Chain Pickerel

Other names: Southern pike, Grass pike, Jack, Jackfish, Gunny

The chain pickerel (Esox niger) is a freshwater fish found in eastern North America. Recognizable by its chain-like markings and dark vertical bar beneath the eye, it inhabits vegetated lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. This species is a popular target for anglers due to its aggressive nature and strong fight.

Length
~61 (max 79)
Weight
~1 (max 2)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
12-21° F
Depth
3 ft

Other names
Southern pike, Grass pike, Jack, Jackfish, Gunny
Length
~61 (max 79)
Weight
~1 (max 2)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
12-21° F
Depth
3 ft

Popular lures for Chain Pickerel

Acme Kastmaster Spoon

American Baitworks Scum Frog

Bass Assassin

Booyah Pikee Spinner

Booyah Pond Magic Spinnerbait

Booyah Prank Lipped Popper

Cut Bait (Fish)

Daredevle spoon

Dressed Mepps Aglia

Drop shot Slug-go

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Regulation for Chain Pickerel

Check all regulations in NS

Season
The season varies in each Recreational Fishing Area
Bag limit
100
Vessel limit
-
Trophy limits
-
Max size
-
Min size
No
Measurement
-
Prohibited methods
-

Check all regulations in NS

Living Conditions

🐟 Habitat preferences
- Inhabits vegetated lakes, ponds, and backwaters of rivers
- Can tolerate brackish water with salinity levels of up to 22 ppt
- Juveniles hide among aquatic vegetation for protection
- Diet includes fish, crayfish, frogs, and insects
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs in late winter to early spring
- Eggs are scattered over aquatic vegetation without parental care
- Juveniles feed on aquatic insects and plankton, transitioning to fish as they grow
- Chain pickerel can live up to nine years