What Do Canadians Call Walleye?

In Canada, especially within English-speaking regions, the fish known as walleye in the United States is commonly referred to as pickerel. This distinct nomenclature applies to the same species, Sander vitreus.

Understanding the Terminology

While the scientific community recognizes the species as Sander vitreus, popular naming conventions vary geographically. The term "pickerel" has become deeply ingrained in Canadian angling and culinary culture when referring to this popular freshwater fish.

• Canadian Usage: Across much of Canada, particularly provinces like Ontario, Manitoba, and Quebec, anglers and consumers alike will use "pickerel" to describe what is scientifically a walleye.
• United States Usage: South of the border, the same fish is almost exclusively known as "walleye."

This regional difference can sometimes lead to confusion, as "pickerel" is also the common name for entirely different species of fish, such as the chain pickerel (Esox niger) or grass pickerel (Esox americanus vermiculatus), which belong to the pike family (Esocidae). However, in the Canadian context, when someone refers to "pickerel," they are almost invariably talking about the walleye (Sander vitreus).

Why the Different Names?

The reasons behind this naming divergence are largely historical and cultural. Early European settlers often applied familiar names from their homelands to new species they encountered, leading to regional variations that persisted over time. Despite the potential for confusion with true pickerel species, the name "pickerel" for Sander vitreus has become a well-established part of Canadian fishing lexicon.

Regional Naming Comparison

To illustrate the primary difference in common names for Sander vitreus:

This distinction highlights how local traditions and historical usage can influence the popular names of common fish species. For more insights into this naming debate, you can explore resources from organizations dedicated to aquatic conservation, such as Watersheds Canada, which often address these regional terminologies.