Choose the Right Shad and Mount
For catching pike, the choice of shad size is crucial. Shads from 14 cm and larger are ideal because pike can handle large prey. Combine your shad with a suitable jighead that doesn't interfere with natural movement and add a stinger if necessary for extra hooking opportunities. A correctly mounted shad significantly increases your success while casting or trolling.
Colour and Action for Optimal Results
The colour of your shad can be crucial depending on water conditions. In clear water, natural colours work well, while in murky water, brightly coloured shads can attract attention. Adjusting speed and pauses while reeling in your shad can cause different actions that can entice the wily pike to take a bite.
Techniques for Fishing with Shads
Drag fishing (trolling) with larger shads is an effective method for luring pike. This technique uses water resistance to make the tail of the shad move enticingly. For casting, smaller or medium shads with jigheads offer the opportunity to fish out specific spots accurately. Experiment with different speeds and movements to discover what works best on your fishing day.