Alabama Shad
Alabama Shad are an anadromous species that once inhabited Gulf Coast drainages from the Mississippi River east to the Suwannee River in Florida.
In Mississippi, they are found primarily in the Pascagoula River drainage, which represents the largest unimpounded river system in the contiguous United States and contains one of the few remaining populations.
The species is thought to be extirpated from drainages west of the Pascagoula River in Mississippi.
Scientific Name: Alosa alabamae
- These silvery fish grow 12-18 inches long with 55-60 scales in the lateral series, featuring a greenish-blue back and clear fins with slightly darker margins on the dorsal and caudal fins.
Fishing in Mississippi
Pearl River
Yazoo River
Mississippi River
Leaf River
Bouie River
Ross R Barnett Reservoir
Lake Castle
Big Black River
Pelahatchie Creek
Lake Dockery
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Gulf Coast drainages from the Mississippi River east to the Suwannee River in Florida.
- In Mississippi, they are found primarily in the Pascagoula River drainage.
Key Locations
- Pascagoula River drainage.
Specific Spots
- Alabama Shad exhibit distinct habitat preferences based on size - small juveniles use sandbar habitats while larger fish move to open channel and steep bank habitats containing large woody debris.
- Look for them around sandbar areas for smaller fish, and open channels with steep banks containing woody debris for larger specimens.
Alabama Shad FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Alabama Shad in Mississippi?
Small, brightly colored lures would theoretically be effective based on their feeding behavior, as juveniles key in on insects and small prey items. Tiny jigs were used historically by biologists.
When is the best time to fish for Alabama Shad in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, any spawning activity would occur in April when water temperatures reach 65-68°F, and this period should be completely avoided to prevent disturbing the few remaining breeding fish.
How do you catch Alabama Shad in Mississippi?
Historically, when populations were more robust, biologists collected specimens using tiny jigs as their primary method, indicating the fish would strike at small lures despite not actively feeding during spawning runs.
What do Alabama Shad eat?
Juveniles remain in freshwater for 6-8 months, feeding on small fish and invertebrates. Their diet shifts as they grow - fish smaller than 50mm feed primarily on unidentifiable organics and algae, while larger juveniles (50mm+) feed almost exclusively on insects including both terrestrial species like Diptera,...
Where do Alabama Shad live in Mississippi?
Gulf Coast drainages from the Mississippi River east to the Suwannee River in Florida. In Mississippi, they are found primarily in the Pascagoula River drainage.
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