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Redfin Pickerel

Redfin Pickerel

Redfin Pickerel are the smallest members of the pike family found in Georgia. These ambush predators are visual hunters with large eyes. Adults are solitary and sedentary outside of spawning season, living 5-8 years.

Scientific Name: Esox americanus americanus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Typically measuring 5-12 inches with exceptional specimens reaching up to 15 inches.
  • They're distinguished by their characteristic bright red fins, vertical dark bars on their sides (rather than chain-like markings), and shorter snouts compared to Chain Pickerel.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Georgia, they occupy a limited range primarily in the southeastern coastal plain waters, with populations extending from the St.
  • Marys River area northward along Atlantic slope drainages.
  • They inhabit small, slow-moving streams averaging just a few feet to yards wide, including road ditches that maintain year-round water.

Key Locations

  • Focus on small streams, creeks, and swamps in south Georgia, particularly in Toombs County and similar coastal plain areas where populations are most established.
  • Georgia holds both the state and world record for Redfin Pickerel - a 2 pound, 10 ounce fish caught in 1982 from a middle Georgia pond.

Specific Spots

  • They prefer shallow (under 6 feet), clear freshwater streams, swamps, and backwaters with dense aquatic vegetation where they can camouflage among cover.
  • Target shallow areas with heavy cover including overhanging brush, fallen logs, cypress trees, and dense aquatic vegetation where they ambush prey.

Redfin Pickerel FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Redfin Pickerel in Georgia?

Red Rooster Tail spinners are the most proven lure, with 1/8-ounce red-bodied versions being most effective - vary blade colors between silver, gold, and painted options. Other effective lures include small inline spinners, Satilla spins, small jigs, grubs, and floating Rapalas worked on light gear.

When is the best time to fish for Redfin Pickerel in Georgia?

The optimal fishing season is during hot summer months. They spawn from late February through early May, making this period unsuitable for fishing.

How do you catch Redfin Pickerel in Georgia?

Cast just behind overhanging limbs and structure where the lure can flutter beneath the water to trigger strikes. Work the deeper pools connected by shallow sections, similar to trout stream tactics but adapted for south Georgia swamp conditions.

What do Redfin Pickerel eat?

Redfin Pickerel are apex predators in their small aquatic environments, feeding primarily on smaller fish, crayfish, and insect larvae, with juveniles consuming water fleas, amphipods, and aquatic insects.

Where do Redfin Pickerel live in Georgia?

In Georgia, they occupy a limited range primarily in the southeastern coastal plain waters, with populations extending from the St. Marys River area northward along Atlantic slope drainages.

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