Fly Fishing for Pike - Tips & Tricks to Catch More Pike

Pike fly fishing is not just for the pros. With the right gear, even new anglers can become successful at it. Want to give it a go? In this blog, we’ll talk about some tips and tricks that can help you snag a ferocious beast with the right pike flies!

Pike are fierce fighters, and they will take you for a ride. You need to gear up when fishing pike. Your trout set up is just not going to get it done here.

Pike rod

When selecting a rod for pike fly fishing, always go for a heavy, sturdy, high-quality 8 to 10 weight rod. 

This should provide enough power to help you fight the fish and turn over the large flies used for this type of fishing. 

Some anglers prefer a mid-range 7-weight rod, and this could be a good option if you want something versatile that can also be used for bass fly fishing. RiverBum carries a wide range of pike fly rods to suit your needs. 

If you have some decent casting skill, the TFO Blue Ribbon in 8wt would be my rod of choice. 

Need a little more forgiveness? Try the Axiom II

Pike reel

Your pike fly reel needs to be strong enough to handle big fish. I like to go large arbor here. 

The bigger arbor helps balance out the heavier rod weight. 

This also gives you more backing, and trust me, you’re going to need it!

Pike line

Seasoned anglers recommend having a variety of pike fly fishing lines for versatility; preferably in different densities, so you can get the fly down to the best depth depending on the situation.

A floating line, a sink tip line and clear intermediate line. 

You can also consider a full sinking line so you’re ready to fish throughout the entire column. Don’t buy several reals though. 

Buy one reel with spare spools and save yourself some money.

Pike flies

RiverBum also offers a great selection of eye-catching patterns that are large and flashy enough to whet the pike’s appetite. 

Consider getting a range of flies, including DriCast Rude Awakening, Hodag, and Demonic. 

These flies are engineered for Pike and Musky fishing. These flies shed water quickly in your back cast, hence the name DriCast. They are durable, easy to cast, and very attractive to Pike and Musky.

Other flies to consider putting in your arsenal are Clousers, Zonkers, Skully Buggers, and my favorite, The Candyman. We literally have hundreds of patterns. Just go to our Pike Fly section on the website and you are certain to find patterns you like.