Gizzard Shad

Dorosoma cepedianum

Whether swimming in the ocean in schools or squeezed into a tin can at the deli, most herrings seem to come in groups. These compressed, silvery fishes have a single dorsal fin and no spines. Most herrings live in the ocean, but a few can be seen in North American fresh waters. Some species like the American Shad migrate into freshwater streams to spawn. The Gizzard Shad spends most of its time in large schools cruising for food. Gizzard Shad have a special stomach which grinds up plants and small animals it finds in muddy bottoms of lakes and streams.

Look For : A freshwater herring with a deep, silvery, compressed body. Last ray of dorsal fin long and threadlike.

Length : 18".

Habitat : Freshwater lakes and streams.

Range : Atlantic Coast and associated rivers from New York to Florida; Gulf of Mexico; St. Lawrence River; Great Lakes; Mississippi River system.