Imagine a flash of silver slicing through the water, followed by a powerful tug on your line. That’s the thrill of hooking a Northern Pike, a fierce predator that prowls many lakes and rivers. But getting to that exciting moment can be a challenge. Have you ever stood in the fishing aisle, staring at a wall of colorful lures, and wondered which ones will actually attract a pike’s attention?
Choosing the right lure for Northern Pike can feel overwhelming. There are so many shapes, sizes, and colors! You want to make sure you’re using something effective, but the sheer variety can leave you feeling lost. It’s frustrating to spend time and money on lures that just don’t work.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down the best types of lures for catching Northern Pike. You’ll learn what makes certain lures irresistible to these toothy fish. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the perfect lure for your next fishing trip and be ready to experience that heart-pounding strike.
Our Top 5 Northern Pike Fishing Lures Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Northern Pike Fishing Lures Detailed Reviews
1. Fishing Leaders with Swivels – Carp – Pike – Catfish – Muskie – Walleye – Bass – Mackerel – Snapper
Rating: 8.8/10
Stop losing those big catches! These Fishing Leaders with Swivels are designed to protect your line from sharp teeth and tough fights. They are perfect for a wide range of fish, from freshwater bass to saltwater snapper, and even toothy predators like pike and muskie. Built tough, these leaders help you reel in your prize without worry.
What We Like:
- Versatile for Many Fish: Works great for carp, pike, catfish, muskie, walleye, bass, mackerel, and snapper.
- Prevents Line Breakage: Strong steel leaders stop sharp teeth from cutting your fishing line.
- Multiple Sizes Included: Get 15 leaders in three useful lengths: 5 of each at 12 inches, 9 inches, and 7 inches.
- Durable Steel Construction: These are not flimsy wire leaders; they are high-quality steel built for tough fishing.
- Ready for Any Trip: A perfect addition to any tackle box for both saltwater and freshwater fishing adventures.
- Easy to Attach: Swivels make it simple to connect your hook and line, saving you time and frustration.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Steel Type Not Mentioned: While strong, knowing if it’s stainless steel would be helpful for corrosion resistance.
- No Mention of Breaking Strength: The exact pound test or breaking strength of the leaders isn’t listed, which can be important for very large fish.
This variety pack of fishing leaders with swivels is a smart buy for any angler. They offer reliable protection and versatility, helping you land more fish with confidence.
2. TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to reel in some serious fun with the TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax! This lure is designed to make fishing an exciting adventure, especially for family outings. Its lifelike movements and enticing sounds are perfect for attracting a variety of fish, making every cast a potential catch. It’s built for durability and designed to bring smiles to the faces of anglers, big and small.
What We Like:
- The 9-segment, multi-jointed body creates incredibly realistic swimming actions that fool even the smartest fish.
- It boasts a high simulation design with 3D eyes and a pearl powder coating, making it look just like a real fish.
- The built-in rattle emits a tempting sound that triggers a fish’s feeding instinct.
- It comes with ultra-sharp, custom treble hooks that are strong and resist rust, ensuring a secure catch.
- This lure works for a wide range of fish like bass, pike, trout, and salmon in both saltwater and freshwater.
- It’s great for all water layers, giving you more chances to catch fish.
- The Dyneema fiber joint is super strong, so it can handle tough fights.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for family fishing, some advanced anglers might prefer a slightly more specialized lure for very specific techniques.
- The vibrant colors, while attractive to fish, might be a bit too “loud” for those who prefer a more subtle presentation in certain conditions.
The TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax makes fishing an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add excitement and success to their fishing trips.
3. FONMANG SWIMPRO Swimbaits Northern Pike Fishing Lures
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to reel in the big ones with the FONMANG SWIMPRO Swimbaits! These 6.5-inch glide baits are designed to fool even the most cunning bass, pike, and musky. With a realistic look and smooth action, they’re a must-have for any angler looking to upgrade their tackle box.
What We Like:
- The 3D holographic finish looks just like real fish scales, flashing and reflecting light to grab the attention of hungry predators.
- The pro-tuned weight system helps the lure sink slowly and land head-first, which means fewer snags and more strikes, especially when fishing near the bottom.
- They come with super sharp and strong Mustad treble hooks that are built to handle tough fights from big fish.
- The 8-segment design makes the lure move very naturally in the water, mimicking a real swimming fish.
- These lures are made with tough German ABS plastic and have a flexible tail for amazing lifelike movement.
- The craftsmanship is so good, they look like expensive handmade lures, making them a fantastic gift for any fishing fan.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 2026 new models are exciting, they might have limited availability initially.
- The controlled sink rate is great, but anglers who prefer a faster sink might need to adjust their technique.
These FONMANG SWIMPRO Swimbaits offer incredible realism and performance for their price. They are a fantastic addition to any angler’s collection, promising exciting fishing trips.
4. HENGJIA Fishing Lure for Bass
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking to catch more bass and trout? The HENGJIA Fishing Lure for Bass, Whopper Lure Plopper Lures Kit is designed to do just that. This topwater lure has a special rotating tail that makes a lot of noise and splashing on the water. It looks like a real fish’s tail, which tricks other fish into thinking it’s a meal. This lure works well in both fresh and saltwater, and it’s great for both beginners and experienced fishermen.
What We Like:
- The rotating tail creates a lot of commotion, making it hard for fish to ignore.
- Its design makes it look like a real fish, which helps trick fish into biting.
- Made with strong ABS material and sharp, rust-proof treble hooks for better catching.
- The hooks are super sharp and designed to keep fish from getting away.
- Built-in gravity balls make a unique sound that attracts fish.
