Walleye vs. Pickerel: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 23, 2023
Walleye is a freshwater fish species; pickerel refers to several smaller species of pike.
Key Differences
Walleye and pickerel are both freshwater fish species, but they belong to different families. Walleye is a member of the perch family, while pickerel belongs to the pike family.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Walleye is known for its unique eye appearance, characterized by a silvery, opaque glow. This feature aids them in low light conditions. Pickerel, on the other hand, doesn’t possess this specific eye characteristic.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
In terms of size, walleye tend to be larger, often sought by anglers for their impressive size and delicious meat. Pickerel, though prized by some anglers, are generally smaller in size.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
The body markings of the two fish also differ. Walleye typically have a distinct olive-green color, with a white underbelly and five or more distinct black blotches on their dorsal fin. Pickerel, especially the chain pickerel, has a chain-like pattern along its greenish sides.
Harlon Moss
Oct 23, 2023
Both walleye and pickerel are popular targets for freshwater anglers. However, their habitats, behaviors, and methods to catch them may differ based on their unique characteristics.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Eye Characteristic
Has a silvery, opaque glow in the eyes.
Doesn't have the specific eye glow.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Typical Size
Generally larger, prized by anglers.
Smaller in comparison to walleye.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Body Markings
Olive-green with white underbelly and black blotches on dorsal fin.
Chain-like pattern on greenish sides (for chain pickerel).
Sara Rehman
Oct 23, 2023
Predatory Behavior
Predominantly nocturnal, feeding at night.
Active during various times, depending on species.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
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Walleye and Pickerel Definitions
Walleye
Walleye is a freshwater fish species native to North America.
The angler caught a massive walleye weighing over 10 pounds.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 23, 2023
Pickerel
Pickerel are aggressive predators and will strike at various lures and baits.
The angler used a spinnerbait to attract the attention of a hungry pickerel.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Walleye
Walleye is a popular game fish, sought for its taste and size.
Many anglers participate in walleye tournaments each year.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Pickerel
Pickerel belongs to the pike family, scientifically known as Esocidae.
Northern pike, muskellunge, and pickerel are all members of the pike family.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Walleye
Walleye is characterized by its distinctive glowing eyes.
The walleye's reflective eyes help it see in murky waters.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
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Pickerel
Pickerel is a term for several species of small pike.
The young angler was thrilled with his first pickerel catch.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 23, 2023
Walleye
Walleye belongs to the perch family, scientifically known as Percidae.
Walleye and yellow perch are close relatives in the same family.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Pickerel
Pickerel can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats, from streams to lakes.
The pristine lake was home to both walleye and pickerel.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Walleye
The name "walleye" refers to its outward-pointing eyes.
The term walleye is derived from the Old Norse word vagl-eye, meaning rolling eye or walleye.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Pickerel
The chain pickerel has a distinctive chain-like pattern on its sides.
The distinctive markings made it evident that it was a chain pickerel.
Sara Rehman
Oct 23, 2023
Walleye
Pl. walleye or wall·eyes A freshwater food and game fish (Sander vitreus) of North America, having large silvery eyes and a greenish-yellow mottled body.
Sumera Saeed
Aug 16, 2020
Pickerel
Any of several North American freshwater game fishes of the genus Esox, especially the chain pickerel.
Sumera Saeed
Aug 16, 2020
FAQs
What is the distinct feature of a walleye's eyes?
Walleye's eyes have a unique silvery, opaque glow.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 23, 2023
Which fish has a chain-like pattern on its sides?
The chain pickerel has a chain-like pattern on its sides.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
What family does the pickerel belong to?
Pickerel belongs to the pike family, Esocidae.
Janet White
Oct 23, 2023
Are walleye and pickerel the same fish?
No, walleye and pickerel are different species and belong to different families.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
What family does the walleye belong to?
Walleye belongs to the perch family, Percidae.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Is walleye a popular game fish?
Yes, walleye is a highly sought-after game fish, especially for its size and taste.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
How can I differentiate between a walleye and a pickerel by looking at them?
Walleye has a distinct olive-green color, while chain pickerel has a chain-like pattern on its sides.
Janet White
Oct 23, 2023
What lures are effective for catching pickerel?
Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and live baits are often effective for catching pickerel.
Janet White
Oct 23, 2023
Do both walleye and pickerel make for good eating?
Yes, both are considered good table fish, with walleye being especially prized for its flavor.
Harlon Moss
Oct 23, 2023
How is the term "walleye" derived?
The term "walleye" comes from the Old Norse word "vagl-eye," meaning "rolling eye" or "walleye."
Harlon Moss
Oct 23, 2023
What type of habitats do pickerel prefer?
Pickerel can be found in various freshwater habitats, from shallow streams to lakes.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Are there specific fishing techniques for walleye?
Walleye fishing techniques often involve jigging, trolling, or using live bait, especially during their nocturnal feeding times.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Are pickerel's teeth sharp?
Yes, like other members of the pike family, pickerel have sharp teeth.
Janet White
Oct 23, 2023
Which fish is generally larger, walleye or pickerel?
Walleye is generally larger than pickerel.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 23, 2023
Are walleye's eyes useful for a specific purpose?
Yes, the reflective nature of walleye's eyes helps them see in low light or murky water conditions.
Harlon Moss
Oct 23, 2023
Where is walleye predominantly found?
Walleye is native to North America and can be found in various freshwater bodies across the continent.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 23, 2023
Are there multiple species of pickerel?
Yes, there are several species of pickerel, including the chain pickerel and the grass pickerel.
Harlon Moss
Oct 23, 2023
Do both walleye and pickerel live in freshwater habitats?
Yes, both walleye and pickerel are freshwater fish species.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
Are pickerel aggressive predators?
Yes, pickerel are known for their aggressive predatory behavior.
Janet White
Oct 23, 2023
Is the chain pickerel the only type of pickerel?
No, apart from the chain pickerel, there are other species like the grass pickerel.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 23, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
