RIVER FISH · Ocean-to-river migrant
American shad
Alosa sapidissima
A silvery, deep-bodied migratory fish with a dark shoulder spot, often followed by smaller spots along its side.
Explore related rivers & gauges ↓
Meet the fish
- Habitat
- Ocean waters for much of adult life, then freshwater rivers for spawning.
- On the menu
- Juveniles eat zooplankton and insect larvae. Adults feed on shrimp and other small organisms at sea.
- Size context
- Virginia DWR reports 13–22 inches commonly in Virginia waters; adult size varies by sex and population.
- Range & local context
- Native along the Atlantic coast from southeastern Canada to Florida; introduced populations also occur on the Pacific coast.
Living with the river
Water & habitat
Connected river habitat and water quality matter to migration. Dams can restrict passage; one gauge cannot establish whether a migration route is open.
Seasonal life
Adults return to natal rivers to spawn. Runs occur at different times from southern to northern rivers; eggs are released into flowing water rather than a guarded nest.
Our river-themed pairing for a fish that returns to freshwater. Not a song about shad.
Spotify loads only when you choose. No autoplay.
Before you go
Some fisheries are closed or tightly restricted. A species appearing here is not permission to target or keep it; consult current local agency guidance.
Use the linked agencies and the relevant river guide for current regulations, closures and consumption advisories. A species profile is not a fishing license or a statement that harvest is allowed.
Editorial review: . Regional size examples are labeled; maximum lengths are not typical sizes.
More river fish
Keep exploring species connected to the same river-guide network.