PICKEREL
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Pickerel, also known as chain pickerel, are predatory fish found in various bodies of water throughout the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers seeking exciting freshwater action often target pickerel in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. Here are some popular locations for pickerel fishing in Oregon and Washington:
Oregon: Lakes such as Fern Ridge Reservoir, Tenmile Lakes, and Cottage Grove Reservoir offer pickerel angling opportunities. In addition, the Willamette River and various smaller rivers and streams provide habitat for pickerel.
Washington: Lakes like Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, and Moses Lake are known for their pickerel populations. Other notable destinations include Potholes Reservoir, Banks Lake, and the Columbia River.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Pickerel are ambush predators that prefer areas with vegetation, submerged structure, and ample cover. They can be found near weed beds, fallen trees, submerged logs, and areas with abundant aquatic vegetation. Pickerel often hide in the shadows and strike unsuspecting prey that ventures too close. They can be found in both shallow and deeper water, depending on the season and their hunting patterns.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During spring, pickerel become more active as the water temperature rises. They move into shallower areas to spawn and feed. Look for them near weed beds, submerged structure, or areas with cover. Fishing with small spoons, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, or using live bait such as minnows or worms can be effective during this season.
SUMMER
In the summer months, pickerel may seek cooler water and often retreat to deeper areas or areas with dense vegetation. They can be found near weed edges, drop-offs, or areas with abundant cover. Fishing during low-light periods or at dawn and dusk can be productive. Techniques such as casting weedless topwater lures, using weedless soft plastics, or fishing with live baitfish can entice pickerel to bite.
FALL
Fall is an excellent time to target pickerel as they actively feed in preparation for winter. They may be found near weed beds, submerged timber, or areas with cover. Fishing with jerkbaits, spinnerbaits, or using live baitfish can yield good results during this season.
WINTER
In winter, pickerel activity slows down, and they may move to deeper sections of lakes or areas with warmer water. They can be found near areas with structure or in deeper holes. Fishing with slow presentations such as jigging spoons, swimbaits, or using live bait under tip-ups can be effective in enticing pickerel to bite.
Bait
Pickerel are aggressive feeders and can be targeted using a variety of baits and lures. Popular options include spoons, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures. The choice of bait depends on the fishing conditions, pickerel behavior, and angler preference.
When selecting lures, consider using bright colors or flashy patterns to attract pickerel's attention. They are known to strike at fast-moving lures, so experimenting with different retrieval speeds and techniques can help trigger a response. Additionally, using live baitfish such as minnows, shiners, or nightcrawlers can be effective, especially when fishing in areas with dense vegetation or during low-light periods.