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Northern pike are aggressive, toothy predators that hit hard, run hard and often strike lures that are far bigger than anything else in the water. Finding the best fishing lures for northern pike means looking for baits that move the right way, hold up to sharp teeth, and cover the depths and cover where pike actually live. This guide ranks ten lures from the list we reviewed, sorted by how well each one fits the core criteria: action and profile, durability against teeth, hook quality, versatility across casting and trolling, and value for the money. Every pick is described from its listing details and from patterns owners commonly report, not from hands-on testing. Use the comparison table to narrow your choice, then read the individual notes for the details that matter most for your water.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| MIZUGIWA 8″/12″ Pike Musky Dawg Soft Plastic Swimbait | Casting and trolling large pike in weedy water | Pre-rigged treble hooks in two sizes |
| Northern Pike Lures Multi-Jointed Swimbaits 5″ 8″ | Anglers wanting multiple sizes in one set | Multi-jointed swimbait body with lifelike swim |
| Realure 3 Pcs Multi Jointed Pike Fishing Lures with Wire Traces | Budget-minded anglers who want a full starter set | Three lures with included wire traces |
| TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures with BKK Hooks | Surface strikes in calm, shallow water | Plopper action with BKK hooks |
| Top Water Fishing Lures, 3-Pcs Topwater Lures 2025 New Wasp Crawl Bait | Covering shallow cover with a walking-style bait | Crawl bait action for a three-lure set |
| 3D Duck Topwater Fishing Lure Yellow Duckling Floating Artificial Bait | Low-light surface fishing and novelty strikes | Floating duckling profile with splashing feet |
| MadBite by KastKing Bladed Jigs Fishing Lures | Vertical and casting work with a bladed flash | Heavy-wire needle point hooks with storage box |
| Spoon Fishing Lures 3-Pack Multi-Species Metal Spoons | Casting, trolling and ice fishing | Metal spoon with vibrating flutter |
| MIZUGIWA 12″ Pike Musky Dawg Soft Plastic Swimbait | Large pike and trophy-sized targets | 12-inch pre-rigged swimbait profile |
| SWIMPRO Swimbaits Northern Pike Fishing Lures 6.5in Glide Bait | Glide and suspend presentations in open water | Holographic bionic finish with glide bait action |
MIZUGIWA 8″/12″ Pike Musky Dawg Soft Plastic Swimbait
MIZUGIWA 8"/12" Pike Musky Dawg Soft Plastic Swimbait – Pre-Rigged Treble Hooks for Northern Pike & Musky Fishing,Freshwater Lure for Trolling in Deep Lakes and Casting in Weedy Rivers
This is a good fit for anglers who want one soft plastic bait that works both for casting along weed edges and for trolling deeper lakes. The pre-rigged design saves setup time, which matters when pike are feeding actively.
Key specs
- Sold in 8-inch and 12-inch sizes
- Soft plastic swimbait body
- Pre-rigged with treble hooks
Pros
- Pre-rigged hooks reduce tackle prep time
- Two sizes allow matching bait size to pike activity
- Suitable for both casting and trolling
Cons
- Soft plastic can tear after repeated pike strikes
- Treble hooks need careful handling when releasing fish
Northern-Pike-Lures-Multi-Jointed-Swimbaits-Fishing-Lure 5″ 8″ inch
Northern-Pike-Lures-Multi-Jointed-Swimbaits-Fishing-Lure 5" 8" inch for Musky Lake Trout Fishing Tackle
Best for anglers who want a range of sizes in a multi-jointed swimbait style, useful when pike switch between small baitfish and larger prey over a single outing.
Key specs
- Listed in 5-inch and 8-inch sizes
- Multi-jointed swimbait body
Pros
- Two sizes cover a useful range of pike feeding moods
- Multi-jointed body gives a natural swimming wobble
- Works for musky and lake trout as well as pike
Cons
- Joints can loosen or separate with heavy use
- Hook quality varies by batch, so checking hooks before use is wise
Realure 3 Pcs Multi Jointed Pike Fishing Lures with Wire Traces
Realure 3 Pcs Multi Jointed Pike Fishing Lures with 15cm 23cm 30cm Wire Traces Pike Lures Sets 3D Artificial Lures with Hooks Slow Sinking Lure with Wobbler for Freshwater Saltwater (H, 12.5cm 17g)
Suited to budget-minded anglers who want a complete starter kit with wire leaders already included, reducing the need to buy separate bite protection.
