If you’re trying to learn clawhammer banjo yes, you can play without picks.
If you’re trying to learn 3 finger bluegrass style banjo picks are absolutely necessary.
You simply won’t be able to get the speed, consistency and tone from your fingernails. They’re not at the right angle, made out of the correct material or the right length.
It may feel like you’re taking a shortcut skipping learning how to use the picks but you’re just building habits that you’ll have to unlearn later on.
The picks feel weird for everyone at first but it’s critical you learn how to use them if you want to play bluegrass style.
If you have any other questions let me know. Keep picking.
Best,
Mike
