Species guide
How to catch False herring
Harengula clupeola
brackishsaltwaterDorosomatidae
The False herring is a small, schooling fish found in coastal waters and estuaries. It tolerates a wide range of salinity levels and often inhabits sandy beaches. This species feeds selectively on plankton and rarely grows larger than 22 cm.
Where they live
Found in brackish and saltwater environments including estuaries, lagoons, and coastal areas of the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico. Prefers shallow waters up to 50 meters deep and often forms schools near sandy shores.
Typical size
Up to about 23 cm
What they eat
- plankton
Best baits
- small pieces of shrimp
- tiny worms
- plankton imitations
Best lures
- small jigs
- micro spoons
- tiny soft plastics
How to fish for them
- light spinning gear
- casting small lures
- using dip nets for bait
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