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Best Live Bait For Northern Pike (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for the best live bait for northern pike, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. First and foremost, you want to choose a bait that mimics the pike’s natural prey in terms of size, movement, and scent. Some popular options for live bait include large minnows, suckers, and chubs. It’s also important to consider the season and water temperature, as certain bait may be more effective during specific times of the year.

When selecting live bait for northern pike, it’s important to ensure that the bait is healthy and active. Dead or dying bait is unlikely to attract the attention of a hungry pike. Additionally, you should consider the size and strength of your fishing equipment, as larger bait may require heavier gear to handle. Finally, if you’re fishing in murky or stained water, you may want to consider using bait with a strong scent to help attract the pike.

Are you tired of struggling to catch northern pike with artificial lures? Have you considered switching to live bait? If so, it’s important to choose the right bait for the job. So, what’s the best live bait for northern pike? Keep reading to find out. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice just starting out, selecting the right bait can make all the difference in your fishing success. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect bait for your needs. But with a little research and consideration, you’re sure to find the best live bait for northern pike in no time.

10 Best Live Bait For Northern Pike

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for freshwater fishing, specifically targeting pike, musky, and other predatory fish.
2
Ideal for storing and keeping live bait fresh.
3
The product is ideal for retrieving live bait with an integrated lid system and net for easy retrieval.
4
Ideal for catching predator fish such as muskie, bass, northern pike, and cobia in both freshwater and saltwater.
5
Ideal for catching larger fish like musky and lake trout as fishing tackle with multi-jointed swimbaits.
6
This product is ideal for storing live bait with an included portable aerator for maintaining the bait's freshness.
7
It is ideal for catching fish on the surface of the water.
8
Ideal for fishing enthusiasts who want a variety of pre-rigged lures for catching Northern Pike.
9
The product is ideal for catching fish using soft bait that mimics an earthworm's movements.
10
The product is ideal for enhancing the appearance and shine of surfaces like cars, boats, and furniture.
This product is ideal for freshwater fishing, specifically targeting pike, musky, and other predatory fish.
Ideal for storing and keeping live bait fresh.
The product is ideal for retrieving live bait with an integrated lid system and net for easy retrieval.
Ideal for catching predator fish such as muskie, bass, northern pike, and cobia in both freshwater and saltwater.
Ideal for catching larger fish like musky and lake trout as fishing tackle with multi-jointed swimbaits.
This product is ideal for storing live bait with an included portable aerator for maintaining the bait's freshness.
It is ideal for catching fish on the surface of the water.
Ideal for fishing enthusiasts who want a variety of pre-rigged lures for catching Northern Pike.
The product is ideal for catching fish using soft bait that mimics an earthworm's movements.
The product is ideal for enhancing the appearance and shine of surfaces like cars, boats, and furniture.

1. Zabder Soft Bait Lures: The Pike Catcher.

The Pike Musky Dawg Fishing Soft Bait is a highly sought-after lure among Pike and Musky anglers, and for good reason. This soft bait lure comes in four different colors and measures 200mm in length and weighs 45g, making it a substantial addition to any tackle box.

One of the standout features of this lure is its balanced design, which includes a jig head that allows it to swim down at a 45-degree angle on the fall and horizontally on the retrieve. This unique characteristic makes it incredibly versatile and effective in attracting fish in a variety of settings.

The Pike Musky Dawg Fishing Soft Bait is constructed with high-quality materials that are both durable and reliable. Its soft, yet sturdy body is designed to withstand the sharp teeth of Pike and Musky, ensuring that it will last for many fishing trips to come.

This lure is available in four different color variations, each of which is designed to mimic the natural prey of Pike and Musky. Anglers can choose from black, green, brown, and orange, depending on the specific conditions of their fishing environment.

2. Crawlercrib Nightcrawler: Your Go-To Bait Solution.

Introducing the all-purpose worm container that is perfect for keeping your nightcrawler bait lively! This complete container is designed to cater to all your worm keeping needs and is a must-have for all anglers. The container has breathable walls that provide essential air for the crawlers, which makes it an ideal habitat for your worms. This ensures that your worms stay alive and healthy for a longer period.

