Updated: May 2025
Looking to target pike in the York area this May? You’re in luck — May is one of the most active months for post-spawn pike across Yorkshire’s rivers, canals, and stillwaters.
In this guide, you’ll find the best local spots, proven tactics, and seasonal tips to help you land more predators near York this spring.
📍 Where to Fish for Pike Near York (May 2025)
🗺️ 1. River Ouse (within York)
- Why it’s good: Deep, slow stretches and slack water near bridges attract resting and hunting pike.
- Hot zones: Clifton Bridge, Millennium Bridge, and Rawcliffe area
- Tip: Cast soft jerkbaits near reed beds and flow breaks.
🛶 2. River Foss (urban feeder river)
- Why it’s good: Quiet, narrow, and overlooked — great for stalking pike in close quarters.
- Best lures: Small paddle tails, spinnerbaits
- Tip: Keep moving. Focus on shaded areas under trees and culverts.
🌲 3. Selby Canal (20 min from York)
- Why it’s good: Narrow, predator-rich water.
- Access: Public towpath access along most of the stretch.
- Tip: Try early mornings with noisy lures near moored boats.
💧 4. Pocklington Canal (East of York)
- Why it’s good: Clear water, ambush-friendly weed beds.
- Ideal for: Light tackle pike hunting.
- Bait: Spinnerbaits and natural-colored soft lures.
🎫 5. Stillwater Fisheries (Day ticket options)
- Examples:
- Oaklands Fishery (Selby area)
- Raker Lakes
- Why: Controlled environments, known stocks, large specimens
- Tip: Dead baiting near drop-offs works well in the afternoon.
🧠 Pike Fishing Tips for May 2025
✅ Focus on post-spawn recovery zones
Pike are hungry and aggressive in May after spawning in March–April. Look for shallow shelves near deep cover.
✅ Use mobile tactics
Cover water with lures — don’t overstay one spot. Strike zones are often small.
✅ Best times to fish:
- Early morning (sunrise to 9 AM)
- Evening (6 PM to dusk)
- Cloudy or slightly rainy days = ideal for shallow activity.
✅ Try these lures in May:
- Soft swimbaits (10–15 cm)
- Spinnerbaits with flash skirts
- Suspending jerkbaits around structure
⚠️ Local Rules Reminder
- 🎣 Rod licence required in England for all freshwater fishing
- ❌ No live bait use in canals and many stillwaters
- ♻️ Follow local bylaws – catch and release is encouraged for pike
📌 Final Thoughts
Pike fishing near York in May offers the perfect mix of active fish, accessible waters, and beautiful spring weather. With rivers like the Ouse and Foss right in town, and prime canal stretches nearby, you don’t have to go far to find big predators.
Pack your gear, get your licence, and hit the water – May is feeding time for Yorkshire’s pike.
