Redfin Pickerel
The Redfin Pickerel is a subspecies of freshwater fish in the pike family found throughout Florida, particularly abundant from Massachusetts to Lake Okeechobee and extending to the Pascagoula River in Mississippi.
In Florida, they're native and well-established.
Scientific Name: Esox americanus americanus
- These small pike relatives typically measure 8-12 inches (some reaching 16 inches) and weigh 1-2 pounds, distinguished by their vibrant red fins, duckbill-like snout, and dark vertical bars running along their brownish-green bodies.
- Unlike chain pickerel, they lack chain-link markings.
Fishing in Florida
Lake Parker
Peace River
Tampa Bay
Lake Kissimmee
Lake Tohopekaliga
Hillsborough Bay
Alafia River
Little Manatee River
McKay Bay
Kissimmee River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found in vegetated lakes, ponds, swamps, and backwaters of small to large rivers throughout Florida.
Key Locations
- Found from Massachusetts to Lake Okeechobee and extending to the Pascagoula River in Mississippi.
Specific Spots
- Focus on vegetated shallow flats, weedbeds, fallen trees, and areas with heavy aquatic cover where they ambush prey.
- They prefer shallow (6-7 feet deep), clear freshwater with dense vegetation or decaying organic matter where they hide to ambush prey.
Redfin Pickerel FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Redfin Pickerel in Florida?
For lure fishing, inline spinners are the most productive, along with small plugs and soft plastic baits. Live baits like minnows work well, and some anglers report success with bread or dough balls and insects. When using conventional tackle, employ small live fish as bait.
When is the best time to fish for Redfin Pickerel in Florida?
While they can be caught year-round, avoid the spawning period from late February to early May when they migrate to small tributary streams. Post-spawn periods and summer months when they're established in their feeding areas provide the most consistent action.
How do you catch Redfin Pickerel in Florida?
Still fishing and topwater casting can be effective techniques. Minnow traps placed in narrow stream passageways can be highly effective, though this method requires patience to perfect.
What do Redfin Pickerel eat?
They feed primarily on smaller fishes, crayfish, and insect larvae, with newly hatched fish eating water fleas, amphipods, and insect e.g.gs.
Where do Redfin Pickerel live in Florida?
Found in vegetated lakes, ponds, swamps, and backwaters of small to large rivers throughout Florida.
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