Redfin Pickerel
The Redfin Pickerel is one of Virginia's smallest pike family members and apex predators in their small, shallow environments.
Scientific Name: Esox americanus americanus
- Typically reaching 5-8.5 inches with a maximum around 15 inches.
- Virginia's state record is 8.3 inches.
- Distinguished by their distinctive red-orange fins (especially pectorals and pelvics), shorter snout compared to chain pickerel, and vertical dark bars rather than chain-like patterns.
Fishing in Virginia
Rivanna River
James River
Lake Anna
South Fork Shenandoah River
South River
Rappahannock River
Appomattox River
Beaver Creek Reservoir
South Fork Rivanna River
Rapidan River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Inhabit only the easternmost Coastal Plain of Virginia, primarily in the southern-central region.
- Historical populations reported in the upper Occoquan River drainage in northeast Virginia, though this population may have significantly declined or been extirpated.
Key Locations
- Virginia's Coastal Plain, primarily in the southern-central region, with historical populations reported in the upper Occoquan River drainage in northeast Virginia.
Specific Spots
- Shallow, heavily vegetated waters including swamps, backwaters, quiet streams, ponds, and occasionally brackish waters.
- Target heavily vegetated areas and focus on areas with dense aquatic vegetation or decaying organic matter where they hide.
Redfin Pickerel FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
How do you catch Redfin Pickerel in Virginia?
Small live fish as bait with a bobber or float, fishing in extremely shallow water. Minnow traps placed in narrow stream passages can be highly effective, though this method requires patience and practice.
What do Redfin Pickerel eat?
Feeding primarily on smaller fish, crayfish, and insect larvae. Newly hatched larvae feed on water fleas, amphipods, and small insects.
Where do Redfin Pickerel live in Virginia?
Inhabit only the easternmost Coastal Plain of Virginia, primarily in the southern-central region. Historical populations reported in the upper Occoquan River drainage in northeast Virginia, though this population may have significantly declined or been extirpated.
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