Dead baiting for Pike in winter | Fishing in Tackle

Deadbaiting for pike in rivers during the winter can be a highly effective method of catching these predatory fish. Not only do pike tend to be more active and hungry during the colder months, but using a deadbait can also be a natural and subtle way of presenting your bait to the fish.

However, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind when deadbaiting for pike in rivers during the winter. In this blog, we'll go over the basics of deadbaiting for pike, as well as some tips and tricks to help you catch more fish.

What are deadbaits?

As the name suggests, deadbaits are bait that is no longer alive. This can include a variety of different types of baitfish, such as roach, dace, or skimmers, as well as sea dead baits including smelts, mackerel, herring, sardines and sprats. Deadbaits are typically used in a static or slow-moving presentation, where the bait is presented to the fish in a natural and lifelike manner.

How to rig a deadbait for pike

There are a few different ways to rig a deadbait for pike, depending on the type of bait you're using and the type of presentation you want to make. Here are a few common methods:

Single hook rig: This is the simplest way to rig a deadbait for pike. Simply thread the hook through the baitfish, making sure to leave the hook point exposed. You can use a small split shot or sinker to help keep the bait in place if necessary.

Treble hook rig: A treble hook rig involves attaching a treble hook to the baitfish, usually one on the nose and two on the tail. This can help increase hook-up rates and keep the fish from spitting the bait. A pair of trebles fished with one hooked through the tail of the bait and one half way up the flank is the most widely used rig for pike fishing.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when deadbaiting for pike in rivers during the winter:

• Use the right size bait: It's important to use a bait that is the right size for the pike you're targeting. In general, you'll want to use a larger bait for bigger pike, and a smaller bait for smaller pike. Ask yourself, what size are the fish likely to be in front of me? If the biggest fish is going to 10lb then using an entire large mackerel may be a little overkill for the situation.

• Use a scent: Adding a scent to your bait can help attract pike and entice them to bite. There are a variety of scents on the market specifically designed for pike fishing, or you can use natural scents like anise or garlic.

• Use a wire trace: When deadbaiting for pike, it is paramount that you use a wire trace to help prevent the pike from biting through your line. This is especially important if you're using a large or aggressive bait. Wire traces should be a minimum of 18 inches to ensure there is plenty of space between the bait and the line.

• Vary your presentation: Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of presentations to see what works best. Sometimes unconventional presentations can look the best in the flow of a river.

One of the best places to fish for pike with deadbaits in rivers is along weed beds and other structures, such as fallen trees and undercut banks. These areas provide cover for the pike and can be prime ambush spots for the fish to wait for prey. When fishing along these structures, it's important to pay attention to your line and bait, as pike can easily become snagged on underwater debris.

Overall, the key to success when targeting pike in rivers is to stay mobile and constantly be on the lookout for new areas to fish. By keeping your options open and trying different techniques and baits, you can increase your chances of finding and catching these elusive predatory fish.