- Works in both saltwater and freshwater, making it very versatile.
- Comes with a 12-month quality guarantee and good customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the rotating tail is effective, some anglers might prefer a quieter lure for certain conditions.
- The effectiveness can vary depending on the specific water conditions and the types of fish present.
This HENGJIA lure kit offers a great way to enhance your fishing success. Its realistic design and attractive features make it a valuable addition to any tackle box.
5. Sougayilang Fishing Lures Buzzbait Spinnerbait Topwater Lure for Bass Pike Fishing
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to catch more bass and pike? The Sougayilang Fishing Lures Buzzbait Spinnerbait Topwater Lure is here to help. This set comes with four colorful buzzbaits, each weighing 0.56oz. They feature a cool 40-strand silicone skirt, a strong hook, and realistic 3D eyes to fool even the smartest fish.
What We Like:
- These buzzbaits are super effective at covering lots of water fast. They’re perfect for exploring new fishing spots.
- They create a unique noise that really grabs the attention of bass, even from far away. This makes them great for fishing near weeds or other cover.
- The fast action of these lures can trigger “reaction strikes,” making lethargic fish bite out of instinct.
- They are a tried-and-true topwater lure that consistently helps anglers catch more and bigger fish.
- The bright colors and realistic details help attract fish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While effective, the specific colors in the 4-pack might not be ideal for every single fishing condition.
- The 0.56oz weight might be a bit light for some anglers casting in very windy conditions or needing to cast extra long distances.
This set is a fantastic addition to any angler’s tackle box. Get ready to experience exciting topwater action and boost your catch!
Choosing the Best Northern Pike Lures: A Buyer’s Guide
Northern pike are powerful predators. They love to chase down their meals. Picking the right lure makes your fishing trip more successful. This guide will help you choose the best lures for catching these toothy giants.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for pike lures, keep these important features in mind:
- Size: Pike have big mouths. Lures that are 4 to 12 inches long often work best. Smaller lures might work in colder water or when pike are being picky.
- Action: This is how the lure moves in the water. A lure that wiggles, wobbles, or darts can really grab a pike’s attention. Fast-moving water might need lures with a strong action.
- Color: Bright colors like chartreuse, orange, and white can attract pike. Darker colors like black and purple work well in murky water. Think about the water clarity.
- Depth: Some lures swim near the surface. Others dive deep. You need to match your lure’s depth to where the pike are holding.
Important Materials
Lures are made from different materials. These affect how they look and act.
- Plastic: Soft plastic lures are very popular. They can imitate baitfish, crawfish, and other prey. They are usually flexible and lively in the water.
- Metal: Spinnerbaits and spoons are made of metal. They create flash and vibration. This can trigger a pike’s predatory instinct.
- Wood: Some older-style lures are made of wood. They often have a natural look and feel. They can be a great choice for a classic fishing experience.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A lure’s quality affects its performance and how long it lasts.
- Hooks: Sharp, strong hooks are essential. Pike have hard mouths. Good hooks help you set the hook firmly. Rust-resistant hooks are also a plus.
- Paint and Finish: Lures with durable paint jobs resist chipping and fading. This keeps them looking attractive to fish. A cheap finish can peel off quickly.
- Build Quality: Well-made lures have strong connections between parts. They don’t fall apart easily. They swim true without wobbling strangely.
- Durability: A lure that can withstand repeated strikes from sharp-toothed pike is a good investment. Some materials are tougher than others.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use a lure matters. Different situations call for different lures.
- Beginners: Spinnerbaits and simple crankbaits are easy to use. They don’t require complex retrieves. They often catch fish without much skill.
- Advanced Anglers: Jerkbaits and swimbaits offer more control. They allow for precise presentations. Experienced anglers can make these lures look incredibly lifelike.
- Specific Environments: In weed-choked areas, weedless soft plastics are a must. In open water, a large swimbait can cover more ground. Always think about where the pike are hiding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Pike Lures
Q: What is the best type of lure for northern pike?
A: There isn’t one single “best” lure. It depends on the conditions. However, large spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastic swimbaits are very effective for pike.
Q: What colors should I use for pike lures?
A: Bright colors like chartreuse, orange, and white work well in clear water. In murky water, try darker colors like black, purple, or even firetiger patterns.
Q: How big should my pike lure be?
A: Northern pike have large mouths. Lures between 4 and 12 inches are generally good. You might use smaller lures if the pike are not biting well.
Q: Do I need special lures for weed beds?
A: Yes. Weedless soft plastics are great for fishing in thick weeds. They prevent your lure from getting snagged.
Q: What’s the difference between a crankbait and a jerkbait?
A: Crankbaits are designed to be reeled in steadily. They have a lip that makes them dive. Jerkbaits are worked with a series of twitches and pauses. They create a more erratic action.
Q: How important is the lure’s action?
A: Lure action is very important. It mimics the movement of prey. A good action makes the lure more attractive to a hungry pike.
Q: What material is best for pike lures?
A: Plastic, metal, and wood are all good materials. Soft plastics offer a natural feel. Metal lures provide flash and vibration. Wooden lures can look very realistic.
Q: Should I use live bait or artificial lures for pike?
A: Both can work. Artificial lures offer variety and are easy to carry. Live bait can be very effective, especially for larger pike.
Q: How can I make my lures last longer?
A: Choose lures with durable paint and strong hooks. Keep them clean and store them properly. This helps them resist damage from fish and the elements.
Q: When should I use a deep-diving lure?
A: Use deep-diving lures when you know pike are holding near the bottom or in deeper water. You need to get your lure down to where they are feeding.
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.