Pike & Predator

Predator Nets
Bite Alarms
Swingers
Bobbins
Rod Pods
Banksticks
Rod Rest Heads
Bivvies
Umbrellas
Bed Chairs
Chairs
Pike Rigs
Pike Floats
Deadbait Oils
Treble Hooks
Stingers
Monofilament
Braid
Fluorocarbon
Bombs
Drop Shot Weights
Screw-In Weights
Tools
Crimps
Trace Wire
Float Stoppers
Snap & Swivels
Split Rings
Bait Poppers
Bait Elastic
Rig Sleeves
DeadBaits

Best Seasons for Pike Fishing in Ireland

Pike fishing in Ireland offers peak excitement from October through May. Understanding the seasonal nuances can significantly enhance your fishing success. During wintertime, anglers who favor dead baits often find the most success. In contrast, early spring and autumn are prime seasons for those wielding lures.

Choosing the Right Pike & Predator Rods

When it comes to selecting the perfect fishing rod, consider the following:

  • Dead Bait Fishing Rods: These typically range from 1.75lb to 3lb and measure between 10ft to 12ft. For medium-sized bait, a 2.5lb test curve is sufficient. However, if you're using larger dead baits and require long-distance casting, opt for a rod with a test curve over 3.00lb.

  • Lure Fishing Rods: Lure enthusiasts often prefer rods between 6ft to 10ft in length. The sweet spot for most spinning rods is 7ft to 9ft (220cm to 270cm). Shorter rods are excellent for boat or bank fishing with jerkbaits and minnow-type lures, while longer ones shine when handling swimbaits and soft plastic lures.

These spinning rods are rated based on their casting weight, which indicates the weight of lures they can handle. For instance, a casting weight of 10g to 35g is ideal for medium-sized minnows and crankbaits, while jerkbaits may require a rod with a casting weight of up to 100g, and large swimbaits necessitate 100g and beyond.

Distinguishing Baitcasting and Spinning Rods

Baitcasting rods, also known as trigger rods, are compatible only with baitcasting or multiplier reels. Spinning rods, on the other hand, are the favorites among lure anglers and can be used with spinning reels or fixed spool reels.

Selecting the Right Lure Rod: Spinning or Baitcasting?

The choice between spinning and baitcasting rods depends on the size of the lures:

  • Baitcasting Rods: These excel when using larger lures (60g – 150g). They offer superior control and handling for big lures.

  • Spinning Rods: Generally used with small to medium-sized lures.

Choosing the Ideal Pike & Predator Reels

For pike fishing, you'll encounter two primary types of reels:

  • Fixed Spool or Spinning Reels: Ideal for spinning and dead bait rods.

  • Multiplier or Baitcasting Reels: Suited for rods equipped with trigger grips, known as baitcasting rods.

When focusing on dead bait fishing, consider a baitrunner reel or any carp reel. Reels in the size 6000 range are popular choices among pike anglers employing dead bait tactics.

Selecting the Right Pike & Predator Line

Choose between monofilament and braid lines:

  • Braid Line: Preferred by lure anglers for its thin diameter, extended casting range, and excellent sensitivity due to its minimal stretch properties.

  • Monofilament Line: Still favored, especially for spinners and certain fishing scenarios.

The Importance of Trace & Trace Wire

Traces play a pivotal role in pike fishing:

  • Trace Length: Adjust your trace length based on lure size, typically ranging from 20 to 50cm.

  • Trace Strength: Small to medium-sized lures typically require a trace strength of 8kg to 15kg, while larger lures demand 15kg and above.

Essential Fishing Accessories

  • Landing Net: Investing in a rubberized landing net can prevent treble hooks from getting entangled in the mesh. These nets are generally more robust and reliable, particularly for anglers targeting trophy pike.

  • Forceps & Unhooking Mat: A pair of long-nosed forceps is essential for safely unhooking pikes and removing hooks from their mouths. Additionally, using an unhooking mat ensures the pike remains unharmed during handling.

Duo Hook is your comprehensive resource for all your pike and predator fishing needs. Whether you're gearing up for dead bait fishing, lure action, or any other technique, we're here to equip you for success.