Species guide
How to catch Blueback shad
Alosa aestivalis
The Blueback shad is a migratory fish found along the Atlantic coast of North America. It lives in both fresh and saltwater and feeds opportunistically on small aquatic animals. This species is not typically targeted as a game fish.
Where they live
Blueback shad inhabit freshwater, brackish, and saltwater environments along the Atlantic coast of North America. They migrate seasonally, approaching shorelines in late spring and possibly wintering near the bottom offshore between 5 and 55 meters deep.
Typical size
Up to about 40 cm
What they eat
- small crustaceans
- larvae
- juvenile aquatic insects
- amphipods
- shrimp-like animals
- small jellyfish
Best baits
- small shrimp
- marine worms
- minnows
- insect larvae
Best lures
- small soft plastics
- light spoons
- tiny jigs
- small spinners
How to fish for them
- light spinning tackle
- casting small lures near shore
- bait fishing with natural baits
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