The container comes with ventilation holes in the cover that provide additional air for the worms. The added air helps prevent the worms from suffocating and ensures that they have a constant supply of oxygen. The single door of the container makes it easy for you to access your bait, and it is also designed to keep your worms secure.

The container comes packed with Good N’ Lively Worm Bedding, which is the perfect bedding material for your worms. This high-quality bedding material ensures that your worms stay healthy and active. Moreover, the container is made in the USA, which ensures that you get a quality product that is durable and long-lasting.

3. Bait Butler – Ultimate Live Bait System

The Bait Butler is an innovative live bait retrieval system that makes fishing a breeze. With its unified lid system designed to fit any standard 5-gallon bucket, this product is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast. The built-in pull rod activated net quickly and efficiently collects bait and brings it to the surface for easy selection, making live bait retrieval a simple and hassle-free process.

The Bait Butler is designed to work with a variety of live bait, from shiners to shrimp, freshwater to saltwater, ice fishing to shore fishing – whatever the live bait bite might require. The product's unified system combines the net, lid, and aerator into one, making it easy to refresh the bucket water without losing any bait. This is a convenient feature that saves time and effort, allowing users to focus on catching their next big fish.

The Bait Butler comes with a Flambeau Portable Aerator 1, which has a 40-hour runtime on (2) D Cell batteries (not included). The flexible air hose and weighted filtration stone help to keep the bait healthy and lively, ensuring that they remain attractive to fish. The product is easy to assemble, and it fits most standard 5-gallon buckets. The premium bait bucket lid features external loops and clips for hanging additional aerators, cup holders, hooks, and gear, making it a versatile addition to any fishing setup.

The Bait Butler is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love to fish. Its features and specifications make it a reliable and efficient live bait retrieval system that is easy to use. The product's design is well thought out, and it is made with high-quality materials that are built to last. With the Bait Butler, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a hassle-free live bait retrieval experience that will help them catch more fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Bait Butler is a must-have item for your fishing gear collection.

4. Delong Animated Swimbaits For Predator Fish

Delong Lures presents a unique and effective fishing lure that is designed to catch predator fish both in saltwater and freshwater. This distinct and lifelike soft fishing lure is handcrafted by expert artisans with years of experience in the fishing industry. The lure is made using high-quality plastic that ensures durability and longevity, thereby making it perfect for long casting, deep sinking, and high catching rates.

The Delong Lures muskie swimbaits are built to perform and designed to be easy to use. It comes with hard wings and fins that cause it to move very erratically. The slightly off-set hooks and stiff design make it easy to work with short, hard jerks. This fishing lure darts up and down and side to side, which is different from any other fishing lure on the market and drives predator fish crazy!

The lure is also anise-scented for maximum effectiveness and features realistic eyes that attract more fish underwater. The fins cause this large musky jerk bait to move erratically, attracting musky and pike while freshwater fishing and cobia while deep-sea fishing.

The three-dimensional structure of top water fishing lures is specifically designed to create more crazy, erratic, and pronounced action underwater. Work the fish fishing bait hard and fast as a jerk bait, and it will work similarly to a top water musky lure that also dives down. This rubber musky bait is not like your typical bull dawg lure, medusa lure, or mizugiwa lure. It produces a different action and presentation that the fish are not used to seeing.

Delong Lures fishing lures swimbaits are available in multiple styles to help you catch big predator fishes like Giant Muskie, pike, big bass, Cobia, Tarpon, Barracuda, King Mackerel, and more. The available styles include Black, Black/Orange, Brooke Trout, FireTiger, Frog, Perch, Walleye, and WhiteTiger saltwater swimbaits. These versatile lures are perfect for your tackle box and make excellent fishing gifts for men and women.

5. Musky & Lake Trout Fishing Swimbaits.

The XFISHMAN Swimbaits are an angler's dream come true. With its extreme realism, the lure boasts intricate gill, fin, and eye detail, and the natural coloration is precisely reproduced, resulting in a lifelike baitfish replica that predator fish simply can't resist. The special printing process transfers an actual image of a live baitfish onto the lure, making it look like a tasty snack to all muskies in the general area.

