These big pike are hard on tackle. Their razor-sharp teeth tear up lures. Wire leaders are a must. I had one come wire leader come apart when a big fish rolled like an alligator and wrapped the line around himself. Buy good ones. Baitcasting and spinning tackle both work, as long as the line is at least 20-pound test, the reels have smooth drags, and the rods have plenty of backbone. Dunlop says the number one mistake guys make up here is using tackle that is too light.