Gizzard Shad
Gizzard Shad are native to Arkansas and found throughout the Mississippi, Atlantic, and Gulf Slope drainages. These are primarily forage fish rather than target species.
Scientific Name: Dorosoma cepedianum
- Deep-bodied herring family fish characterized by their blunt snout, small toothless mouth, long trailing dorsal ray, and closely packed gill rakers (over 400).
- They have 'eyelids' of fat-storing adipose tissue and can reach maximum lengths of 52 cm.
- In Arkansas waters, they're distinguished from Threadfin Shad by their blunt snout, subterminal lower jaw, dusky fin color, and 52-70 lateral scales.
Fishing in Arkansas
Lake Conway
Arkansas River
Fourche LaFave River
Bayou Meto
Greers Ferry Lake
Lake Dardanelle
Petit Jean River
Little Red River
Saline River
Lake Ouachita
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Prefer shallow lakes with muddy bottoms and relatively high turbidity, commonly inhabiting backwaters, oxbow lakes, and main river channels.
Key Locations
- Arkansas River system, White River, Lake Dardanelle, Bull Shoals, Greers Ferry, and Beaver Lake.
- In Arkansas waters like Lake Dardanelle, they form part of a thriving forage base supporting larger sportfish populations.
Specific Spots
- Target shallow areas (0-4 meters deep) in back bays of lakes and reservoirs, focusing on areas with muddy bottoms and vegetation.
- Focus on areas where algae and plankton concentrate, such as protected coves with minimal current.
- They spawn in shallow areas with hard bottoms, riprap, or vegetation.
Gizzard Shad FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
When is the best time to fish for Gizzard Shad in Arkansas?
During spawning periods (mid-April through May in Southern reservoirs), avoid targeting them as they focus on reproduction rather than feeding. They're easier to locate during cooler months when they school more tightly.
How do you catch Gizzard Shad in Arkansas?
Cast netting in shallow backwater bays and coves with deep channels leading into them. Cast netting is the most efficient collection method when they school in large numbers.
What do Gizzard Shad eat?
Omnivorous filter feeders that undergo diet shifts based on population density - young feed primarily on phytoplankton and zooplankton, while adults consume detritus, algae, and suspended organic matter.
Where do Gizzard Shad live in Arkansas?
Prefer shallow lakes with muddy bottoms and relatively high turbidity, commonly inhabiting backwaters, oxbow lakes, and main river channels.
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