The Swimbaits offer an excellent performance, armed with two razor-sharp Mustad treble hooks, and a multi-segmented construction with true-to-life detailing that any swimbait enthusiast will appreciate. The lure is built with an ultra-strong technical textile jointing, providing increased flexibility that enhances action and the durability needed for extra-large fish.

The XFISHMAN Swimbaits can be fished very slow, and they swim like a real fish, giving them the ability to catch the biggest fish in the water. If you're chasing double-digit, Lunker Largemouth, Striped Bass, Pike, Muskie, or Trout, Salmon, give them a try on your next outing; you'll be glad you did. The Swimbaits have a life-like 3D design, making them a beautiful and realistic fishing lure that will undoubtedly catch the eye of any fish around.

Whether you retrieve the lure slowly or quickly, it has a unique design that makes it flutter perfectly, providing a natural swimming action that is simply too much for predator fish to resist. The Swimbaits' main purpose is to catch the biggest fish in the water, and it does so with ease. With its lifelike appearance and excellent performance, the XFISHMAN Swimbaits are a must-have for any angler looking to catch the biggest fish out there.

6. Frabill Bait Box With Aerator | Live Bait Storage Cooler With Portable Aerator | 8-Quart Capacity

For over 80 years, Frabill has been a trusted name among anglers who demand quality and reliability in their fishing gear. The Portable Aerator with air hose and air stone is no exception. This indispensable tool is perfect for keeping bait alive and healthy, whether you're fishing in saltwater or freshwater.

The aerator has an 8-quart capacity and is powered by two D batteries (not included). Measuring 15" x 8.5" x 8.5", it's easy to transport and use wherever you need it. The aerator easily clips onto the lid of your bait bucket, instantly transforming the interior into a thriving oxygen-rich environment for your bait to thrive.

The lift-out net liner makes removing your bait simple and easy, while the aerator's saltwater and freshwater testing ensures that it can handle even the toughest fishing conditions. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, the Frabill Portable Aerator with air hose and air stone is an essential tool that will help you catch more fish and keep your bait alive and healthy.

7. Biden Topwater Fishing Lure

Introducing the time-tested and reliable topwater fishing lure that has been around for generations. This classic lure is designed to attract a wide range of fish with its razor-sharp hooks and realistic movement in the water.

Constructed from high-quality materials, this fishing lure is built to last and withstand even the toughest fishing conditions. Its unique design and construction allow it to be used in a variety of water environments, making it a versatile tool in any angler's tackle box.

Unlike other lures on the market, this topwater fishing lure is tried and tested, guaranteeing a successful catch every time. Its sharp hooks ensure that no fish will escape once it's been hooked.

Whether you are an experienced angler or just starting out, this fishing lure is easy to use and suitable for all skill levels. It's perfect for those who want to have some fun while also catching fish.

Looking for a unique and practical gift for the angler in your life? Look no further than this topwater fishing lure. It's a great gag gift that is both fun and useful.

8. Mepps Dressed Lure Assortment Piker Kit (K3d)

The Piker Kit is an excellent choice for anglers looking to catch big pike. With six lures included, this kit provides a variety of options to suit different fishing conditions. Each lure is expertly crafted with solid brass bodies and blades, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance.

One standout lure in this kit is the Mepps #4 Aglia, featuring a red and white blade. This lure is specially designed to attract pike with its eye-catching color and unique blade design. The brass components make it sturdy enough to handle aggressive fish and frequent use.

All of the lures in this kit are crafted with solid brass components, ensuring they can handle the weight and fight of big pike. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, this kit is an excellent investment that will deliver results on every cast.

So if you're looking to up your pike fishing game, look no further than the Piker Kit. With its high-quality components and expert design, it's sure to become a go-to in your tackle box.

9. Berkley Gulp! Earthworm Fishing Soft Bait

The artificial earthworm bait is the ideal substitute for live earthworms, making it a great option for many species of fish. It is durable, easy to maintain, and ready to fish with whenever you are. This bait features Gulp! extreme scent dispersion technology, which helps to attract fish from a distance and improve your chances of a successful catch.

