Redfin Pickerel
The Redfin Pickerel is the smallest member of Pennsylvania's pike family, rarely exceeding 12 inches in length and typically weighing 1-2 pounds.
They are effective ambush predators in shallow-water environments and are remarkably adaptable to water conditions.
Scientific Name: Esox americanus americanus
- Redfin pickerel are distinguished by their greenish-gray to dark olive-bronze coloration with wavy, worm-like lighter markings that appear as irregular vertical bars, white to yellow-tinted belly, and characteristic reddish, unspotted fins that give them their name.
- They have a distinctive black 'teardrop' mark beneath the eye that extends backward, fully scaled cheeks and gill covers, and a relatively short, broad snout compared to other esocids.
Fishing in Pennsylvania
Susquehanna River
Conodoguinet Creek
Yellow Breeches Creek
Juniata River
Lake Marburg
Monocacy River
Raystown Lake
Swatara Creek
Codorus Creek
Penns Creek
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- In Pennsylvania, they're found exclusively in eastern waters, primarily in the Delaware River watershed with rare occurrences in the Susquehanna River watershed.
- Their distribution is restricted to areas east of the Allegheny Mountains, with no natural overlap with their close relative, the grass pickerel, found in northwestern Pennsylvania.
Key Locations
- In Pennsylvania's eastern region, productive waters include areas within the Delaware River drainage system and northeastern bog-stained waters.
Specific Spots
- They inhabit weedy shallows of slow-moving streams, lakes, and ponds.
- Target slow-moving streams, backwaters, quiet lake coves, and marshy areas with clear water.
Redfin Pickerel FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Redfin Pickerel in Pennsylvania?
Effective lures include small inline spinners, small spoons, jigs, and soft plastic baits fished slowly and erratically. Since they feed primarily on invertebrates rather than fish, smaller presentations often outperform larger baits. Live bait such as small minnows, earthworms, crayfish, and aquatic insects.
What flies work for Redfin Pickerel in Pennsylvania?
Use streamers with built-in flash, small poppers, or bug patterns around lily pads and shoreline structure. White streamers 3 inches or less.
When is the best time to fish for Redfin Pickerel in Pennsylvania?
Redfin pickerel can be caught year-round in Pennsylvania, with spring and early summer offering excellent opportunities after spawning concludes. Winter fishing can be productive through the ice, as redfin pickerel remain active in cold water.
How do you catch Redfin Pickerel in Pennsylvania?
Use a slow, stop-and-go retrieve to mimic struggling prey. Live bait suspended under a bobber can be highly effective. In summer, concentrate efforts around weed edges where they ambush prey.
What do Redfin Pickerel eat?
Unlike their larger pike relatives, redfin pickerel don't rely primarily on fish as prey. Instead, they feed on small crustaceans, crayfish, aquatic insects, and other invertebrates.
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