Other names: Winnipeg goldeye, Western goldeye, Yellow herring, Toothed herring, Shad mooneye
The goldeye, Hiodon alosoides, is a freshwater fish native to North America, notable for its large, reflective eyes. It inhabits turbid rivers, lakes, and impoundments, and is prized by anglers for its nocturnal feeding habits and lively fight when hooked.
Other names
Winnipeg goldeye, Western goldeye, Yellow herring, Toothed herring, Shad mooneye
Length
~38" (max 51)
Weight
~1" (max 2)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
10-27° F
Depth
40 ft
Grasshoppers
Mepps Comet
Minnows
Muddler Minnow
Nightcrawlers
WormsOpen from May 5, to March 31 (Southern Zone); Open from May 15, to March 31 (Central Zone); Open from May 25, to April 15 (Northern Zone)
8
No
Goldeyes are found in deep, open pools and channels of lowland rivers
They thrive in turbid, slow-moving waters, including small lakes and reservoirs
This species feeds on surface and aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans
They are primarily nocturnal and migrate upstream in spring to spawn
Spawning occurs in spring, with adults migrating upstream to suitable spawning grounds
Eggs are laid in clusters and adhere to the substrate
Juveniles remain in shallow waters, feeding on small invertebrates
Adults move downstream in fall and are often preyed upon by birds and other fish
