Chain Pickerel
Chain Pickerel are not native to Michigan but are present as a non-indigenous species, primarily in Lake Huron waters since 2015.
These aggressive predators are highly adaptable, tolerating water temperatures from 36-72°F and can handle both fresh and brackish water up to 22 ppt salinity.
Scientific Name: Esox niger
- These aggressive predators are easily identified by their distinctive dark chain-like patterns on greenish sides and a vertical dark marking below the eye.
- Chain Pickerel are smaller members of the pike family, typically averaging 20-24 inches and 2-3 pounds, though trophy fish can exceed 26 inches.
Fishing in Michigan
Lake Huron
Flat River
Muskegon River
Shiawassee River
Maple River
Grand River
Saginaw River
Halls Lake
Tittabawassee River
Tubbs Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Chain Pickerel are smaller members of the pike family present as a non-indigenous species, primarily in Lake Huron waters since 2015.
Key Locations
- Lake Huron waters.
Specific Spots
- They prefer vegetated shallow areas with cover like lily pads, milfoil, brush, logs, and aquatic vegetation where they can ambush prey.
- Target vegetated shallow flats, lily pad areas, weed edges, and drop-offs near structure.
Chain Pickerel FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Chain Pickerel in Michigan?
Top lures include jerkbaits like Rapala X-Rap in sizes 8-10, Blue Fox Vibrax inline spinners (sizes 4-6 with feathered tails), and soft plastics like Zoom Super Fluke on weedless Texas rigs.
What flies work for Chain Pickerel in Michigan?
Brightly colored 3-6 inch streamers in white and chartreuse, articulated streamers, craft fur baitfish patterns, and wooly buggers.
When is the best time to fish for Chain Pickerel in Michigan?
In spring, focus on flats along channel edges and coves as fish feed heavily pre-spawn. Summer fishing is best during low-light periods at dawn and dusk around dense vegetation, with midday action in deeper transition zones. Fall patterns mirror summer until water cools significantly.
How do you catch Chain Pickerel in Michigan?
Use aggressive retrieves in warm weather, slower presentations in cold water, and always fish near cover where these ambush predators wait for prey. Texas rigs for soft plastics.
What do Chain Pickerel eat?
They're opportunistic ambush predators that feed primarily on smaller fish including golden shiners, brown bullheads, and pumpkinseed sunfish, with crayfish making up about 42% of their diet. They also consume frogs, snakes, insects, and small mammals.
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