Fly fishing typically conjures images of casting for trout in pristine mountain streams or gliding flies through coastal waters for flashy saltwater species. But what if we told you that fly fishing for pickerel—the smaller, feistier cousin of the pike—holds its own unique thrill?
Pickerel may not be every angler’s first choice, but this underrated species offers challenge, excitement, and an opportunity to refine your fly fishing skills in a freshwater setting. If you’re an adventurer ready to veer off the beaten path, this unconventional approach to targeting pickerel might just become your new obsession.
Here’s what you need to know to get started fly fishing for pickerel, from strategies and gear to locations and tips for success.
Why Fly Fish for Pickerel?
Before we get into the “how,” let’s tackle the “why.” Pickerel, also known as chain pickerel, are native to North America’s freshwater systems and are known for their aggression and lightning-fast strikes. While some anglers might overlook them in favor of trophy bass or trout, the pickerel’s raw energy makes them an exhilarating target on a fly rod.
Here are some key reasons to target pickerel with a fly rod:
- Aggressiveness: Pickerel have a predatory nature that makes them highly responsive to flies, especially flashy streamers or poppers.
- Beginner-Friendly: They aren’t overly fussy eaters, making them a great species for anglers new to fly fishing.
- Abundance: Pickerel inhabit many freshwater lakes, rivers, and marshlands, which means you’re not searching for a needle in a haystack.
- Unpredictable Fun: From the thrill of surface attacks to the fight they put up, pickerel keep you on your toes.
Adding pickerel to your fly fishing repertoire will not only hone your casting and retrieval skills but also push you to experiment creatively with gear and techniques.
The Gear You’ll Need for Pickerel Fly Fishing
Unlike trout or salmon fishing, targeting pickerel doesn’t require overly specialized or high-end equipment. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to get started:
Fly Rods & Reels
- Rod Weight: A 6–8 weight rod is ideal for pickerel. It provides enough backbone to cast heavier flies while handling the pickerel’s aggressive nature.
- Length: An 8–9-foot rod works well in most conditions, offering precision for both long casts and tighter quarters.
- Reel: A standard fly reel with a smooth drag system is sufficient. Pickerel runs can be zippy, but you won’t need anything overly advanced.
Lines & Leaders
- Fly Line: Opt for a weight-forward floating line, as most pickerel fishing takes place in shallow water. A sink-tip line can be helpful for deeper channels.
- Leader: Pickerel are notorious for snapping lines due to their sharp teeth. Use a heavy-duty leader (15–20 lbs) or consider a fluorocarbon bite tippet to avoid losing flies. Steel leaders can also work, but they may spook wary fish.
Flies
Pickerel are aggressive predators, meaning they’re less picky about fly patterns. Focus on mimicking their prey with these options:
- Streamers: Patterns like the Woolly Bugger, Clouser Minnow, or Deceiver in brighter colors (chartreuse, white, and yellow) are excellent for enticing strikes.
- Poppers: Surface flies with loud splashes, like foam poppers or slider flies, work wonders in warm-water conditions.
- Other Considerations: Experiment with larger flies (3–5 inches) featuring flash and movement to trigger reactions from pickerel.
Finding the Perfect Pickerel Waters
Pickerel thrive in warm, slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation. Their habitat includes freshwater lakes, ponds, marshes, and slower rivers. When scouting for pickerel, look for these ideal conditions:
- Vegetation: Pickerel love to ambush their prey from weed beds, lily pads, or submerged grasses. They also favor areas with downed logs or submerged structures.
- Shallow Areas: These fish tend to stick to shallow waters (2–6 feet) where prey like minnows, frogs, and insects are abundant.
- Warm Climates: Pickerel are more active during warm seasons, so late spring through early fall is the best time to target them.
Prime pickerel spots in Canada include Ontario’s Kawartha Lakes and New Brunswick’s winding rivers, though they can be found in many other regions, even areas heavily populated with other species.
Technique and Strategy for Catching Pickerel on the Fly
Pickerel fly fishing isn’t about intricate techniques or stealth. It’s about big casts, bold retrievals, and bracing yourself for a dramatic surface explosion or tight-line tug. Here’s how to master it:
Casting and Presenting
- Cast your fly into areas with dense vegetation or cover (weed edges, under overhanging trees, etc.).
- Vary your casting distance depending on water clarity and fish activity, but remain precise and avoid spooking fish.
- Pickerel often hit flies right after landing—stay alert!
Retrieval Styles
Pickerel tend to ambush moving targets, which means your retrieval style is critical. Some effective methods include:
- Fast, Erratic Stripping: Use short, quick strips to mimic a fleeing prey item.
- Stop-and-Go Retrievals: Pause your fly intermittently to allow it to hover enticingly, then strip again.
- Surface Popping: With topwater poppers, create audible splashes to draw pickerel up from the shallows.
Strike and Hook-Set
Pickerel strikes can be explosive and aggressive, but hooking them requires effort. Use sharp, strong hooks, and set firmly once you feel the bite, as their bony jaws make it harder to penetrate.
Practical Tip
Pickerel are toothy predators, so handle with care. Use long-handled pliers or hemostats when removing hooks to avoid getting nipped.
Becoming a Pickerel Fly Fishing Pro
The beauty of fishing for pickerel lies in the thrill of the unknown. Whether you’re targeting them for the first time or trying to refine your tactics, these fish keep you engaged at every level.
Here are a few bonus tips to elevate your experience:
- Plan for Action: Fly fishing for pickerel often means a busy day on the water. Be prepared for frequent strikes and more than a few action-packed battles.
- Come Prepared: Always carry extra flies and leaders. Pickerel’s sharp teeth can easily shred your gear.
- Catch and Release: Pickerel’s stamina means they require careful handling during release. Allow them to recover in the water before letting them swim off.
Fly Fishing for Pickerel: A True Test of Adventure
Challenging, exhilarating, and refreshingly unconventional—fly fishing for pickerel is perfect for anglers looking to break out of their usual routines. From their ambush strikes to their fierce energy, these toothy predators deliver an unforgettable thrill.
Want to make fly fishing for pickerel your next adventure? Grab your fly rod, head to the nearest marshy shallows, and prepare for explosive action. As any pickerel fan will tell you, it’s not about the size of the fish—it’s about the size of the fight.