How to Identify Redfin Pickerel

To identify Redfin Pickerel (Esox americanus americanus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is typically olive-green to brownish on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter, often yellowish or whitish belly. Distinctive dark, wavy, vertical bars or vermiculations are present on the flanks, which may sometimes form a reticulated pattern. The most striking feature is the reddish-orange coloration of the lower fins (caudal, anal, and often pectoral fins), which gives the fish its common name. The operculum (gill cover) is fully scaled.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Reddish-orange lower fins (caudal, anal, pectoral), Fully scaled operculum, Dark, wavy vertical bars or vermiculations on flanks, Duck-bill shaped snout, Large, sharp teeth

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively short, located far back on the body, directly above the anal fin. Typically 11-14 soft rays.

Tail fin

Forked, with reddish-orange coloration, especially on the lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, often with reddish-orange tint, positioned low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal. All fins lack spines. The dorsal and anal fins are positioned posteriorly, aiding in rapid acceleration for ambush predation.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Fin Coloration

   Look for the prominent reddish-orange color on the caudal (tail), anal, and often pectoral fins. This is the most reliable field mark.

2. 2

   Operculum Scaling

   The entire operculum (gill cover) is scaled. This distinguishes it from the Northern Pike (Esox lucius) and Muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) which have only the upper half or less scaled.

3. 3

   Body Markings

   Observe the dark, wavy vertical bars or vermiculations on the sides. These are generally more pronounced and less spot-like than some other pike species.

4. 4

   Snout Shape

   The snout is distinctly 'duck-bill' shaped, characteristic of the Esox genus.

5. 5

   Subspecies Distinction

   To differentiate from the Grass Pickerel (Esox americanus vermiculatus), note the Redfin Pickerel's more pronounced reddish fins and generally more distinct vertical barring. Grass Pickerel typically have more worm-like (vermiculated) markings and less vibrant fin coloration.

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