Pickerel

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Pickerel, also known as chain pickerel, are freshwater game fish that can be found in various bodies of water throughout the South/Gulf region. They are commonly found in lakes, ponds, rivers, and slow-moving streams.
Alabama: Lake Guntersville, Wheeler Lake, Lake Martin, Weiss Lake, Bankhead Reservoir.
Arkansas: Lake Ouachita, Lake Conway, Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Hamilton, DeGray Lake.
Georgia: Lake Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Sinclair, Clarks Hill Lake, West Point Lake.
Louisiana: Toledo Bend Reservoir, Lake Pontchartrain, Caney Lake, Catahoula Lake, False River.
Mississippi: Ross Barnett Reservoir, Sardis Lake, Grenada Lake, Enid Lake, Pickwick Lake.
Oklahoma: Lake Eufaula, Grand Lake, Keystone Lake, Robert S. Kerr Reservoir, Tenkiller Lake.
Tennessee: Kentucky Lake, Chickamauga Lake, Watts Bar Lake, Douglas Lake, Norris Lake.
Texas: Lake Conroe, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Lake Livingston, Lake Fork, Lake O' the Pines.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Pickerel are typically found in areas with abundant vegetation, fallen trees, and submerged cover. They thrive in shallow waters, particularly in areas with aquatic plants and weed beds. Pickerel are ambush predators and often hide among vegetation or submerged structure, waiting for their prey to pass by.
Look for pickerel near the edges of weed beds, lily pads, and other aquatic vegetation. They can also be found in areas with submerged timber, fallen logs, and brush piles. Pickerel are known to be solitary fish, so if you find one, there's a good chance there are more in the vicinity.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, pickerel become more active as the water temperature rises. Look for them in shallower areas near vegetation, especially around the edges of weed beds and near fallen trees. They tend to be more aggressive and readily take various baits and lures during this time.

SUMMER

In the summer, pickerel tend to seek cooler and shaded areas to escape the heat. Look for them near submerged vegetation, fallen logs, or areas with overhanging trees. Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can be productive during this season when pickerel are more active.

FALL

As fall arrives, pickerel become more active in preparation for winter. They may move into shallower areas again, particularly near submerged structure or weed beds. Look for pickerel near the edges of vegetation or in areas with good cover.

WINTER

During the winter months, pickerel become less active and may move to deeper sections of lakes and reservoirs. Look for them near areas with warmer water sources or near submerged structures. Slow presentations with small jigs, spinners, or live bait can be effective during the colder months.

Pickerel are aggressive predators and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Common bait options for pickerel fishing include small spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits. They also readily take live bait such as minnows, nightcrawlers, or small fish.
When targeting pickerel, it's important to use appropriate tackle to handle their sharp teeth and powerful strikes. This typically includes medium to heavy fishing rods and reels with a strong fishing line. Using