Late summer presents unique challenges for anglers, as many species shift from typical shoreline structures to deeper water. For veteran guide Dick Grzywinski, known as "the Griz," these conditions have for nine seasons unlocked a prolific northern pike bite often overlooked. Grzywinski's strategy centers on the migratory patterns of panfish, which he notes "Christmas tree up" in deeper water during the hottest periods, drawing predatory pike with them.
Grzywinski's method employs deep-diving crankbaits trolled on lead-core line, a system typically reserved for species like lake trout or salmon. His gear selection involves a substantial trolling rod, configured for the demands of deep-water presentation. The target depth range for this operation is precisely between 17 and 23 feet. To ensure the crankbait maintains its position just above the lakebed without snagging, Grzywinski deploys approximately 90 to 100 feet of line. He advises adjusting line length if the bait contacts structure, noting, "Northerns will always come up after it."
Optimal conditions for this technique align with elevated air and water temperatures, as these factors are crucial in driving the panfish to deeper strata where pike congregate. Grzywinski has recorded days with over 40 pike utilizing this approach, though he cautions that cold fronts can significantly diminish activity.
Consistency in speed is a cornerstone of Grzywinski's approach, maintaining a trolling velocity of 3.5 miles per hour. However, he emphasizes the critical role of dynamic directional changes. Instead of straight-line trolling, Grzywinski advocates for making loops and varying the boat's orientation relative to the wind. This introduces subtle fluctuations in the bait's speed and trajectory, which Grzywinski identifies as a key trigger for strikes. Experimentation with trolling into the wind versus with the wind is also recommended to identify the fish's preference on a given day.
Beyond the immediate capture, Grzywinski offers a practical tip for handling keeper pike. He suggests placing the fish directly into a paper grocery bag, which is then enclosed within a larger garbage bag and stored in a cooler. This technique not only contains the fish but also assists in desliming, simplifying subsequent preparation. Grzywinski attributes his consistent success over the years to "persistence," acknowledging that daily results can fluctuate significantly, from a few fish to dozens, but continuous effort is paramount.
