Pickerel
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Found in a variety of environments such as rivers, ponds, and lakes.
Pickerel prefer cooler waters and are commonly found in the northern and eastern parts of North America.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Predator, mainly eating smaller fish.
Natural structure, points, docks, trees, grassy areas. Any sudden changes in water depth.
Slow-moving rivers and streams with heavy vegetation and cover, such as cattails, lily pads, and fallen trees.
Shallow, weedy ponds and lakes with plenty of cover for ambush hunting.
PATTERNS
SPRING
Year round fishing
During the spring, pickerel will move into shallower waters to spawn. After spawning, they will move into deeper waters and can be found around weed beds, fallen trees, rocks, and drop-offs.
SUMMER
During the summer, pickerel will typically be found in the same deeper waters and around similar structures, but they may also venture into shallower waters to feed during the early morning and late evening hours.
FALL
 In the fall, pickerel will begin to move back into shallower waters as water temperatures begin to drop
WINTER
During the winter, pickerel will be less active and will spend most of their time in deeper waters where the water temperature is relatively stable. However, they can still be caught through the ice by anglers.
Bait
Minnows, Crayfish, Worms, Leeches