American Shad: Alosa sapidissima

Appearance:

• Color of back green or greenish blue with silvery sides, white underneath (colors darken when fish enters fresh water to spawn)
• Belly with scutes forming distinct keel with one or more dark spots in a row behind operculum
• The lower jaw has a pointed tip that fits into v-shaped notch in upper jaw

Habitat:

American shad are typically found offshore except during late winter spawning run into east coast rivers, notably the St. Johns River.

Behavior:

Anadromous species, coming into fresh water to spawn; young remain in fresh water to length of 2 to 4 inches, then move out to sea.

State Record:

This species is not currently eligible for a state record.

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Plankton feeders, but will strike small, bright spoons or flies. Their roe (as many as 30,000 in a single female) is prized and their flesh is full of fork bones.

Additional Information:

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles