UncommonNativeSecure
6
Chain Pickerel
Esox niger · Esocidae
Slough shark. Toothy ambusher of the Delta.
Common
16–24 in
Max
30 in
Weight
Up to 9 lbs
Best Bite Windows
When chain pickerel feeds · time-of-day read
Right now · 12:00 PM · MIDD window
GOOD65%feeding activity
First & last light · inline spinners
24-hour bite curvetaller = more feeding · scrub the clock
12a6a12p6p12a
DAWN
72
MORN
76
MIDD
67
AFTE
76
DUSK
44
NIGH
31
Weed-edge ambusher · light-change strikes
Solar + LunarMEDIUM lunar pull
Major feeds7:59p – 9:59p5:10a – 7:10a
Minor feeds5:30a – 6:30a8:07p – 9:07p
Solunar window 8:14p – 9:44p
Full Moon
Ambush predator more active under moonlight.
Habitat
OxbowsSwampsSlow riversLakes
Range
Lily pads, hydrilla, cypress backwaters. Anywhere with weeds.
Diet
Smaller fish — bluegill, shiners, frogs.
Best baits & lures
Inline spinners
Spoons
Topwater frogs
Gear up locallyPartner
Tale Waters & Tides
The home water for Arkansas anglers
Pocket Fishing Guide is powered by Tale Waters & Tides — gear, guides, and the stories behind the water. Plan your next trip with us.
How to fish it · techniques
Wire leader is mandatory
Fast-moving lures
Edge of the weeds
Book a guidePartner
Rileys White & Buffalo Outfitter
Your White & Buffalo River outfitter
Guided float trips, canoe & kayak rentals, and riverside cabins on the White and Buffalo rivers.
Fun fact
A chain pickerel will hit a topwater so hard you'll think you snagged a log. Arkansas state record is 9 lb 4 oz — and southern pickerel grow bigger and faster than their northern cousins.
Status
Secure
Native · Esocidae