Chain Pickerel
Chain Pickerel are a native freshwater species distributed statewide throughout Delaware's waters, where they're considered common and abundant.
These torpedo-shaped predators are aggressive predators that remain active throughout winter, making them one of the few species that can be targeted year-round in Delaware.
Scientific Name: Esox niger
- These torpedo-shaped predators are easily identified by their distinctive chain-like dark markings on greenish sides, a dark vertical teardrop mark under the eye, and a large duck-bill shaped mouth full of needle-sharp teeth.
- Delaware anglers typically catch Chain Pickerel ranging from 14 to 20 inches, though the current state record is an impressive 7 pounds 13 ounces.
Fishing in Delaware
Delaware River
Lums Pond
Delaware Bay
Cohansey River
Leipsic River
Maurice River
Susquehanna River
Nantuxent Cove
Mispillion River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Chain Pickerel prefer vegetated lakes, ponds, swamps, and backwaters of rivers, and can tolerate brackish water, making them common in Delaware's tidal areas as well.
Specific Spots
- Target shallow, weedy areas including lily pad beds, fallen timber, brush piles, and vegetated shorelines.
- They lurk around aquatic vegetation, fallen trees, lily pads, and overhanging brush.
Chain Pickerel FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Chain Pickerel in Delaware?
Popular lures include spinnerbaits (especially in bright colors like yellow, chartreuse, and red/white combinations), in-line spinners, plastic worms, jigs, and topwater lures. Soft plastic flukes (particularly pearl-colored) work exceptionally well when Texas-rigged for fishing around vegetation.
What flies work for Chain Pickerel in Delaware?
Use brightly colored streamers, craft fur baitfish patterns, wooly buggers, and articulated flies in yellow, white, or chartreuse.
When is the best time to fish for Chain Pickerel in Delaware?
The best fishing occurs from October through March, with winter being particularly productive when other species are less active.
How do you catch Chain Pickerel in Delaware?
Cast parallel to weed edges and structure, retrieving with steady, moderate speeds or twitch-and-pause patterns for topwater lures. They're opportunistic ambush predators that lurk in shallow, weedy waters.
What do Chain Pickerel eat?
Chain Pickerel are aggressive predators that primarily feed on small fish, frogs, crayfish, snakes, worms, mice, and various aquatic insects. Young pickerel start by feeding on zooplankton and aquatic insects before transitioning to a predominantly fish-based diet around 3 inches in length.
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