That's the thrill of pike fishing guys!
I don't get out pike fishing much but i am looking for one of them too!
It's like trophy hunting. These guys put serious time in and probably go home empty a few times. But persistence and learning pays off like that!
If i fish with any maffers i have 2 set-ups I'll let anyone reel in anything that come on the rod set-up if they want. I could care who pulls it in just as long as where having a good time on water is cool.