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Northern Pike
Esox lucius
20–30 inches
Typical Length
2–8 lbs
Typical Weight
Mid-May (same as walleye)
Season Opens
27%
% of MN Lakes
The northern pike is an aggressive predator found in nearly every Minnesota lake. Known for explosive strikes and toothy grins, pike provide exciting action for anglers of all skill levels.
Habitat
Pike favor shallow, weedy bays and shoreline areas with abundant vegetation. Cabbage weeds, lily pads, and reed beds are prime pike habitat. Larger fish often patrol deeper weed edges and points.
When to Fish
Best months: May, June, September, October
Season opens: Mid-May (same as walleye)
Pike hit hard right after ice-out when they're in the shallows. Fall pike fishing near deep weed edges can produce trophy fish. A wire or heavy fluorocarbon leader is essential.
Did You Know?
- Pike can strike at speeds up to 10 body lengths per second — among the fastest freshwater ambush predators.
- They have over 700 teeth that are constantly being replaced throughout their lives.
- Northern pike are found further north than any other freshwater gamefish, thriving above the Arctic Circle.
Minnesota State Record
45 lbs 12 oz (Basswood Lake, 1929)
Lakes with Northern Pike near you
951 Minnesota lakes have Northern Pike on record. Find the closest ones to you.
Northern Pike (Esox lucius) is a gamefish species found in Minnesota lakes and rivers. DNR surveys have documented northern pike in 951 Minnesota lakes. The Minnesota state record is 45 lbs 12 oz (Basswood Lake, 1929).