Northern pike are not fall spawners. They are the first spring spawners. Males typically move from the main lake or river before ice-out in response to the occasional winter thaw and spawning usually takes place in less than 18 inches of water. Because of their natural spawning needs, these game fish are dependent on spring run offs to coves and bays or flooding in wetlands. Male northerns seldom exceed 30 inches in length, while females can grow to 50 inches long.
Nature demands survival of the fittest, so ice-out feeding frenzies take place all across the state.
Try northern pike angling. You will have a day to remember and a positive entry in your journal. Also you won't be guilty of blasphemy and won't be excommunicated.