What is the secret to catching those huge, toothy northern pike when the lake freezes over? Ice fishing for pike offers an exciting challenge, but the real puzzle often starts before you even drill a hole: choosing the right lure. Winter water is cold, and pike can be sluggish. You need something special to trigger their aggressive strike.
Many anglers feel frustrated staring at a tackle box full of gear that just doesn’t seem to work on the ice. Should you use a spoon, a jig, or maybe a lively dead bait presentation? Picking the wrong lure means hours spent shivering without a single bite. It wastes precious time when the bite window is short.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the top lure types that consistently pull pike through the ice. You will learn exactly what makes a lure effective in deep, cold water, helping you confidently select the gear that fills your bucket.
Let’s dive into the best lures for ice fishing pike so you can turn those frustrating days into successful catches!
Top Lures For Ice Fishing Pike Recommendations
No. 1
Northland Fishing Tackle Puppet Minnow Darting Fishing and Ice Fishing Lure for Walleye, Pike, Trout, and Panfish, Glo White, 1/4 Oz, 1/Cd
- An essential lure on the water and under the ice alike, the Northland Fishing Tackle Puppet Minnow will get the job done on just about any species of fish. Built to imitate the action of a darting minnow, this lure darts upward on the lift and swims in a semi-circle during freefall.
- This ice fishing and open water fishing bait is perfect for all species of fish including bull bluegills, perch, walleyes, crappies, pike, and trout year-round. It can be fished in a variety of different ways to get bit in any situation. Rip it up and down vertically, cast it out and pop it back, or slowly raise and lower it to give it a rocking motion that fish can’t resist.
- Northland fishing and ice fishing jigs are made with quality components, so you can fish with confidence no matter what bites. The Puppet Minnow doesn’t miss many fish with two stout jigs on the front and back, plus a treble hook on the bottom. You can fish this jig plain or tip your bottom treble with a minnow head!
- The Puppet Minnow from Northland Fishing Tackle is a lights out lure for anglers everywhere. Available in small ⅛ Oz sizes that can entice panfish all the way up to 1 Oz variations that will seal the deal on pike and lake trout, there’s a Puppet Minnow for any situation. This darting jig is available in five total sizes and fifteen different colors, including UV and Glo options that work well in low light or ice fishing conditions.
- This lure was tested and trusted by the team at Northland Fishing Tackle, and professional anglers across the country. Northland Fishing Tackle has been delivering quality fishing tackle to anglers nationwide for decades. Every Northland Tackle product is designed by fishermen for quality conscious anglers that demand the best in their fishing gear.
No. 2
IRON DECOY Spoon Fishing Lures, 3 Pack Fishing Lures Kit, Casting, Trolling, Jigging, Ice, Lake, River, Stream, Freshwater, Trout, Bass, Walleye, Salmon, Crappie, Pike, Trout, 3-Pack
- Trout 3-Pack Fishing Lures: Spoon lure kit ideal for trout fishing contains three 2" 1/10 oz lures in the following color combinations: Gold/Chartreuse, Silver/Blue/Pink, and Copper/Hot Pink
- Patented Ball Chain Design: Produces incredible lifelike action. Excellent at causing strikes when vertical jigging in open water or ice fishing and incredible consistent action during slow, average, and fast speeds. Can be used to cast, jig or troll.
- High Quality Materials: The solid brass spoons have a jewelry quality finish that resists tarnishing and keeps the spoon looking new for years. Lazer sharp hooks by Eagle Claw will ensure a secure hook set.
- Additional Species: Shape, color, length, and weight was specifically designed for Panfish, Perch, Crappie, Kokanee, Shad, Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Steelhead, Northern Pike, Salmon and Musky
- Great gift for any fishman for Father's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, 4th of July, and Birthday. Iron Decoy fishing lures blend decades of experience and knowledge with countless hours of product development and material testing to create a spoon that produces results like no other and will last for years
No. 3
Northland Fishing Tackle Puppet Minnow Darting Fishing and Ice Fishing Lure for Walleye, Pike, Trout, and Panfish, UV Green Perch, 1/4 Oz, 1/Cd
- An essential lure on the water and under the ice alike, the Northland Fishing Tackle Puppet Minnow will get the job done on just about any species of fish. Built to imitate the action of a darting minnow, this lure darts upward on the lift and swims in a semi-circle during freefall.
