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Redfin Pickerel

Redfin Pickerel

Redfin Pickerel are the smallest member of the pike family in New Hampshire, native to the Atlantic coastal plain and reach their northern extent in New Hampshire, where they're listed as a species of concern due to limited populations in the southeastern corner of the state.

Scientific Name: Esox americanus americanus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Reaching a maximum length of about 12 inches and typically measuring 5-9 inches.
  • Distinguished from chain pickerel by their smaller size, more blunt snout, olive to yellowish-green coloration, distinctive reddish-colored fins, and a backwards-slanting black vertical bar beneath the eye.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In New Hampshire, they're restricted to lower elevation rivers and streams along the coastal plain in the lower Merrimack and southern coastal drainages.
  • They're often found in smaller watersheds than chain pickerel and frequently inhabit streams flowing through abandoned beaver ponds in very small watersheds that may dry up in some years.

Key Locations

  • Lower Merrimack and southern coastal drainages, including areas like the Piscassic River and Lamprey River system.
  • Target the main stem of rivers like the Piscassic River.

Specific Spots

  • Prefer shallow weedy backwaters with dense aquatic vegetation or thick overhanging grasses and shrubs.
  • Fish around dense vegetation, fallen logs, overhanging brush, and areas with decaying organic matter where they hide while ambushing prey.

Redfin Pickerel FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Redfin Pickerel in New Hampshire?

Small naturally buoyant streamers like unweighted Bucktail Deceivers, large Muddlers, or Tabory Snake Flies.

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

Summer months (June through September) when water temperatures are warm. Avoid fishing during their spawning period from late February through early May.

How do you catch Redfin Pickerel in New Hampshire?

Using small live fish as bait with a bobber or float, dragging long-handled dip nets through heavy cover during summer, or placing minnow traps in narrow stream passageways where small fish pass through. Use small naturally buoyant streamers with a steady retrieve.

What do Redfin Pickerel eat?

As ambush predators, they feed on invertebrates, small fish, crayfish, and insect larvae, with newly hatched larvae eating water fleas, amphipods, and insect e.g.gs.

Where do Redfin Pickerel live in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, they're restricted to lower elevation rivers and streams along the coastal plain in the lower Merrimack and southern coastal drainages.

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