American Pickerel and Similar Species
Esox americanus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with American Pickerel. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Chain Pickerel
Esox niger
Key differences: Chain Pickerel have a distinct chain-like or reticulated pattern on their sides, rather than the wavy bars or vermiculations of the American Pickerel. Chain Pickerel also grow significantly larger and have a fully scaled cheek but only the upper half of the operculum scaled.
Northern Pike
Esox lucius
Key differences: Northern Pike have light spots on a dark background, not bars or vermiculations. They also have a fully scaled cheek but only the upper half of the operculum scaled. Northern Pike grow much larger than American Pickerel.
Muskellunge
Esox masquinongy
Key differences: Muskellunge are much larger, have dark bars or spots on a light background (or are unpatterned), and have only the upper half of both the cheek and operculum scaled. Their markings are typically more irregular and less defined than American Pickerel.
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