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Hickory Shad

Hickory Shad

Hickory Shad (Alosa mediocris) in Florida are anadromous fish that live most of their adult lives in the Atlantic Ocean but migrate into freshwater rivers to spawn. Florida represents the southernmost extent of their range, with the St.

Johns River being the primary spawning destination.

Scientific Name: Alosa mediocris

Physical Characteristics:
  • Smaller than their northern counterparts, averaging 1-2 pounds with males reaching about 34cm (13 inches) and females about 37cm (15 inches) fork length.
  • Distinguished from American Shad by their protruding lower jaw that extends beyond the upper jaw.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Anadromous fish living in Atlantic Ocean but migrating to freshwater rivers to spawn.
  • Florida represents the southernmost extent of their range.
  • The St.
  • Johns River population is considered the southernmost run on the East Coast.

Key Locations

  • St.
  • Johns River system, particularly in areas known as 'Shad Alley' between Mullet Lake Park and Puzzle Lake, as well as the Wekiva and Econlockhatchee rivers.
  • Also St.
  • Mary's rivers in northeast Florida.
  • C.S.
  • Lee Park and Mullet Lake Park areas.

Specific Spots

  • Deep pools and areas with moderate current, lower water column between 5-20 feet deep.
  • Prefer spawning in freshwater reaches with moderate current over sand and gravel substrates.

Hickory Shad FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Hickory Shad in Florida?

Small Clouser Minnows, Crazy Charlies, traditional shad patterns with marabou tails and sparkle braid bodies (sizes 4-8), and small minnow patterns from 3/8-inch to 3-inch. Key colors are bright hues like pink, orange, chartreuse, and combinations over white.

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

Prime season runs from late December through early March, with peak action typically occurring when water temperatures are between 52-58°F. They begin entering the St. Johns River system as early as December when water temperatures cool, remaining through March.

How do you catch Hickory Shad in Florida?

Cast upstream and allow lures to sink as they drift downstream with occasional light jigging. Trolling at 1.5-2.0 mph against current with small tandem jigs has proven effective.

What do Hickory Shad eat?

Highly piscivorous, with fish comprising over 97% of their diet by weight in Florida waters, though they also consume crustaceans and squid.

Where do Hickory Shad live in Florida?

Anadromous fish living in Atlantic Ocean but migrating to freshwater rivers to spawn. Florida represents the southernmost extent of their range. The St. Johns River population is considered the southernmost run on the East Coast.

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