Unlike big walleye, large pike are less active after dark. If the pike are hitting at dusk, then by all means stick it out until the action stops. Big fish have a tendency not to follow the book, so anything is possible. Prevailing weather conditions can greatly affect pike feeding periods. Similar to open water conditions, large pike are less active under bright skies.
Overcast conditions are by far the most productive periods.
The only time bright skies are productive is under warming trends in late winter. My records have shown that most trophy pike are taken in pre-frontal conditions. Major snow storms can be prime for producing large pike. After the front passes and the temperature drops, expect tough fishing. Often walleye size minnows are most productive.