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Scientific Name
Dorosoma cepedianum
Other Names
Hickory shad, Skipjack, Shad, and Herring
Description
Gizzard shad are abundant in most of Mississippi’s rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs. Spawning takes place from mid-April to late June when water temperatures are 60ºF to 70ºF. They feed almost entirely on organic detritus but will also pick through mud and organic matter on the bottom for small food. Plant material is also consumed by gizzard shad and includes various kinds of algae that they filter from the water with long, closely spaced gill rakers. They grind up this material with a muscular gizzard.
Habits and Habitat
Gizzard shad are abundant in most of Mississippi’s rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs. Spawning takes place from mid-April to late June when water temperatures are 60ºF to 70ºF. They feed almost entirely on organic detritus but will also pick through mud and organic matter on the bottom for small food. Plant material is also consumed by gizzard shad and includes various kinds of algae that they filter from the water with long, closely spaced gill rakers. They grind up this material with a muscular gizzard.
State Record
No record exists at this time.
Fishing Fact
Gizzard shad are often used as bait for catfish. Because they are difficult to keep alive, they are used mostly as cutbait. Gizzard shad are most similar to threadfin shad, but unlike threadfin shad, have a subterminal mouth (upper jaw projects well beyond the lower jaw).