- This ice fishing and open water fishing bait is perfect for all species of fish including bull bluegills, perch, walleyes, crappies, pike, and trout year-round. It can be fished in a variety of different ways to get bit in any situation. Rip it up and down vertically, cast it out and pop it back, or slowly raise and lower it to give it a rocking motion that fish can’t resist.
- Northland fishing and ice fishing jigs are made with quality components, so you can fish with confidence no matter what bites. The Puppet Minnow doesn’t miss many fish with two stout jigs on the front and back, plus a treble hook on the bottom. You can fish this jig plain or tip your bottom treble with a minnow head!
- The Puppet Minnow from Northland Fishing Tackle is a lights out lure for anglers everywhere. Available in small ⅛ Oz sizes that can entice panfish all the way up to 1 Oz variations that will seal the deal on pike and lake trout, there’s a Puppet Minnow for any situation. This darting jig is available in five total sizes and fifteen different colors, including UV and Glo options that work well in low light or ice fishing conditions.
- This lure was tested and trusted by the team at Northland Fishing Tackle, and professional anglers across the country. Northland Fishing Tackle has been delivering quality fishing tackle to anglers nationwide for decades. Every Northland Tackle product is designed by fishermen for quality conscious anglers that demand the best in their fishing gear.
No. 4
DAMIDEL 15Pcs Pre-Rigged Jig Head Soft Mini Fishing Lures，2.5"/0.25oz Paddle Tail Swimbaits/3D Eyes,Ice Fishing Jigs Lures Kit,Fishing Bait for Bass,Pike, Bluegill and Sunfish Freshwater Saltwater
- Package includes 15 pcs Pre-Rigged Jig Head Soft Mini Fishing Lures，5 different colors. They come in a variety of color for ideal search a variety of fishes
- 2.5"/0.25oz,Small body, big power. These small fishing lures are also fatally attractive to bass, pike, catfish, bluegill and sunfish. To catch more fish over a wider variety of seasonal,like ice fishing
- This lures are equipped with 3D paddle tail,Having an ideal weight for long casting and slow sinking,, life-like holographic eyes, and Fish scale skin. The bass fishing lure shows perfect kicking action no matter at slow speed or fast speed, resulting in a highly attractive swimming action.
- Made of high quality soft plastic, Such Soft and life-like realistic，very well made lure as for durability and flexability, don't tear easily.
- Widely targeting at predator fishes, such as bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, trout, tuna，etc. Suitable for saltwater and freshwater fishing, wonderful baits for anglers.
No. 5
Fishing Lures Spoon VIB Tail Spinners Bait Metal Sinking Lures Fish Jigs Blade Baits Bass Crankbait Spinner Blade for Bass Fishing Lure Kit with Tackle Box (0.25, Ounces)
- 【Size】: 5pcs in box,0.25oz/7g,there are 5 clours
- 【Superior Long Shot】This blade baits for bass is designed with weight on the head and streamlined shape, so the casting is stable, the position of entering the water is accurate, and this trout lures can search for fish in various water layers
- 【Hight Quality】Fishing lure for bass designed with Strong Blood tank three hooks, the high carbon steel hook which delivers unrivaled sharpness, hook penetration, anti-corrosion and anti-rust, enough to catch more, prevent fish from fleeing
- 【Colorful Design 】5 colors blade spinner spoon fishing lures,Colorful Skin add a reflective effect that attracts fish to attack
- 【Posture】Very sturdy, vibrates alright, wobbles, and dives down good.Deadly lure bass, trout, leukoplakia, northern pike fish and salmon are fatal. Designed for fishermen, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Father's DayVery sturdy, vibrates alright, wobbles, and dives down good.Deadly lure bass, trout, leukoplakia, northern pike fish and salmon are fatal. Designed for fishermen, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Father's Day
No. 6
Ice Fishing Jigs Kit 30Pcs Glow Ice Fishing Lure Set Fishing Spoons for Crappie Sunfish Perch Panfish Walleye Pike Winter Fishing Jigging with Storage Box
- Premium Materials: Ice fishing lures are made of high-quality lead materials and high-carbon steel hooks. Built for harsh winter ice fishing, they stay durable across seasons
- Glow in Dark: Ice fishing jigs have luminous effects, suitable for use in dark water or low-light conditions. (Tips: Under normal circumstances, this ice fishing hook requires exposure to a certain amount of sunlight before its night-glow effect becomes visible)
- 30pcs Ice Fishing Jigs Set: 30Pcs ice fishing jigs set cointains 6 different kinds of shapes fishing jigs, each shape contains different colors
- Vibrant Colors: Fishing jigs have a highly reflective baitfish image and large 3-D eyes. Vibrant colors with a certain sheen can better attract fish
- Various Applications: Ice fishing lure set will attract more species such as crappie, panfish, bluegill, pike, bass and walleye. Whether for personal use or as a gift, this is a great choice
No. 7
Northland Fishing Tackle Puppet Minnow Darting Fishing and Ice Fishing Lure for Walleye, Pike, Trout, and Panfish, UV Firetiger, 1/8 Oz, 1/Cd
- An essential lure on the water and under the ice alike, the Northland Fishing Tackle Puppet Minnow will get the job done on just about any species of fish. Built to imitate the action of a darting minnow, this lure darts upward on the lift and swims in a semi-circle during freefall.
