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Blueback Herring

Blueback Herring

Blueback Herring in Pennsylvania are anadromous fish that have been documented in the Susquehanna River system within the Chesapeake Bay basin, though their presence is limited.

In Pennsylvania's inland waters, they function as important forage for larger predators like striped bass and other gamefish, but populations have experienced drastic declines throughout their range due to habitat loss from dams, water quality issues, and overfishing pressure.

Scientific Name: Alosa aestivalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silvery bodies, deep bluish-green backs, and a distinctive black to dusky peritoneum (abdominal lining).
  • They reach up to 40 cm (16 inches) and live up to 8 years.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Documented in the Susquehanna River system within the Chesapeake Bay basin, though their presence is limited.

Key Locations

  • Susquehanna River system within the Chesapeake Bay basin.

Specific Spots

  • Anglers should focus on points, flats, and areas with hard bottoms where these herring would naturally congregate, particularly during their spring migration periods when water temperatures are warming.

Blueback Herring FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Blueback Herring in Pennsylvania?

When present in other water systems, they respond best to small, fast-moving lures that mimic their natural prey. Effective techniques would include using small spinners, spoons, or soft plastics in the 2-4 inch range with chrome, white, or pearl colors that match their silvery appearance.

When is the best time to fish for Blueback Herring in Pennsylvania?

Most active during spring and early summer when water temperatures reach the upper 60s to low 70s, typically moving in schools during their migration periods. Early morning and late evening provide the best opportunities when they're actively feeding near the surface.

How do you catch Blueback Herring in Pennsylvania?

When present in other water systems, effective techniques would include straight-line movements rather than erratic action, so steady retrieves work better than stop-and-go presentations. In deeper waters, vertical jigging with small spoons can be effective.

What do Blueback Herring eat?

Primarily planktivorous, feeding on zooplankton, copepods, small crustaceans, rotifers (particularly Keratella genus), water fleas (Bosmina), and occasionally small fish and insect e.g.gs. Juveniles feed heavily on chironomid larvae and gastropods.

Where do Blueback Herring live in Pennsylvania?

Documented in the Susquehanna River system within the Chesapeake Bay basin, though their presence is limited.

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