When to Use Hard-Bodied Lures for Pike
Hard-bodied lures are essential in a pike angler’s tackle box, especially when fishing in open water or shallow areas with plenty of sunlight. These lures, often molded from durable plastic or wood, have a natural buoyancy and structure that mimics live prey effectively. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of conditions but shine brightest in clear water where their detailed design and often vivid colors are fully visible to the pike.
One exceptional hard-bodied lure for pike fishing is the Rapala Otus. This lure combines a hard body with a flexible tail, giving it a realistic and unpredictable movement that entices pike. It’s a perfect choice for colder months when pike become less aggressive, as the Otus can be retrieved slowly, maintaining its lifelike action even at lower speeds. Hard-bodied lures like the Otus are ideal for working through open waters and areas with scattered vegetation, where pike tend to ambush from cover. The combination of the lure’s robust build and flexible movement pattern makes it a solid option in the best lures for pike fishing.
Another popular choice in hard-bodied lures is the Savage Gear 3D Suicide Duck. Modeled after a small duckling, this lure uses realism to provoke a strong reaction from pike. The design is especially effective during the warmer months when pike are more active and more likely to strike at larger prey. The lure’s shape and intricate details make it look almost real as it moves, triggering the pike’s predatory instincts. This lure works best in areas with some surface vegetation and should be retrieved near the surface in shallow to medium-depth water to simulate a duckling in distress. The lifelike appearance and novel design make the Savage Gear 3D Suicide Duck an exceptional hard-bodied choice for pike.
Our Recommended Hard-bodied Lures for Pike
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Fox Rage UV Perch 18cm 46g Size 1
£6.99 Read more -
Fox Rage 14g 10cm Supernatural Wounded Pike
£4.99 Read more -
Fox Rage UV Micro Critter 5cm Loaded 3g
£9.09 Read more -
Korum Floatex Squirmz 5cm – Dark Lord
£5.59 Read more -
Fox Rage UV Perch 14cm/24g Size 2
£5.99 Add to basket -
Berkley PowerBait Pro Pack Jig Minnow Clear Water
£8.99 Add to basket
Understanding Rubber Shads for Pike Fishing
Rubber shads are incredibly effective when targeting pike in deeper water or heavy cover. These soft, flexible lures are known for their natural motion, which resembles the way fish move and respond to currents. Their soft body gives them a more realistic feel when a pike bites down, increasing the chances of a secure hookset. Rubber shads are particularly useful for slow retrieves in colder water, as their subtle, fluid motion can entice pike when they’re less likely to chase fast-moving prey.
A standout in rubber shads is the Fox Rage Replicant series. These lures are designed to closely mimic the look and action of a distressed baitfish, a prime target for pike. The Replicant’s tail creates a fluttering motion that’s hard for pike to resist, making it especially effective in slower, deeper waters where pike are less inclined to move quickly. Rubber shads like the Replicant are versatile; they can be rigged with jig heads or weighted hooks, depending on the depth you need to target. Because of their softer texture, these lures are best used in areas where pike have likely encountered little fishing pressure, as they’ll hold on to the lure longer, increasing the likelihood of a secure hookset.
Rubber shads excel in colder seasons when fish are less active but still hungry. The natural feel and action of shads allow for a slow, enticing presentation that won’t spook wary pike. Using a Fox Rage Replicant in these conditions ensures you’re putting forth one of the best lures for pike fishing, as it combines lifelike action with realistic coloring and patterns.
Our Recommended Rubber Shads for Pike Fishing
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Fox Range Wobble Replicant [ Ultra UV ] 7.5cm
£4.99 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Savage Gear Cannibal Shads – Clearwater Mix
£6.99 – £8.99 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Savage Gear Fat Minnow T-Tail – Dark Water Mix
£12.99 – £16.99 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Savage Gear Fat Minnow T-Tail – Clearwater Mix
£12.99 – £16.99 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Rapala X-RAP Otus 17cm 40g Live Roach
£17.65 Read more -
Fox Rage UV Mini fry 7cm x 6pcs
£5.99 Read more
Choosing the Best Lure for Your Pike Fishing Needs
Each of these lures—whether the hard-bodied Rapala Otus, the unique Savage Gear 3D Suicide Duck, or the Fox Rage Replicant rubber shad—offers distinct advantages for pike fishing. Hard-bodied lures are excellent for clear water and sunny conditions, while rubber shads offer flexibility and realism for deeper, murky waters and colder weather. By incorporating both types of lures in your arsenal, you’ll be prepared for various conditions and able to adapt to pike behavior throughout the seasons.
The best lures for pike fishing ultimately depend on factors like water clarity, temperature, and the fish’s activity level. By experimenting with different styles and paying attention to the conditions, you can make informed choices and maximize your chances of landing a trophy pike.
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