Chain pickerel are witty and aggressive fish that provide anglers with a good challenge and an exciting time. They’re found along the Atlantic Coastline and in the Gulf of Mexico. Some anglers confuse this species with the northern pike but they have different markings that are very distinguishing. When you know what to look for, it will be easy to tell them apart.
The chain pickerel’s most distinguishing feature (the one that earned them their name) is the chain-like pattern that runs across their body. This really stands out on the light green background of their sides. They have a long, slim body with a large head. The eyes have dark bars underneath them and its pupils are a bright yellow.
They have a long, wide snout and a large mouth with sharp teeth. The four sensory pores are found underneath the lower jaw that extends out further than the upper jaw. They also have a large dorsal fin near the forked caudal fin.
They are the smallest fish in the pike family averaging around seven pounds but they’re still one amazing fish that you’ll enjoy catching. It helps to have a few tips when seeking out this species for the first time because they are a little different from other species. The more you know about them in advance the more success you can have.
Four chain pickerel fishing tips:
1. This species is very active in the winter even when the water is iced over. Therefore, ice fishing can be very productive. This makes it possible for you to fish this species all year. If you’ve never ice fished before, it’s something that you should try at least once because it’s a unique experience that you’ll always remember and one that you’re sure to enjoy. The winter and spring are the best seasons to fish this species.
2. Chain pickerel are loners and this makes them harder to find. However, they tend to spend most of their time in the aquatic vegetation waiting for an easy prey to come by. They can also be found in weed beds, logs, stumps and similar areas. If you fish around these places, you’ll be able to find them faster and easier.
3. This species has an unusual diet that consist of smaller fish, frogs, crayfish, mice, newts, minnows and insects. They are called “sight-oriented predators” because they eat anything that looks like a good meal. They’ve even been known to attack other school fish when it was convenient for them and they were hungry. Choose bait that is found in the body of water where you’re fishing for the best results. If you prefer to use artificial bait, try spoons and spinners first then experiment until you find what works the best in your area.
4. Night fishing is best for many species because this is when they are the most active. However, that’s not the case with chain pickerel. Fishing during the bright, sunny days will be your best bet when going after this fish. That’s when they’re hungry and feeding the most aggressively.
When a chain pickerel sees its prey, they tend to strike very fast attacking without any hesitation. You’ll need to be prepared for this or you could lose your rod and reel. You need to stay alert when fishing for this species or you’ll miss your chance. To set the hook, use a short snap of the wrist while keeping the line tight. Make sure you have a reel with a good drag system or you might run into problems.
Matching the size bait to the size pickerel in your area is a must. Offering bait that’s too large or too small will not capture this species interest and it will lead to few or no bites. You also need to use a line made of steel or heavy monofilament. Other types of fishing lines can be easily cut by their very sharp teeth, allowing your catch to get away.
Use safety and common sense when fishing for this or any other species. Dress appropriately wearing layers so you can adjust according to the changes in the weather throughout the day. It’s very important to wear non-skid shoes. This is something that many anglers don’t think about but it can prevent lots of accidents. Some anglers have even been known to fall overboard due to slipping so, it’s more important than it may seem at first thought.
Keep a first aid kit nearby in case of emergency and always let someone know where you plan to be at all times. Watch the weather reports and keep an eye on unexpected changes in the weather. Take snacks and beverages to help keep you hydrated and alert. Following these tips will help to keep you safer and more comfortable as you reel in the very exciting chain pickerel.