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American gizzard shad

Dorosoma cepedianum

American gizzard shad© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The American gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum) is a silvery, laterally compressed fish common in North American rivers, reservoirs, and coastal brackish waters. It is popular among anglers for its abundant schools and as a lively baitfish, making it a fun target for light‑tackle fishing.

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Basic Information

Family

Dorosomatidae

Max Size

57 cm

Max Weight

2 kg

Habitat

marine, freshwater, brackish

Depth Range

0-33m

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Spring and early summer during spawning runs, also fall in many regions

Best Time

Dawn and dusk

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for American gizzard shad

  • Use light to medium rods with a fast action for quick hook sets
  • Tackle with small jigs, soft plastic minnows, or tiny spoons near the surface or just below
  • Fish in shallow, slow‑moving water or near structure where schools congregate
  • Trolling a slow‑moving lure or drifting a baited line can trigger strikes during spawning periods

Top Fishing Locations for American gizzard shad

Lake Okeechobee

USA
intermediate80% Very Common

Large shallow lake in southern Florida with abundant shad during spring spawning runs

Best: April-June

Mississippi River (New Orleans Section)

USA
expert70% Very Common

Riverine stretch near New Orleans where gizzard shad congregate in the main channel during peak temperatures

Best: May-July

Galveston Gulf Coast

USA
intermediate65% Common

Coastal bays and estuaries off Galveston provide high shad densities in warm spring waters

Best: April-May

Lake Pontchartrain

USA
beginner75% Very Common

Brackish lake north of New Orleans known for large schools of gizzard shad in spring

Best: May-June

Lake Travis

USA
beginner50% Common

Reservoir on the Colorado River in Texas Hill Country with productive shad fisheries during warm months

Best: April-June

Tennessee River (Nashville Reach)

USA
intermediate45% Occasional

Midsection of the Tennessee River where shad migrate upstream during spring runoff

Best: May-June

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for American gizzard shad

Recommended Equipment

Rod6‑8 ft light to medium fast‑action rod
Line4‑8 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall jigs, soft plastic minnows, tiny spoons, or micro crankbaits
TechniqueCasting, trolling, or drift fishing targeting schools near the surface

Best bait: Live minnows, nightcrawlers, or corn kernels