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Redfin Pickerel

Redfin Pickerel

The Redfin Pickerel is the smallest member of the pike family found in Massachusetts and are native to the state. These ambush predators are visual hunters with large eyes.

Massachusetts represents the northern extent of their Atlantic slope range, which extends south to Florida's Okeechobee Lake.

Scientific Name: Esox americanus americanus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Typically measuring 5-9 inches with some reaching up to 12 inches.
  • They're distinguished by their bright red fins, shorter snout compared to chain pickerel, and dark vertical bars running down their brownish-green bodies.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They thrive in shallow (6-7 feet or less), clear freshwater habitats including streams, lakes, swamps, and wetlands with dense aquatic vegetation or decaying organic matter where they can camouflage.

Key Locations

  • They're found throughout Massachusetts waters including the Charles River system, though they're absent from some western watersheds like the Housatonic and Thames.
  • The Charles River system offers good opportunities, particularly around vegetated shallows and backwater areas.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas where small tributaries enter larger water bodies, as these fish often position themselves at current breaks and feeding lanes.
  • Focus on vegetated shallows and backwater areas.

Redfin Pickerel FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small live minnows or shiners suspended under a bobber, inline spinners, small jigs, spoons, and soft plastic baits.

What flies work for Redfin Pickerel in Massachusetts?

Streamers with built-in flash or realistic baitfish patterns. Small poppers and bass bugs work well during surface feeding periods, especially near lily pads and shoreline structure.

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

Summer through early fall provides excellent opportunities. Avoid late February through early May during spawning period.

How do you catch Redfin Pickerel in Massachusetts?

Effective techniques include still fishing with small live minnows or shiners suspended under a bobber just above weed beds, and spin casting with inline spinners which are particularly effective. Fish can be caught in water as shallow as several inches, making sight fishing possible in clear conditions.

What do Redfin Pickerel eat?

They feed primarily on smaller fish, crayfish, and insect larvae, while juveniles consume water fleas, amphipods, and aquatic insects.

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