- This ice fishing and open water fishing bait is perfect for all species of fish including bull bluegills, perch, walleyes, crappies, pike, and trout year-round. It can be fished in a variety of different ways to get bit in any situation. Rip it up and down vertically, cast it out and pop it back, or slowly raise and lower it to give it a rocking motion that fish can’t resist.
- Northland fishing and ice fishing jigs are made with quality components, so you can fish with confidence no matter what bites. The Puppet Minnow doesn’t miss many fish with two stout jigs on the front and back, plus a treble hook on the bottom. You can fish this jig plain or tip your bottom treble with a minnow head!
- The Puppet Minnow from Northland Fishing Tackle is a lights out lure for anglers everywhere. Available in small ⅛ Oz sizes that can entice panfish all the way up to 1 Oz variations that will seal the deal on pike and lake trout, there’s a Puppet Minnow for any situation. This darting jig is available in five total sizes and fifteen different colors, including UV and Glo options that work well in low light or ice fishing conditions.
- This lure was tested and trusted by the team at Northland Fishing Tackle, and professional anglers across the country. Northland Fishing Tackle has been delivering quality fishing tackle to anglers nationwide for decades. Every Northland Tackle product is designed by fishermen for quality conscious anglers that demand the best in their fishing gear.
No. 8
Northland Tackle Ice Fishing Thumper Spoon, Stamped Brass Flutter Spoon Ice Fishing Lure for Walleye, Crappie, & More, 10 Colors, Purple Racecar, 1/16 Oz
- The Northland Thumper Spoon is a go-to ice fishing lure when you need more flash, flutter, and finesse. Its thin, bent brass profile and micro flicker blade provide unmatched action, perfect for drawing strikes in tough winter fishing conditions.
- Made from premium stamped brass with strategically placed bends, the Thumper Spoon creates a unique fluttering action on the fall, imitating a wounded baitfish. This irresistible motion attracts fish from both clear and stained waters, increasing your chances of getting bites.
- An added flutter blade delivers extra flash and vibrationoffering a highly effective presentation that triggers aggressive strikes from species like walleye, crappie, perch, bluegill, trout, bass, and more, even in the toughest conditions.
- Available in 10 vibrant match-the-hatch color options, ranging from natural baitfish patterns for clear water to long-lasting glow-in-the-dark designs for nighttime or murky water, this lure allows you to adapt to any fishing scenario with ease.
- Outfitted with ultra-sharp treble hooks, the Thumper Spoon is designed to catch a wide variety of species. Available in four sizes—1/16 oz, 1/8 oz, 3/16 oz, and 1/4 oz—it's perfect for fishing at different depths. Tested and trusted by professional anglers, this lure is built to perform.
Lures for Ice Fishing Pike: Your Complete Buying Guide
Ice fishing for pike is an exciting adventure. Pike are strong fish that love to bite. Choosing the right lure makes all the difference. This guide helps you pick the best lures for catching big northern pike when the water freezes over.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for pike ice lures, look for specific things that help you catch more fish.
Size Matters
- Larger Profiles: Pike are big predators. They usually prefer larger lures that look like a substantial meal. Look for lures that are three inches long or more.
