Pike Attractant

Pike Attractants: Are They Worth Using?

When the water starts to cool and pike fishing comes into its own, many anglers turn to deadbaits and look for ways to make their presentation more attractive to a pike.

One option is fish oil or a dedicated pike attractant.

Why use an attractant?

Pike are predators that use several senses when hunting, including sight and their ability to detect movement and chemical cues in the water. Adding an attractant to a deadbait can introduce an additional scent trail around your bait.

Fish oils are particularly popular because they can disperse through the water, potentially helping create an area of scent around the deadbait.

That doesn’t mean an attractant is a magic ingredient that guarantees a bite. Pike can be caught without one, and factors such as location, water conditions, bait choice and presentation remain far more important.

How can you use one?

There are several ways anglers incorporate attractants into deadbait fishing. Depending on the product, you might:

• Apply a small amount directly to the deadbait.
• Inject it into the bait.
• Reapply it during a session if required.
• Use an oil designed to remain liquid in colder water.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid using more than necessary. The idea is to enhance your presentation rather than completely overwhelm it.

Float & Fly tip

If you’re trying an attractant for the first time, keep things simple. Fish one rod with your normal deadbait presentation and experiment with an attractant on another where your rules and setup allow it.

That gives you something much more useful than simply assuming an attractant will make a difference: you can compare what happens on the bank.

And remember, always check the rules of the water you’re fishing before using oils, attractants or additives.

Float & Fly Approved

We’re always looking at products that could be useful to UK anglers. PikePro Winterized Oil is one option designed specifically for predator fishing and deadbaits, with several fish-based flavours available.