The Art & History of Pike Fishing

Pike fishing, a practice steeped in tradition and lore, has long been regarded as one of the great pastimes of the working-class world. With it’s roots tracing back centuries, the pursuit intertwines history, craftsmanship, and an enduring relationship between man and nature. For Mamnick, a brand that strives to celebrate British-heritage and craft, the story of pike fishing is a fitting reflection of our brand-values - a timeless dedication to skill and patience. One I have been trying master every winter for the last 5 years. 

Origins & Early Traditions

Pike fishing as we know it today was born in the waterways of Northern Europe, particularly in Britain, Ireland, and Scandinavia. The pike itself—Esox lucius — is one of the most ancient freshwater predators, a species virtually unchanged for millennia. Its predatory instincts and power captured the imagination of early anglers, who sought both sport and sustenance from this formidable fish.

The earliest written accounts of pike fishing appear in medieval texts, such as The Treatyse of Fysshynge wyth an Angle (1496), considered one of the first comprehensive books on fishing. Pike, described as "a devourer of other fish," held a place of prestige. It was a delicacy on the tables of nobles and monks, and catching one was as much an act of ingenuity as well as a test of strength.

Historically, pike fishing tackle was crafted with precision and care, much like the tools and objects that Mamnick reveres. Traditional rods were made of ash or hazel, with lines spun from horsehair or silk. Lures were often hand-crafted, with feathers, metal, and bone used to mimic prey. Each piece of tackle bore the marks of the angler’s hand, making it as personal as the craft itself.

The practice of ‘dead baiting’, of which I am particularly fond of, and live-baiting developed alongside new methods like trolling in the 19th century. These techniques highlighted the angler’s resourcefulness, as they relied not only on tools but on an intimate knowledge of the pike’s habits and habitats. 

The Victorian Era

The Victorian era was a golden age for pike fishing. Advances in tackle design, including the introduction of split-cane rods and improved reels, elevated the sport. Pike fishing gained a reputation as a gentleman’s pursuit, with anglers traveling to renowned waterways like the Norfolk Broads, the Fens, and Scotland’s lochs. 

The practice became steeped in camaraderie and storytelling, with anecdotes of legendary catches shared in angling clubs and country pubs.

It was also during this time that the practice of conservation began to take root. Pike, once overfished in certain regions, were recognised as essential predators within their ecosystems. The Victorian angler, though focused on the thrill of the chase, often released smaller pike to ensure the health of the waters.

Modern Pike Fishing: Tradition Meets Innovation

Today, pike fishing blends tradition with modern innovation. While contemporary rods and reels offer unparalleled performance, the essence of the sport remains unchanged. Anglers still seek the same thrills as their forebears: the strike of a pike, the fight, and the moment of landing a fish (which hopefully is of considerable size!).

Fly fishing for pike, a relatively recent development, exemplifies this marriage of old and new (although I have never tried it). Using handcrafted flies designed to mimic the movement of prey, anglers celebrate a modern iteration of an ancient practice.

A Craft of Patience and Respect

Pike fishing, like all great crafts and other aspects of the sport, demands patience, respect, and an appreciation for the natural world. It teaches us to observe, to adapt, and to find satisfaction not just in the catch, but in the process. Hence one of my favorite quotes - "there is more to fishing than catching fish!"

For those who venture out in search of pike — whether on a misty canal morning or by the glacial waters of a northern lake — it is as much about connection as it is about conquest.

At Mamnick, we believe in the value of stories passed down through generations, of tools made to last, and of experiences that shape who we are. Pike fishing embodies these values, standing as a testament to the enduring beauty of craft and tradition.

Closing Thoughts

To hold a pike rod in hand is to hold history itself. My rods were gifted to me by the person who taught me how to catch fish and it’s this nod to the anglers who came before me that inspires and interests me. It’s nice to explore the waters they cherished, and to the find the fish that have tormented them. Whether you are a seasoned fisherman or someone who feels drawn to the romance of the pursuit, pike fishing offers a glimpse into a world where heritage and the present coexist — a world that I am constantly drawn to and one that Mamnick is proud to celebrate.

Words & Photos by Thom Barnett