Not only is this bait effective, but it is also environmentally friendly as it is biodegradable. It comes in a natural brown color and measures 4 inches in length. With a weight of 1.1 ounces, it is easy to handle and cast.

This artificial earthworm bait is perfect for anglers who don't want to deal with the hassle of live bait, but still want to catch a variety of fish species. It can be used in both freshwater and saltwater environments, making it a versatile option.

Best Live Bait For Northern Pike FAQs

Are live leeches a good option for catching northern pike?

Live leeches can be a great option for catching northern pike. These fish are known for their voracious appetite and will eat a wide variety of prey, including leeches. Leeches are particularly effective when fished on a slip bobber rig or jighead, as they will wriggle and squirm in the water, attracting the attention of nearby pike.

It's important to note that using live bait comes with some ethical considerations. It's important to handle the leeches carefully and return any unused bait to the water at the end of your fishing trip. Additionally, it's a good idea to check with local regulations to ensure that using live bait is legal in your area.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable bait option for catching northern pike, live leeches can be a great choice, as long as you use them ethically and responsibly.

Are there any specific techniques or tips for using live bait to catch northern pike?

Yes, there are specific techniques and tips for using live bait to catch Northern Pike. Northern Pike are predatory fish and are known to feed on live bait. Here are some tips and techniques that can help you catch Northern Pike using live bait:

1. Use a slip bobber: Slip bobbers allow you to adjust the depth of your bait easily. You can set the depth of your bait to the level where Northern Pike are feeding.

2. Use a steel leader: Northern Pike have sharp teeth that can cut through fishing lines. Using a steel leader can prevent your line from being cut, and you can catch more fish.

3. Use large live bait: Northern Pike prefer large live bait such as suckers, shiners, and chubs. Using larger bait can increase your chances of catching bigger fish.

4. Use a slow retrieve: Northern Pike are known to be slow swimmers, and a slow retrieve can mimic the natural movement of live bait. This can entice the fish to bite.

5. Fish in weed beds: Northern Pike are known to hide in weed beds and wait for prey. Fishing in weed beds can increase your chances of catching Northern Pike.

By using these techniques and tips, you can increase your chances of catching Northern Pike using live bait. Remember to always follow local fishing regulations and practice catch and release to preserve the Northern Pike population.

Can I use live crayfish as bait for northern pike?

Yes, live crayfish can be used as bait for northern pike. Northern pike are opportunistic predators and will eat a variety of prey, including crayfish. In fact, crayfish are a common food source for northern pike in their natural habitat. When using crayfish as bait, it is important to use the correct rigging and presentation techniques to increase your chances of success. One popular method is to rig the live crayfish on a hook and slowly retrieve it across the bottom of the water. This mimics the natural movement of a crayfish and can be very effective in attracting northern pike. It is also important to check your local regulations regarding the use of live bait and any restrictions on the size or number of crayfish that can be used. Overall, using live crayfish as bait for northern pike can be a successful and exciting way to target these predatory fish.

How deep should I fish with live bait for northern pike?

When it comes to fishing for northern pike with live bait, the depth at which you fish can make a big difference in your success. Generally, northern pike can be found in a variety of depths depending on the time of year and water temperature. During the warmer months, they tend to move to deeper water where it is cooler. In the spring and fall, they may be found in shallower water near weed beds or other structures.

A good rule of thumb is to fish at a depth of around 10-15 feet for northern pike, but this can vary depending on the conditions. If you are fishing in a lake with a lot of weed beds, you may want to fish shallower, around 5-10 feet. If the water is very clear, you may need to fish deeper, up to 20-30 feet. It's also important to pay attention to the behavior of the fish and adjust your depth accordingly. If you're not having any luck at one depth, try moving up or down until you find where the fish are feeding.

How should I rig my live bait for northern pike fishing?

When it comes to rigging live bait for northern pike fishing, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, you'll want to use a strong and sharp hook, as pike have tough mouths and can easily shake off a poorly set hook. A size 4/0 or 5/0 hook is a good choice for larger live baits like suckers or chubs.

