>>1077725>are we just doing something wrong?Most likely
In order of priority:
>make sure the line isn't old and UV-degradedIf it's more than 3 years old but spent most of that time sitting in the shed/basement/garage, respool. If it's more than 1 year old but spend most of that time outside, respool. If it's more than 6 months old and has been used a lot, respool.
>dragThere's no solid consensus on what exactly your drag should be set at, but a general guideline is 50% of your line's rated strength if you're using an improved clinch or palomar knot for your lure, or 60% of your knot strength if you're using any other knot (don't do this, use a palomar). Cheap reels (Shakespeares, Zebcos, any spinning reel under $30, any spincasting reel regardless of price) have inconsistent drags and are not to be trusted and you would do well to go even lighter on drag.
>time fightingThe shorter the better. If this requires heavier line or a stouter rod, so be it. Yes, in theory, you can play a fish a long time on very light line, but specifically for pike the odds of it breaking you off on shit in the water is pretty high as is and goes up rapidly if you fight it a long time.
>style of fightingKeep pulling on the fish at least a little, never let it go slack, as that leads to spit hooks or fish getting turned around backwards and getting your line cut above the leader on gill covers or dorsal spines. If the fish jumps, drop your rod tip down and away from the fish to pull his head down while keeping pressure on him.