- Vibration and Action: The lure must move attractively in the water. Good lures create wobbles or vibrations that fish feel, even in murky water.
Color and Visibility
- Bright Colors: On sunny days or in clear water, bright colors like chartreuse or fire tiger work well.
- Natural Tones: In dark or deep water, try natural colors that mimic perch or smelt, like silver or white.
Hook Quality
- Sharp, Strong Hooks: Pike have tough mouths. You need very sharp hooks that penetrate easily. Make sure the hooks are strong so they don’t bend when a large pike strikes.
Important Materials in Pike Lures
The material of your lure affects how it sinks, how it looks, and how long it lasts.
Plastics and Soft Baits
- Soft Plastics: These often imitate real baitfish closely. They are flexible and feel natural to the fish.
- Durability: Choose plastics that resist tearing, especially if you are fishing for toothy pike.
Metals
- Lead and Tungsten: These metals help the lure sink fast. Tungsten is denser than lead, so a tungsten lure can be smaller but still sink quickly.
- Finishes: Metal lures often have shiny chrome or painted finishes that reflect light, attracting pike from far away.
Factors Affecting Lure Quality
Not all lures perform the same way. Quality makes a big difference in your success on the ice.
What Improves Quality?
- Good Hardware: Strong split rings and quality swivels prevent the lure from breaking or twisting.
- Realistic Eyes and Details: Lures with realistic eyes and scale patterns often trigger a stronger strike response from pike.
- Balanced Weighting: A well-balanced lure sinks correctly and has an enticing fall rate.
What Reduces Quality?
- Flimsy Components: Cheap wire or weak plastic bodies break easily after catching just one or two fish.
- Dull Hooks: If the hooks are dull right out of the package, you will miss fish, no matter how good the lure looks.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the lure changes what type you should buy. Think about where and how you fish.
Jigging vs. Dead Sticking
- Jigging Lures: These are designed to be actively worked up and down by the angler. Spoon jigs or heavy blade baits are perfect for this active style. You lift them quickly and let them flutter down slowly.
- Dead Stick Lures: These lures sit still, often suspended under a bobber or on a very sensitive rod. Large soft plastic shads or heavy rattle baits often work well when left motionless near the bottom or mid-water.
Water Conditions
- Clear Water: Use smaller, more natural-looking lures. Pike rely more on sight here.
- Murky or Deep Water: Choose lures that create a lot of noise or vibration, like those with rattles or wide, wobbling bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pike Ice Lures
Q: What is the best type of lure to start with for ice fishing pike?
A: Start with a classic, heavy spoon jig. These are versatile, easy to use, and create great flash and wobble when jigged.
Q: Should I use live bait or artificial lures for pike in winter?
A: Artificial lures are great because they last longer and you can fish many spots quickly. However, large live minnows are often the absolute best choice when pike are being very picky.
Q: How deep should I fish my lure?
A: Pike often hang out near the bottom, but they will chase food suspended in the water column. Start near the bottom, then try jigging your lure about 3 to 5 feet above the bottom.
Q: Are brightly colored lures always better?
A: No. Bright colors work best on sunny days or in shallow water. On dark, overcast days, more natural silver or white colors often produce more bites.
Q: How long should my lure be?
A: For average winter pike, aim for lures between 3 and 5 inches long. If you are targeting trophy fish, don’t be afraid to go bigger, maybe up to 7 inches.
Q: Do rattles in a lure help catch pike?
A: Yes, rattles help a lot, especially in stained or dark water. The sound travels well and attracts curious pike when visibility is low.
Q: What is “flutter action”?
A: Flutter action means the lure wobbles slowly and erratically as it falls through the water after you lift and drop it. This slow fall often triggers a strike.
Q: Do I need special hooks for pike lures?
A: You need strong, sharp treble hooks. Some anglers replace the standard hooks with single, heavy-duty hooks to ensure better hooksets on tough jaws.
Q: Can I use the same lures for perch and pike?
A: You can use smaller versions of your pike lures for perch. However, pike lures are usually too large and heavy to effectively target smaller perch.
Q: How often should I change my lure when nothing is biting?
A: If you have not had a bite after 10 to 15 minutes of steady jigging in one spot, change your lure color or switch to a different style (like switching from a spoon to a soft plastic).