Fishing For Hickory Shad
The Alosa Mediocre is more popularly known as the Hickory Shad. These fish are not terribly big but the fight they put up is becoming known from coast to coast, even resulting in articles in popular sport fishing magazines. They are a recreational fish, and because of the fight they put up, they are becoming far more popular among anglers.
The Hickory Shad has an unusual jaw-line – defined by almost the appearance of an under-bite. The lower part of the jaw typically curves upwards – toward the head of the fish. The body is an unusual gray-green color and they almost always have a dark spot above the head. Another characteristic that singles them out is the shiny silver marking that runs down the side and flows to the belly of the Alosa Mediocre.
The diet of the Hickory Shad is comprised of crustaceans, squid, the occasional fish egg and small fish. They spawn typically during the February to June periods in moderate temperature waters. The female is capable of spawning multiple times before she dies, and once they lay their eggs, they generally float to the sea bottom after they harden. The fish from these eggs usually mature between the ages of two and four. Spawning is done in bays during migration and the young fish swim out to the ocean once they hatch.
Although the western Atlantic coast is where they are typically found, you can find them anywhere between Maine and Florida. Chesapeake Bay is a favorite spawning ground for the Hickory Shad. Unfortunately, not much research has been done on their movements once they have moved into the open ocean waters, though they are monitored heavily during migration periods.
Catching Hickory Chad is generally done using the challenging fly fishing method. Spawning season is the time you are most likely to have success finding this fish since they are far more visible and active. Small spoons, flies and artificial lures have all proven to be effective bait when properly used. They are most abundant in waters that are in the 55 degree range, though it’s not unusual to find them at other temperatures. Most anglers will use the same fishing gear they would use for light trout or large-mouth bass though these fish definitely have far more fight than either and the gear must be able to accommodate that fight. Hickory Shad are definitely fun to fish for, and most anglers really appreciate the large fight put up by this small fish.
When you are out saltwater fishing it is important to make sure you have the right supplies. Some of the most popular brands include Shimano Reels, Penn Saltwater Reels, and Daiwa Fishing Reels.
