Another deadly method is the static deadbait. It doesn't seem to matter what you use for bait. Sardines and sprats have both worked well, as have trout. The method you use to present the deadbait will be dictated by the current between your bank and the area you are fishing. VB doubles are excellent in small soft baits, though you may have to tie them on with cotton to prevent the bait coming off when you reel in.
Bite indication can be tricky.
It is often impractical to use a float with a legered bait, though where possible, the overdepth slider probably provides the best indication of all. The current may preclude the use of a bobbin, but where conditions allow, bobbins or drop off indicators can be used. At times the current may be so strong that all you can do is to prop the rod up beachcaster style, and watch the tip. Fortuneately, these weir pike don't seem as fussy about resistance as some of their stillwater brethen, and this rather primitive method of bite indication works well enough. I use the word spinning loosely, to cover the use of both artificial and natural lures.