WikiCatch
Redfin pickerel
Esox americanus americanus
Overview
The redfin pickerel is a subspecies of freshwater fish belonging to the pike family (Esocidae) of the order Esociformes. Not to be confused with its close relatives, the grass pickerel and the chain pickerel, this fish is unique in the fact that it has brightly colored red fins. Like all pikes, the redfin pickerel is an ambush predator, lying amongst thick vegetation in wait for smaller, more agile prey to enter within its range of attack.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Small minnows
Hook through the lips or dorsal fin.
- Nightcrawlers
Use a small piece on a light wire hook.
- Grass shrimp
Effective under a float near vegetation.
- Crickets
Good for topwater action in summer.
Artificial Lures
- Mepps Aglia #2SpinnerBuy
Silver or gold blade works well.
- Rapala Original Floater 05CrankbaitBuy
Retrieve with twitches and pauses.
- Zoom FlukeSoft PlasticBuy
Use weightless or lightly weighted.
- Blue Fox Vibrax Foxtail SpinnerSpinnerBuy
Produces vibration and flash.
- Daredevle SpoonSpoonBuy
Classic and effective for pickerel.
Techniques
Target areas with vegetation or submerged structure, as Redfin pickerel are ambush predators that will wait for their prey.
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Where to Find Redfin pickerel
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Redfin pickerel?+
Popular baits for Redfin pickerel include Small minnows, Nightcrawlers, Grass shrimp, Crickets, Mepps Aglia #2. Tip: Target areas with vegetation or submerged structure, as Redfin pickerel are ambush predators that will wait for their prey.
Where can I catch Redfin pickerel?+
Redfin pickerel can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Massachusetts, United States; New York, United States; Georgia, United States. WikiCatch lists 127 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Redfin pickerel get?+
Redfin pickerel (Esox americanus americanus) can reach up to 41 cm in length and 1.02 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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