Other names: Fall herring, Mattowacca, Freshwater taylor, Bonejack
The hickory shad is a migratory fish found along the Atlantic coast of North America. Recognized by its silvery body and dark back, it migrates from coastal waters to freshwater rivers to spawn. This species is important in local fisheries and has a notable presence in estuarine and riverine ecosystems.
Other names
Fall herring, Mattowacca, Freshwater taylor, Bonejack
Length
~36" (max 61)
Weight
~0.5" (max 1)
Water
Fresh, brackish, salt
Depth
2 ft
EXO Jigs
Flies
Gotcha Plug
Minnows
Rooster Tail Spinner
Squid
Steez Spinnerbaits
WormsAlways open
6
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No
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Found in coastal waters, estuaries, and freshwater rivers
Prefers areas with sandy or gravel substrates
Feeds on small fish, squid, crustaceans, and fish eggs
Juveniles inhabit nursery areas in estuaries before moving to open waters
Spawning occurs in tidal freshwater during late spring and early summer
Females lay numerous eggs in freshwater habitats
After hatching, juveniles migrate to estuaries, growing before moving to the sea
Adults return to rivers annually to spawn, completing their migratory cycle
