Sight Fishing for Northern Pike with Matt Martin - Smooth River Guiding

#711 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/711

Presented By:  

Pescador on the Fly, TroutRoutes, On DeMark Lodge, Four Wheel Campers

When you think of a predatory fish, what are the first few species that come to mind? For many anglers, Northern Pike is among the most thrilling predators to catch. If fishing for northern pike is on your radar, today’s episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we will break down sight fishing for Northern Pike with Matt Martin of Smooth River Guide. Find out his secrets to targeting big Northern Pike by sight. Here's what you'll learn:

Muskie vs Pike 

Best time to target Northern Pike

Sight Fishing Northern Pike 

How to Find Pike in Shallow Bays

Best Flies (and color) for Northern Pike Fishing 

The perfect strip, and when the fish strike

Episode Chapters with Matt Martin on Sight Fishing for Northern Pike

Matt Martin grew up in Barrie, Ontario, and now lives in Midland, a town on the shores of Georgian Bay. Georgian Bay is known as the 30,000 Islands region. It's the world's largest freshwater archipelago.

Matt guides on over 50 lakes and a dozen rivers, targeting 14 different species. Northern Pike is definitely a top species to target, but it can still vary depending on where you are in the province. 

Here’s a breakdown of the species you can fish in the area: 

Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass  

Northern Pike – Pike season runs from May to June and then again in September.

Walleye

Muskie 

Chinook Salmon

Coho

Rainbow Trout 

Steelhead

Brown Trout 

Muskie vs Pike 

Unlike pike, which are easier to catch, muskies are tough. You might not even see one all day, and the chances of getting a hit are low. Muskies are more challenging to catch because they have a lower population and a bigger home range. 

For those who want to target muskie, Matt recommends booking more than one day to increase your chances.

Best Time to Go Fishing for Northern Pike 

The best time for northern pike fishing is in the spring. The season opens on May 1st in Ontario, and that’s when pike are easiest to catch. Here's why:

In the first week of May, pike can be found in less than two feet of water, sunbathing in sandy bottom bays.

The main lake water is still cold (around 42-43°F), but the back bays warm up to the 50s. Pike use the warmer water to increase their metabolism.

According to Matt, sight fishing for pike is a whole new level of fun. 

Sight Fishing for Northern Pike 

Matt uses an 18-foot Lund Deep V fishing boat for sight fishing. He says it's perfect for the larger lakes, especially when the waves get rough. Matt uses advanced gear like a Minn Kota motor and Garmin LiveScope to spot pike before casting. 

Fishing for Northern Pike in Shallow Bays

In the spring, focus on large, warm bays, especially those near river mouths. These areas draw pike because they offer the perfect hiding spots in weeds or along logs, where pike can ambush prey. Pike are ambush predators, so they wait below the surface to attack.

When fishing for pike, Matt says to keep your fly around 2 to 4 feet above the fish because pike strike from below. 

Best Flies for Fishing Northern Pike 

Matt prefers using bright, easy-to-see flies when fishing for pike, especially in spring. He avoids natural tones and uses colors like white, yellow, or bright pink. 

The key is using flies that mimic the white belly of baitfish. Pike are drawn to movement, so keep that fly above them and use a strip to get their attention.

Stripping Your Fly for Pike

The way you strip your fly is crucial for catching pike. Most strikes happen during the pause between strips, not while you're actively moving the fly. 

For some flies, like the Game Changer, Matt recommends a quick, short strip with a half-second pause to let the fly sink a bit. 

Other flies like the Yard Sale need a longer strip with a hard kick at the end to make the fly wobble like an injured fish.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEUP5cEOB6M

Essential Gear for Catching Big Northern Pike

Pike can be super aggressive, so it’s key to be prepared with the right gear to protect you and the fish. Here are some things to remember when fishing for Northern Pike:  

Use a large, deep net to keep the fish in the water while you unhook it.

Have multiple sets of tools like jaw spreaders and pliers for safe handling.

Protect the fish to make sure they’re safely released after catching them. 

Pike can live up to 20–25 years in the wild. Matt says it’s okay to keep smaller ones (around 27 inches), but those big 40-inch fish should go back in the water.  If you keep one, make sure it’s injured and can’t survive being released.

Matt's Go-to Tips for Fishing for Northern Pike 

Start in Shallow Bays 

Bring Multiple Rods and Lines 

Use 8-10 weight rods and carry lines with different sinking rates: floating, intermediate, type 3, and type 5.

Add a 12-inch section of 20-25 lb bite wire to your leader.

Short Leaders Work Best

Use Durable Pike Lines

 Focus on bays with creeks, green weeds, and the right structure.

Matt’s final advice? Stick with it and have faith—pike are

  Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/711