Michigan Piker

Thanks for the responses. Looks as though most folks use a baitcast set-up, with a rod that will double for bass fishing. Seems reasonable to me. To and FHR's question, I would prefer to stick with a spinning reel, as that is what I've used my entire life. I boat fish, and would prefer a 2-piece for travel purposes (not a must). Looks as though the Quantum Energy comes in a 7'4" M, F, up to 1.5 oz.lure - priced at $99, which may be somethign to look at. Unfortunately FHR, the the 8'6" Wild River costs a little more than I want to spend on a rod alone. Looks nice though. Any further suggestions welcome, and thanks again for your insights! p.s. Noone has comments on Shoal Lake?

I have an Ontario trip planned for the fall, and am looking to upgrade my Pike fishing outfit. I don't get to fish Pike as much as I'd like (few time per year). I currently use an 8'6" MH Eagle Claw with a Shimano 4000 series. It has always done the job, but I think I'd like to get something a little lighter. From my research so far, it seems that I have a choice of Muskie rods (6'6" Heavy Action casting) or a few "pike" rods (9'5" - 11'). Neither option seems very appealing. I think I'd like to stay in the 7.5' - 8.5' range. Does anyone have a particular outfit that they really like for Pike. The only requirments I have is that it can handle 1.5 oz - 2.0 oz lures, and doesn't cost more than $120. Your insights would be greatly appreciated. There seems to be a lack of advertised "pike" outfits. Also, We're headed to Shaol Lake in Ontario, so if anyoone has had experience fishing it, I'd love to hear what it is like. Thanks!