Key specs
- Three-piece set
- Wire traces listed in 15 cm, 23 cm and 30 cm lengths
- Slow sinking multi-jointed body
Pros
- Wire traces included for bite protection
- Multiple lengths for different water depths
- Slow sinking profile suits pausing presentations
Cons
- Wire traces can kink if not handled carefully
- Lure body is not as durable as premium hard baits
TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures with BKK Hooks
TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures with BKK Hooks, Easy Catch Plopper Lure for Freshwater or Saltwater, Floating Lures for Bass, Pike, Catfish, Surface Wobble PoPobait Bass Baits Fishing Gifts for Men
A good option for anglers who want surface action in calm, shallow water, especially around weed beds and lily pads at dawn and dusk.
Key specs
- Plopper-style topwater design
- BKK hooks
- Floating body
Pros
- BKK hooks are a well-regarded hook brand
- Plopper action creates attention-grabbing surface noise
- Floating design suits shallow presentations
Cons
- Topwater baits are less effective in cold or windy conditions
- Paint finish may chip after many strikes
Top Water Fishing Lures, 3-Pcs Topwater Lures for Bass Walleye Pike
Top Water Fishing Lures, 3-Pcs Topwater Lures for Bass Walleye Pike, 2025 New Wasp Crawl Bait for Freshwater and Saltwater
Best for anglers who want a small set of surface baits to cover shallow cover with a walking-style crawl action.
Key specs
- Three-piece set
- Crawl bait design
- Listed for freshwater and saltwater use
Pros
- Three baits give variety for changing conditions
- Crawl action covers shallow water effectively
- Usable on multiple species
Cons
- Manufacturer detail on hook quality is limited in the listing
- Surface baits need calm or moderate chop to shine
3D Duck Topwater Fishing Lure Yellow Duckling Floating Artificial Bait
1piece 3D Duck Topwater Fishing Lure Yellow Duckling Floating Artificial Bait Plopping and Splashing Feet Hard Fishing Tackle Geer 12cm 28g
A specialty surface bait for anglers who want a novelty profile that works in low light and around weed edges where pike ambush prey.
Key specs
- Floating duckling profile
- Splashing feet action
- Listed at 12 cm and 28 g
Pros
- Unique profile can draw strikes when standard baits are ignored
- Floating design suits surface work
- Listed size is suited to pike
Cons
- Novelty profiles may be less consistent than classic baitfish shapes
- Feet can break off with hard contact
MadBite by KastKing Bladed Jigs Fishing Lures
Multi-Color Kits, Irresistible Vibrating Action, Sticky-Sharp Heavy-Wire Needle Point Hooks, Includes Storage Box MadBite by KastKing Bladed Jigs Fishing Lures for Bass Fishing
Works well for anglers who want a bladed flash presentation for casting and vertical work, and who appreciate a storage box included with the set.
Key specs
- Bladed jig design
- Heavy-wire needle point hooks
- Multi-color kit with storage box
Pros
- Blade adds flash and vibration that pike often respond to
- Heavy-wire hooks resist bending
- Storage box keeps baits organized
Cons
- Bladed jigs can foul in heavy weed cover
- Pike may cut through skirts and trailers, so frequent checks are needed
Spoon Fishing Lures 3-Pack Multi-Species Metal Spoons
Spoon Fishing Lures 3-Pack, Multi-Species Metal Spoons for Trout, Walleye, Bass, Salmon, Pike, Ice Fishing & Trolling, Vibrating Spoon Lure Kit
Best for anglers who want versatile metal spoons for casting, trolling and ice fishing, with a flutter action that suits many species.
Key specs
- Three-pack of metal spoons
- Vibrating flutter action
- Listed for pike, trout, walleye and bass
Pros
- Versatile for casting, trolling and ice fishing
- Metal construction resists teeth better than soft plastic
- Three spoons give a useful starter selection
Cons
- Pike can bite through the split ring, so wire leaders are advisable
- Spoon flutter may be less lifelike than swimbait profiles
MIZUGIWA 12″ Pike Musky Dawg Soft Plastic Swimbait
Pre-Rigged Treble Hooks for Northern Pike & Musky Fishing,Freshwater Lure for Trolling in Deep Lakes,Casting in Weedy Rivers MIZUGIWA 12" Pike Musky Dawg Soft Plastic Swimbait
A strong choice for anglers targeting larger pike and trophy-sized fish in deep lakes or weedy rivers, where a bigger profile can draw a committed strike.
Key specs
- 12-inch soft plastic swimbait
- Pre-rigged treble hooks
- Designed for trolling and casting
Pros
- Large profile suits trophy pike
- Pre-rigged design saves time on the water
- Works in deep lakes and weedy rivers
Cons
- Heavy for light casting rods
- Treble hooks require careful release handling
SWIMPRO Swimbaits Northern Pike Fishing Lures 6.5in Glide Bait
SWIMPRO Swimbaits Northern Pike Fishing Lures,6.5in Glide Bait for Bass Fishing,3PCS Multi Jointed Swim baits, Musky Lures with 3D Holographic Bionic Finish, 2026 New
Good for anglers who want glide and suspend presentations in open water, using a holographic finish and a three-piece set for varied depth work.
