Tamawa Cottages

Pike on a Fly!

Northern Pike – Northern pike is a worthy game fish in area waters. Walleye fisherman may pick up an occasional northern when fishing structure near shore. Casting to shoreline cover like fallen trees or the fishing the weed lines are the most productive spots for northern pike. Daredevils, Mepps spinners and Rapalas are the standard lures. In calm bays, try a surface lure like a crazy-crawler or jitterbug for some thrilling, explosive action.

The many smaller lakes and rivers in the area produce pike in abundance. Try fly-fishing for northerns. Bring heavy gear, because a 25 to 30 inch pike on a fly rod is a real battle. Standard gear is a 9-foot fly rod, 9 to 10 weight fly line, thin steel leaders and “large” streamers. Red/white and yellow/white streamers work good. On calm water, near lily pads, try a large surface popper, but hold your breath and be ready for a large pike to charge out of the water as it lunges for the popper.

Whitefish

Whitefish – Whitefish are occasionally caught by fishermen who are working the submerged structure for walleye. The whitefish are abundant but are rarely fished for in Kabenung Lake. In late June, when the large mayflies or shadflies are hatching, whitefish can be readily taken on fly rods. The mayfly hatch occurs late evening, so be ready for lots of mosquitoes. A 7 to 8 foot fly rod with 4 to 6 weight fly line and a four pound tippet leader will work great, and don’t be surprised if you pick up an occasional walleye.