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Simple tips to improve your lure fishing

Ringing the changes can make a big difference when targeting pike and perch.

by Tony Grigorjevs |

Updated on29th January 2026 at 12.47pm

Now that the predator fishing season is underway, there will be some fantastic pike and perch sport to be had over the next few months.

Lure fishing is one of the most exciting and effective tactics to keep the bites coming – but there is a little bit more to the approach than simply flinging a piece of rubber or plastic out before randomly retrieving it.

Just like the best match and specimen anglers, the most successful lure anglers make a point of paying attention to the seemingly minute details that make all the difference.

Adopt a mindset to work hard from start to finish on each and every session, and you’ll boost your catches no end this winter.

IN OUR BUYERS GUIDE WE HAVE SELECTED THE BEST LURE FISHING RODS.

Search methodically

A lot of anglers search their swim without much of a plan, casting into random areas without analysing what the spot provides. If you’re going to have just a handful of casts where you are stood, look to drop your lure in undisturbed water out of the cold breeze, ideally close to any structure or on top of any noticeably deeper holes.

TAKE A GLANCE AT OUR PICK OF THE BEST PERCH FISHING LURES.

Vary the retrieve

The style of retrieve can have a big impact on success. What stimulates a pike or perch into wanting to strike will frequently change and so, in the early stages of a session, you should vary the speed. Try erratic hops, sharp lifts and double lifts with your rod-tip. Once you find what works, you can concentrate on that style until the action slows.

THE BEST SPINNING REELS HAVE FAST RETRIEVAL RATE.

Track your success

It’s important to make a note of the tactics you use on each session, because this will help you to spot patterns that will speed up the process of putting a bend in the rod next time you’re out on the bank. Write down both the weather and venue conditions, the lures that were successful and the terminal tackle that you relied on. This can be in a physical notebook but there are some good smartphone apps you can use.

THE BEST PIKE FISHING RODS ARE BUILT TO TAME THESE BIG PREDATORS.

Taking Notes in Journal; Shutterstock ID 565115356; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Rotate combinations

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of different types of lure on the market, and it pays to carry a varied selection with you each time you get on the bank. Water clarity, and how much sunlight there is, can dictate what works best, as different sizes and colours of lures will work best in conditions which may vary according to the time of day.

HERE ARE THE BEST FISHING LURES THAT ARE IRRESISTIBLE TO PREDATORS.

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