Terry, i'm sorry to dissapoint you but I do not think there is any 'quick fix' route to catching a specimen. There may be a few easier waters, but that does not mean that the fish jump on any bait or lure that enters the water even there.
I'm afraid that you will have to persevere with blank days, slightly different methods and cold hands, just the same as all of us.
There are many waters around the Sheffield area that hold good pike, The Rivers Don and Rother, Ulley, Langsett, Harthill and Pebly reservoirs are a good place to start. While fishing at these places you can enjoy the 'crack' with others and pick up more detailed tips. Another option is to join your local PAC branch, this may actually be a quicker route to success.