Autumn/winter pike on the fly — big fish season. Pike are putting on condition and take large flies confidently. Fish dropping weed edges, deep channels, and structure. Start with a sinking line and move to faster-sinking as the water cools. Biggest pike of the year come in this window.

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.

Keep an eye on changing conditions — wind shifts and cloud breaks can trigger short feeding spells.

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