Northern Pike

Esox lucius

Aggressive predators found in northern Ohio reservoirs and marshes.

Size Limit
24 inches
Daily Bag
2
Season
Year-round
State Record
22 lbs 4 oz
Lake Milton (1991)

Best Months to Fish

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

What to Use

Live Bait & Natural

large minnowssuckersshiners

Overview

Northern pike are found primarily in northeast Ohio’s reservoirs and Lake Erie marshes. Mosquito Creek Lake, Berlin Reservoir, and Portage Lakes hold pike populations. They’re aggressive predators that hit hard and fight dirty — a fun catch on medium-heavy tackle.

More Ohio Fish Species

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Plan Your Northern Pike Trip

Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next northern pike fishing trip in Ohio.

Explore Lakes   Find a Guide   Bait & Tackle

Regulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Ohio DNR regulations before fishing. An Ohio fishing license is required for ages 16+.