Pike are nasty

[Further North]

5 hours ago, MN_Bassmaster78 said:

The fluoro leader probably works well for spinnerbaits + chatterbaits. Idk about topwater though

Take a look at the lighter weight Knot-2-Kinky.

Tie it into the main line with an Alberto knot, then perfection loop your favorite snap or swivel snap into the business end.

One thing: Do not try to pick up a fish with any Knot-2-Kinky under about 25#.  It can slice you like a knife.  You can guess how I know.

12 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

Fish Grippers - never go fishing without them.

 

Even if it's panfishing from the shore - you never know when a pike is going to sneak up on you.

I'm not telling anyone else to not use them, but I dislike those things intensely.

I've seen people damage jaws badly, particularly on big fish they can't control.

10 minutes ago, desmobob said:

 

Fish grippers are no match for a big thrashing pike.  I graduated to a Bogagrip.

Spot WRT grippers...I don't even  like the Bogas.  I have a big net, and use it.  I also de-barb my hooks so I can usually get them out without taking the Esox out of the water.

I understand everyone's not going to do it that way, but I've found it's what works best for me.

8 minutes ago, desmobob said:

 

I keep a couple of lures pre-rigged with it.  (And a couple of flies in my saltwater fly box, for when the bluefish show up.  Bluefish are to striper fishermen what pike are to bass fishermen.)

All my pike/musky fly rods are rigged with 3 ft. of 50# Maxima Ultragreen tied direct to about a foot of wire.  The wire varies, depending on what kind of fly I'm tossing, but it's usually Tyger Leader (until I run out.  I have a few set up with Knot-2-Kinky, but it's kind of a PITA to get tied into the Maxima well.