Early pike

[poorfisherman]

We like to fish shallow coulees right after ice out. What are some opinions about bait placement.  I like to run smelt right on the bottom no weights no floats just a smelt on a quick strike. 

[Water Wolf]

For spring pike I usually fish off shore with a soft plastic lure, spoon or crankbait while keeping it moving slowly foot or two off the bottom.

I break out frozen bait like smelts, herring or minnows when I feel they are around the area but won't go for any thing else.
I usually fish it on a drop shot type rig with a small weight on the bottom and with the bait and hook a foot or so off the bottom.
I use a float to get the rig to stand up off the bottom.

WW

[nightbird]

I put them right on the bottom, also, at this time of year.

[buzzbomb]

For spring pike I usually fish off shore with a soft plastic lure, spoon or crankbait while keeping it moving slowly foot or two off the bottom.

I break out frozen bait like smelts, herring or minnows when I feel they are around the area but won't go for any thing else.
I usually fish it on a drop shot type rig with a small weight on the bottom and with the bait and hook a foot or so off the bottom.
I use a float to get the rig to stand up off the bottom.

WW

You know, Rory, if it turns out there is a God, and he's a jackfish, you're going to be in a can of trouble...

[Water Wolf]

LOL, for sure buzzbomb, but a fair amount of the time I just introduce myself to them and let them go. That must count for something.

WW

[Swaintrain21]

There are a few approaches I take for early spring pike. First is a slip-bobber quickstrike rig. Works well in most places. Second there is the slap-casting giant spoons and inline spinners,  lots of fun. Third there is the surface plugs/cranks, supersized of course.  And last but not least there is the sight fishing with plugs. All are extremely effective if conditions are right.