I fish on Canal regularly; there are many shore access spots to fish from. Many frequent the causeway bridge that runs through the Northern half of the lake. I can also suggest trying around the swing bridge near Bolsover.
Early season pike favorites are the x-rap, williams spoons, inline spinners (blue fox vibrax with a pink bell is a killer choice :wink: ) and can't rule out a good ol' spinnerbait.
Lot's of hammerhandles but some good ones get into the mix.
Good luck!
I'll be up there this weekend, hopefully, slaying 'em.
Reefrunner