Alongside the chain pickerel, it has been predating and outcompeting native species. This is a common occurrence for invasive species of all types.

Thornton Jackson, left, and his 8-year-old son Shane, both of Waldorf, fight to land a chain pickerel during the Heroes on the Water kayaking event Saturday at St. Mary’s River State Park in ...

For the record, a chain pickerel was the winner there too. Janine DePula, of Mercerville, won the "All Other Species," category with a 4-pound, 8-ounce largemouth bass.

In the hierarchy of Esox, the chain pickerel sits squarely at the bottom both literally and figuratively. Compared to their big cousins, the pike and muskie, they don’t get much love despite being ...