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Black and Caspian Sea sprat

Clupeonella cultriventris

Black and Caspian Sea sprat© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Black and Caspian Sea sprat (Clupeonella cultriventris) is a tiny, silvery pelagic fish native to the brackish and freshwater systems of the Black and Caspian seas. Though not a sport‑fishing target, it is often caught for bait or as a snack in local cuisines.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Ehiravidae

Max Size

14.5 cm

Habitat

marine, freshwater, brackish

Depth Range

10-13m

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October)

Best Time

Dawn and dusk

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Black and Caspian Sea sprat

  • Use ultralight spinning gear with 2-4 lb test line to feel the light bites.
  • Target surface waters near river mouths or estuary outlets where sprat schools gather to feed.
  • Employ micro jigs, tiny spoons, or live planktonic bait such as shrimp larvae.
  • Fish during low-light periods (early morning or evening) when the fish rise to the surface.

Top Fishing Locations for Black and Caspian Sea sprat

Sochi Black Sea Coast

Russia
beginner75% Very Common

Coastal waters off Sochi are rich in Black Sea sprat during summer, ideal for light tackle and surf casting.

Best: June-August

Sevastopol Bay

Ukraine
intermediate68% Common

Protected bay waters host dense sprat schools; anglers often use small boats to target them near the harbor entrance.

Best: May-September

Baku Caspian Shoreline

Azerbaijan
beginner80% Very Common

Shallow coastal zones off Baku see abundant sprat in spring, perfect for jigging from piers.

Best: April-June

Astrakhan Delta

Russia
intermediate60% Common

The Volga delta creates nutrient‑rich waters where sprat form massive shoals, accessed by small craft.

Best: May-October

Danube Delta

Romania
intermediate55% Common

Brackish channels of the Danube Delta support seasonal sprat runs, best fished from kayaks or light boats.

Best: June-September

Turkmenbashi Coast

Turkmenistan
expert45% Occasional

Remote Caspian stretches near Turkmenbashi hold high sprat densities, reachable only by guided offshore trips.

Best: July-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Black and Caspian Sea sprat

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 1.5-2 m, fast action
Line2-4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs, tiny spoons, or feathered surface lures
TechniqueLight jigging or surface trolling near estuary mouths

Best bait: Live plankton or small shrimp; N/A if using lures