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Alewife

Alewife

Alewife are small herring-like fish that exist in three forms in Pennsylvania: native anadromous populations in Atlantic drainage rivers like the Delaware and Susquehanna systems, introduced populations in Lake Erie, and isolated landlocked populations in various lakes and reservoirs.

Scientific Name: Alosa pseudoharengus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Small herring-like fish typically 8-15 inches long with silvery sides, a grayish-green back, and a distinctive dark spot behind the gill cover.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Native anadromous populations in Atlantic drainage rivers, introduced populations in Lake Erie, and isolated landlocked populations in various lakes and reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • Lake Arthur near Pittsburgh, Youghiogheny Reservoir, Yellow Creek Lake, Pymatuning Reservoir, Conowingo Reservoir, Lake Erie tributaries, Delaware and Susquehanna systems.

Specific Spots

  • Areas where zooplankton concentrate, typically near creek mouths or shallow bays.
  • Fish at varying depths from 10-30 feet.
  • In nutrient-rich waters, focus on areas where zooplankton concentrate.

Alewife FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Alewife in Pennsylvania?

Small spoons, tiny jigs, or even bare hooks can be effective when fish are concentrated. Tiny jigs or bare hooks on sabiki rigs.

When is the best time to fish for Alewife in Pennsylvania?

Fish during late spring through fall. Avoid fishing during spawning periods (late March through April) when they move to shallow tributary areas.

How do you catch Alewife in Pennsylvania?

Use small multi-hook sabiki rigs. Fish at varying depths from 10-30 feet until you locate schools, as they move vertically throughout the day following food sources. Focus on areas where zooplankton concentrate, typically near creek mouths or shallow bays in early morning or evening.

What do Alewife eat?

Planktivores, feeding primarily on zooplankton including copepods, cladocerans, and small crustaceans. They also consume larger invertebrates like amphipods, mysid shrimp, and occasionally small fish, fish e.g.gs, and larvae. They're filter feeders and particulate feeders.

Where do Alewife live in Pennsylvania?

Native anadromous populations in Atlantic drainage rivers, introduced populations in Lake Erie, and isolated landlocked populations in various lakes and reservoirs.

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