea for any angler.
- The realistic details are impressive, almost like handmade lures.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2026 model might be harder to find right now.
- While detailed, the “new” designation might mean they are pricier than older models.
These swimbaits offer a realistic and effective fishing experience. They are a smart addition to any angler’s tackle box.
5. TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for more fun on your next family fishing trip with the TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax! This fishing lure is designed to make catching fish easier and more exciting. Its special design creates a “magic noisy turbulent wiggling and vibrating action” that really grabs the attention of fish. Imagine a lure that moves and sounds like a real, injured baitfish – that’s exactly what this swimbait does to trick even the smartest predators. It’s built with a strong Dyneema fiber joint, making it tough enough for many adventures.
What We Like:
- 8 Segment Lifelike Lures: The lure has 8 body parts that bend and move like a real fish swimming. This slow sinking and flexible movement attracts more fish and makes them want to bite.
- High Simulation: It looks incredibly real with 3D eyes and a shiny, pearl-like coating. It’s so lifelike, fish think it’s a real meal.
- Bass Vibration: A built-in rattle makes sounds that attract fish. This sound wave makes fish hungry and encourages them to attack.
- Widely Fishing Species: You can catch many kinds of fish with this lure, like bass, perch, trout, salmon, and more. It works great in both salty ocean water and fresh lakes and rivers, and in any depth of water.
- Relax Family Fishing: This lure is perfect for making fishing a fun and relaxing activity for the whole family.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description doesn’t mention the specific length or weight of the lure, which can be helpful for anglers.
- More details on how to best use the lure for different fishing conditions could be beneficial.
This TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax is a fantastic tool for any angler looking to increase their catch rate and enjoy more successful fishing trips. It’s designed to bring excitement and results, making it a valuable addition to any tackle box.
Catching Giants: Your Northern Pike Lure Buying Guide
Northern pike are powerful predators. They lurk in weeds and ambush their prey. Choosing the right lure makes all the difference. This guide helps you find the best lures for catching these toothy giants.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for pike lures, keep these features in mind.
Size Matters
- Pike love big meals. Look for lures that are at least 6 inches long. Some anglers even use lures over 10 inches.
- Larger lures attract bigger pike. They also help you avoid catching smaller fish by mistake.
Action is Everything
- Lures need to move like real baitfish.
- “Wiggle” or “wobble” is good. This means the lure moves side-to-side in the water.
- Some lures “thump” or “kick.” This creates vibrations that pike can feel.
- Think about how the lure moves when you reel it in.
Color and Flash
- Pike have great eyesight. Bright colors can get their attention.
- Silver, white, and chartreuse are popular choices.
- Natural colors like perch or shad also work well.
- Shiny lures reflect light. This flash attracts fish from far away.
Important Materials
The materials a lure is made from affect how it looks and acts.
Plastics
- Soft plastic lures are very popular. They are flexible and move naturally.
- Many plastic lures mimic baitfish. They have fins and tails that wiggle.
- They are often affordable and come in many colors.
Hard Baits (Plugs)
- These are made of hard plastic, wood, or metal.
- They often have a lip or bill that makes them dive.
- Some hard baits float, while others sink.
- They can be very durable.
Jigs
- Jigs are weighted hooks. They often have a skirt or plastic attached.
- They are versatile and can be used in many ways.
- Jigs can be bounced off the bottom or jigged up and down.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a lure better, while others make it worse.
Good Quality
- Strong hooks are essential. Pike have sharp teeth.
- Durable paint jobs last longer.
- Well-made joints on multi-section lures allow for better movement.
- Secure rigging on soft plastics prevents them from tearing easily.
Lower Quality
- Weak hooks can bend or break.
- Paint that chips off easily looks bad and may scare fish.
- Lures that don’t move right in the water are less effective.
- Soft plastics that tear after just a few catches are frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use a lure matters just as much as the lure itself.
Fishing in Weeds
- Pike love to hide in weeds.
- Weedless lures are designed to avoid snagging.
- Topwater lures work well over weed beds. They create commotion and attract attention.
Open Water Hunting
- In deeper, open water, try diving crankbaits or swimbaits.
- These lures imitate fleeing baitfish.
- Trolling can be very effective in open water.
Retrieval Techniques
- Vary your retrieve speed. Sometimes a slow retrieve works best. Other times, a fast retrieve triggers a strike.
- Experiment with pauses. Pike often strike when a lure stops moving.
- Give your lure a sharp jerk. This can imitate an injured baitfish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Pike Lures
Q: What are the best types of lures for northern pike?
A: Popular choices include large crankbaits, swimbaits, bucktail spinners, and jerkbaits. Soft plastic paddle tails are also very effective.
Q: What size lures should I use for pike?
A: Aim for lures that are at least 6 inches long. Bigger lures often attract bigger pike.
Q: What colors are best for pike lures?
A: Bright colors like silver, white, and chartreuse work well. Natural colors that mimic baitfish, such as perch or shad, are also good.
Q: Should I use lures with a lot of flash?
A: Yes, flash can be very attractive to pike. Shiny lures reflect light and can catch a pike’s eye from a distance.
Q: What makes a lure good quality for pike fishing?
A: High-quality lures have strong hooks, durable paint, and realistic action in the water. They should also be made of sturdy materials.
Q: Are soft plastic lures good for pike?
A: Yes, soft plastic lures are excellent. They offer realistic movement and can be rigged weedlessly.
Q: How do I choose a lure for fishing in weeds?
A: Look for weedless lures or topwater lures that can be fished over weed beds without getting snagged.
Q: What is the best way to retrieve a pike lure?
A: Experiment with different retrieve speeds. Varying your retrieve with pauses and jerks can often trigger a strike.
Q: Do pike prefer lures that move a lot?
A: Yes, pike are attracted to lures that have a strong action, like a good wiggle or wobble, or create vibrations in the water.
Q: Can I use smaller lures for pike?
A: While you can catch pike on smaller lures, larger lures generally attract larger fish and reduce the chances of catching smaller, unwanted species.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.