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Alabama Shad

Alabama Shad

Alabama Shad (Alosa alabamae) are anadromous fish that inhabit Florida's Gulf Coast river systems, representing the only anadromous clupeid species in the Gulf of Mexico region.

Scientific Name: Alosa alabamae

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silvery, elongated fish typically measure 12-18 inches and weigh up to 4 pounds, with distinctive greenish-blue backs and clear fins with darker margins.
  • They can be identified by 55-60 lateral scales, a distinct notch in the upper jaw, and 42-48 gill rakers on the lower limb of the first gill arch.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Florida's Gulf Coast river systems.
  • The Apalachicola River downstream of Jim Woodruff Dam represents their primary stronghold.
  • These fish spend most of their adult lives in saltwater but migrate into freshwater rivers to spawn.

Key Locations

  • Apalachicola River system (which holds the largest remaining population), Choctawhatchee River, Suwannee River, and historically in smaller numbers in other Gulf Coast drainages.
  • The Apalachicola River below Jim Woodruff Dam was the primary fishing location.

Specific Spots

  • Areas with moderate current over sand and gravel bottoms.
  • Juvenile Alabama Shad prefer cooler water temperatures and utilize different habitats as they grow, starting in sandbar areas and moving to open channel and steep bank habitats with woody debris.

Alabama Shad FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

When is the best time to fish for Alabama Shad in Florida?

February through May spawning period, with peak spawning occurring in April when water temperatures reach 65-68°F (18-20°C). Water temperatures of 65-68°F triggered the most active periods.

How do you catch Alabama Shad in Florida?

Historically targeted during spring spawning runs from February through April when populations were healthier. Adults don't actively feed during spawning runs, so strikes were out of aggression or territorial behavior rather than feeding.

What do Alabama Shad eat?

Adults typically don't feed during spawning runs, but juveniles in the river systems feed on small fish, aquatic insects (particularly dipterans and ephemeroptera), and invertebrates.

Where do Alabama Shad live in Florida?

Florida's Gulf Coast river systems. The Apalachicola River downstream of Jim Woodruff Dam represents their primary stronghold. These fish spend most of their adult lives in saltwater but migrate into freshwater rivers to spawn.

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