Next, you'll want to determine the best way to present your live bait. One common approach is to use a slip sinker rig, which allows the pike to take the bait without feeling any resistance. To rig this setup, slide a slip sinker onto your line and tie on a swivel. Then, attach a leader (either wire or fluorocarbon) to the other end of the swivel and tie on your hook.

Another option is to use a bobber rig, which suspends the live bait at a specific depth. To rig this setup, attach a bobber to your line and tie on a leader with your hook and live bait.

In either case, be sure to adjust the depth and position of your bait to find where the pike are feeding. And as always, be patient and ready for a strike at any moment!

Is it better to use small or large live bait for northern pike?

When it comes to using live bait for northern pike, the size of the bait can make a significant difference in your chances of success. Generally, larger live bait such as small to medium-sized fish or even live frogs will attract bigger pike. These predatory fish are known for their voracious appetite and are more likely to go after larger prey. However, smaller live bait such as minnows can also be effective, especially if the water is clear and the pike are more skittish. In such cases, smaller bait can be less intimidating and more natural-looking, making them more appealing to the fish.

Ultimately, the size of the live bait you choose will depend on various factors such as the time of year, water temperature, and the size of the pike in the area. It's always a good idea to experiment with different sizes and types of live bait to see what works best in a particular location. Also, it's important to consider the local regulations regarding the use of live bait and ensure that you are using legal bait sizes.

Should I use live minnows or worms for northern pike fishing?

Both live minnows and worms can be effective for northern pike fishing, but the choice ultimately depends on a few factors.

Firstly, consider the time of year and the water temperature. In colder water, pike tend to be less active and may prefer slower-moving baits like worms. In warmer water, pike may be more aggressive and more likely to strike at faster-moving minnows.

Another factor to consider is the size of the bait. Northern pike have large mouths and can easily swallow bigger baits, so larger minnows may be a better choice than smaller worms.

It's also important to consider the availability of bait in the area you'll be fishing. If live minnows are readily available, they may be the better option. However, if worms are easier to find or more cost-effective, they may be the better choice.

Ultimately, the best bait choice for northern pike fishing will depend on a combination of factors including water temperature, bait availability, and personal preference. It's always a good idea to bring both minnows and worms and switch between them to see what works best on any given day.

What is the best season for using live bait to catch northern pike?

The best season for using live bait to catch northern pike is typically during the spring and fall months. During these seasons, northern pike tend to be more active and feeding aggressively in preparation for the winter months or for spawning. In the spring, northern pike will often move to shallow waters and can be found near weed beds or other areas with cover. Using live bait such as minnows, leeches, or crayfish can be effective in these areas. In the fall, northern pike will begin to feed heavily before the water temperature drops, and live bait can again be a successful tactic. However, it's important to note that the best season for using live bait may vary depending on the location and climate. It's always a good idea to do some research and talk to local experts to determine the best time and tactics for catching northern pike in a specific area.

What is the most effective live bait for catching northern pike?

When it comes to catching northern pike, live bait can be a highly effective option. There are several types of live bait that can work well, but some tend to be more effective than others. One of the most popular and effective types of live bait for northern pike is the large minnow, such as a sucker minnow or a creek chub. These minnows can be hooked through the lips or back and allowed to swim freely, which can attract the attention of nearby pike. Other effective live baits for northern pike include leeches and nightcrawlers. These can be rigged on a hook and allowed to wriggle naturally in the water. When using live bait for northern pike, it's important to use a strong and sharp hook to ensure that the fish can be effectively hooked and brought in. Additionally, it's important to choose the right size and type of bait based on the size and feeding habits of the pike in the area.

What time of day is best for using live bait to catch northern pike?

The best time of day to use live bait for catching northern pike would be early morning or late evening. Generally, northern pike are more active during these times of the day as the water temperature is cooler and the light is low. During these times, northern pike are more likely to move around and feed, making it easier to attract their attention with live bait. However, it is important to note that the behavior of northern pike can vary depending on the location and season. In some cases, they may also be active during midday when the water temperature is warmer. It is always best to do some research on the specific location and species behavior before planning a fishing trip. Ultimately, the best way to increase your chances of catching northern pike using live bait is to be patient, observant, and persistent in your efforts.

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