Species guide
How to catch Redfin pickerel
Esox americanus
freshwaterbrackishgame fishEsocidae
The Redfin pickerel is a small, elongated freshwater fish known for its vibrant red fins and predatory hunting style. It inhabits clear waters rich in vegetation or sheltered areas like brush piles. This agile predator feeds on small fish, insects, and crustaceans.
Where they live
Found in North American lakes, swamps, backwaters, and slow streams, the Redfin pickerel prefers clear waters with abundant vegetation or cover such as brush and rocks. It rarely occurs in fast-flowing rivers.
Typical size
Up to about 39 cm
What they eat
- small fish
- insects
- crustaceans
Best baits
- small live minnows
- waxworms
- crickets
- small shrimp
Best lures
- small spinnerbaits
- jigs
- soft plastic minnows
- tiny crankbaits
How to fish for them
- casting near vegetation
- slow retrieval
- casting around brush and rocks
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