The Basics of Catching Pickerel

The chain pickerel, redfin pickerel and grass pickerel are closely related to each other and to the northern pike, a larger gamefish of similar appearance and habits. All members of the family are streamlined, voracious predators. Their bodies are in the form of an elongated cylinder, tapering to a large and toothy mouth.

  1. Range and Habitat

    • Pickerel can be found in roughly the eastern two-thirds of the United States and Canada. They're found in lakes, ponds and streams from New England all the way west to the plains and south as far as Texas. They are a shallow feeder, preferring warm waters near the surface. As a rule, you can usually find pickerel lurking near any area in a lake or pond where smaller fish congregate.

    Predation

    • Pickerel are a major predator in any waters where they occur. Their standard means of attack is to ambush their prey from whatever variety of cover can be found. Usually this consists of weedy areas in the shallows, but they can also be found striking from sunken trees, undercut riverbanks and similar hiding spots. They have a tremendous burst of speed when attacking, which few of their prey species can match.

    Angling for Pickerel

    • Because pickerel favor the shallows, they can be fished either from shore or from a small boat. A boat is often easier, because you can cast your rig into the edge of the weeds and then reel it out, rather than casting from shore and reeling it through the weeds. A spin-casting rig with four- to six-pound test is adequate for most pickerel, which seldom exceed five pounds and more usually weigh two or three. They'll hit best on live bait, such as large minnows or shiners, but will also hit shad darts or jigs.

    Ice Fishing for Pickerel

    • In many waters, winter can be the best time to catch pickerel. In the shallow lakes and ponds they prefer, the waters near the bottom are the warmest in mid-winter. Cut your hole in the ice over an area where there is a sudden drop off, and drop your jigs to a depth that's just above the lake bottom. Work them with a slow, steady motion for the best results.