Winter pike fishing: how to catch in December, January and February

Why winter is big-pike season

In winter the pike are heavy with spawn and hunt efficiently: little movement, big prey. The weed has died back, the water is clear and the fish are concentrated on the deeper parts and their edges. That makes winter the season for the metre pike — if you're willing to fish slowly and dress warmly.

Where are the pike in winter?

• Transitions from shallow to deep — the classic winter spot. Fish the slope from top to bottom.
• Deep channels and basins — in severe cold the fish drop to the deepest water; fish just above the bottom.
• Small harbours and sheltered ditches — baitfish gather here in winter, and the pike lie next to them.
• Sunny reed edges in the afternoon — on a bright day the shallow water warms a fraction and the fish come up. The hour before 17:00 is gold then.

Bait and presentation

1. Dead bait — a dead roach, sprat or piece of mackerel under a float or on a ledger rig along the bottom. The most reliable winter technique: all you need is patience.
2. Big shads (15–25 cm) on a light jig head, fished extremely slowly with long pauses. The take often comes on the drop.
3. Jerkbaits and swimbaits in the afternoon over the shallower parts, with long stops.

Fish a sturdy rod (50–120 grams), braid and always a wire or titanium trace. Smaller barbless hooks make unhooking in the cold easier.

Releasing in cold water

Cold water is rich in oxygen, so a winter pike recovers well — provided you handle it quickly. Unhook on a wet mat, take your photo within seconds and hold the fish horizontally in the water until it swims off by itself. Under the VISpas you always release pike; from 1 March until the last Saturday of May the closed season applies as well.

Clothing and safety

Three layers, waterproof outer layer, warm feet and gloves — read weather & clothing on the water. Life jackets are on board; with ice or wind force 6+ we don't go out. For everything you need on board: tips for first-time boat fishing.

Hiring a fishing boat in winter

From October to February we hire out our aluminium fishing boats for €150 per day (09:00–17:00), fuel included and no licence needed. Check availability — winter weekends fill up fast.