Key specs
- 6.5-inch glide bait
- Three-piece set
- 3D holographic bionic finish
Pros
- Glide action covers open-water pike
- Holographic finish adds visual attraction
- Three baits offer variety
Cons
- Finish may scratch with frequent contact against rocks
- Glide baits can be less effective in heavy weed cover
Buying Guide
Selection Criteria
Northern pike hunt with short, explosive strikes and have sharp, backward-facing teeth. A good pike lure needs to handle teeth without shredding, present a profile pike recognize as prey, and cast or troll well in the water you fish. Start by deciding where you fish: weed beds, open lakes, rivers or ice. That choice narrows which lure types make sense before you compare brands.
Important Features
- Action: Swimbaits and glide baits suit open water and retrieves. Spoons flutter well on slow presentations. Topwaters work at dawn, dusk and calm surfaces.
- Hook quality: Heavy-wire hooks and reputable hook brands hold up better than thin wire.
- Tooth protection: Wire leaders or braided steel leaders are standard for pike. Lures that include wire traces save setup time.
- Size: Pike commonly respond to baits from about 5 to 12 inches. Start mid-range and adjust based on bait size in the water.
Specs to Check
- Listed length and weight, which affect casting distance and depth
- Whether hooks are pre-rigged or need to be replaced
- Included accessories such as wire traces or storage boxes
- Material: hard bodies resist teeth better than soft plastic, while soft plastic gives a more natural swim
Choosing by Need
- Weedy shallow water: Topwater plops and crawl baits, used early or late in the day.
- Open deep water: Glide baits and large swimbaits, often trolled or cast with a steady retrieve.
- Trophy pike: Larger swimbaits in the 12-inch range.
- Ice fishing or mixed species: Metal spoons that handle vertical presentations.
- Starter setup: Multi-piece sets with wire traces included.
Things to Watch Out For
- Treble hooks can injure fish and anglers. Use a pair of pliers and handle pike carefully.
- Soft plastic baits often need replacing after repeated bites.
- Bladed and spinner-style lures can foul in heavy vegetation.
- Always use a wire leader or steel leader, since pike will bite through standard monofilament or fluorocarbon.
For general lure selection across species and water types, see How to Choose Fishing Lures for Different Fish and Water. If you want to understand how pike-focused retrieves work, Spinnerbait Fishing Techniques for Bass and Pike covers the basics of pike-friendly presentations. Anglers working with soft baits may find Soft Plastic Fishing Lures Explained useful, and How to Rig Your Tackle for Different Fishing Lures explains leader setup in more detail.
FAQ
What is the best lure color for northern pike?
Pike respond to a wide range of colors. Natural baitfish tones such as silver, white and perch patterns work in clear water, while chartreuse, orange and red tend to show up better in stained or murky water. Match the color to the light and water clarity more than to a fixed rule.
Do I need a wire leader for pike fishing?
Yes. Northern pike have sharp teeth that can cut standard monofilament or fluorocarbon. A wire or steel leader is the standard protection and is worth the small extra setup time.
What size lure should I use for northern pike?
Many anglers start in the 5 to 8 inch range and move up to 10 to 12 inch baits when targeting larger fish. Matching the size of baitfish in your water often works well.
Are topwater lures effective for pike?
They can be, especially at dawn, dusk and on calm days. Pike will strike surface baits in shallow cover, but they are less reliable in cold or windy conditions when fish sit deeper.
How do I remove a treble hook from a pike safely?
Keep the pike in the water as much as possible, use long-nose pliers or a hook remover, and support the fish if you lift it. If you are unsure about safe handling or release practices, check local regulations or ask a local fisheries office for guidance.
Are soft plastic swimbaits durable enough for pike?
Soft plastic baits are fine for casting and trolling, but they tear after repeated strikes. Expect to replace them regularly, and inspect them after each catch.
Can I use these lures for other species?
Many of these baits are listed for multiple species, including musky, walleye, bass and trout. Pike-focused lures often work on other predators, though specific fit depends on the species and water.
Conclusion
For a complete starter setup, the Realure 3-piece set and the spoon 3-pack cover several techniques with included or versatile hardware. Anglers targeting trophy pike in deep water will likely prefer the 12-inch MIZUGIWA swimbait or the SWIMPRO glide bait. For shallow weedy water at dawn and dusk, the TRUSCEND plopper or the three-piece crawl bait set are better matches. Ice anglers and those who fish mixed species will find the metal spoon pack most flexible. Whatever you choose, match the bait to your water type, use a wire leader, and handle treble hooks with care.
