Summer pike on the fly. Fish early (first light) and late (last hour) when pike push shallow to feed. Topwater is king — poppers and gurglers over weed beds. Mid-day fish hold deep in weed channels. Take a break during the heat of the day. Use a 9-10wt rod with a stiff butt for turning big fish away from weed. Welfare note: Water at 20°C — above the pike caution line (19°C). Fish dawn or dusk only. Land it fast, wet hands, no air shots.

If the main plan is not working, switch to a smaller, more imitative pattern fished slower and deeper. A change of drift angle can also make a difference.

Evening tends to be the best period in summer — stay late if you can for a sedge or spinner fall.

A gentle ripple is ideal for drifting — broadside drift covering the wind lanes should be productive.