If you're a fan of Northern Pike, then you're in luck. This post will tell you all about the best places to find these toothy serpents.

And for some, you absolutely hate these fish.  They eat the baitfish that bass and walleye like to eat, and anglers with nice high end fishing boats don't like them in their boats because of their slime layer that generally requires a you to take a good shower after you catch one.  Some people will just net them and remove the hook while the fish is still in the water and never let it come near the inside of their boat.

Many anglers want to know where to find the best fishing spots. After all, if you can't find the fish, you can't catch them. When it comes to northern pike, there are a few things you need to know in order to increase your chances of success. Here's a quick guide to where these fish like to live and what conditions they prefer.

Habitat Requirements

Northern Pike are freshwater fish that are found in lakes and rivers across North America. They thrive in areas with clear water and plenty of vegetation. Northern Pike prefer habitats with slow-moving or standing waters, such as ponds, marshes, and lakes with weedy shorelines. While they can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures, they prefer waters that are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ideal Conditions

In addition to their preferred habitats, northern pike also have specific environmental conditions that they prefer. For example, these fish like waters that have a high dissolved oxygen content. They also prefer waters with high levels of fertility, as this results in more abundant populations of their favorite food - other fish. In general, northern pike do best in environments that offer a mix of both deep and shallow water areas, as this provides them with plenty of places to hide from predators and ambush their prey.

Some Of The Best Places To Find Northern Pike

1. In shallower water near plants

One of the best places to find northern pike fish is in shallower water near plants. Pike love to lurk in the shadows near plants, waiting to ambush their prey. So, if you're looking to catch a pike, be sure to fish in waters that have plenty of plants.

2. In deeper water near drop-offs

Another great place to find Northern Pike is in deeper water near drop-offs. Pike are ambush predators, so they love hanging out in deep water near drop-offs where they can surprise their prey. If you're looking for pike in deep water, be sure to keep an eye out for drop-offs.  We've had luck on the edge of weedlines, just where 3-4 feet of water dropped to 20 feet, with a basic setup like a sucker minnow and a bobber.

3. Near baitfish aggregations

Pike are also drawn to baitfish aggregations. Baitfish are small fishes that schools of larger fishes like to eat. Pike will often hang around baitfish aggregations because they're an easy food source. So, if you're looking for Pike, be sure to look for schooling baitfish as well.

Where Do Northern Pike Like To Live - The Last Cast

Now that you know a little bit more about where Northern Pike like to live, you can start planning your next fishing trip.  Keep in mind their preferred habitats and environmental conditions, and you'll be well on your way to success. Catching these dinosaurs can be a huge thrill - just keep your hands and feet away from their mouth!

If you need suggestions on what lures to use for Northern Pike, click the button below and check our review of the 5 Best Lures To Catch Mean Gangster Pike here:

Cheers to the outdoors,
Bert