Other top producers include jerkbaits, jigs and crankbaits. And fly fishermen are discovering that big, bushy streamers and divers can be very effective.

Live bait--chiefly big suckers--also work well on pike.

There's no need for a subtle presentation in pike fishing. Most anglers use heavy line (12 - to 30 - pound test) along with a heavy wire leader.

Pike are strong fighters, usually making several powerful runs before coming to the net. They tend to fight deep but, on occasion, a hooked pike will make a spectacular jump.

Because of the pike's aggressive nature, catch - and - release is important. Otherwise, pike are quickly removed from the population before they reach a decent size. In heavily fished pike waters, anglers have trouble catching anything but small, 1 - to 2 - pound "hammerhandles."

Be sure to use a wire leader when fishing pike, muskies or pickerel. All members of the pike family have sharp - edged teeth that will easily shear off plain mono or even superline.

Use a "quick - strike" rig when fishing pike with large baitfish. This way, when you get a bite, you can set the hook right away rather than waiting for the fish to swallow the bait.

Pike are sight feeders, so it pays to use flashy baits such as spoons and bucktail spinners. The flash will catch their attention from a distance, drawing them to your lure.

Before attempting to remove a hook from a pike's toothy mouth, open it with a jaw spreader.